What Do Music Managers Do?

The music industry is brimming with talent, but making a mark in the competitive space requires more than just talent. That's where music managers step in. They play a crucial role in shaping an artist's career, handling everything from business negotiations to tour management. But, what do music managers actually do? Let's dive into their key responsibilities and how they contribute to an artist's success.

Role of Music Managers

Music managers, also known as artist managers, are like the backbone of an artist's career. They oversee the business aspect, ensuring that the artist can focus on their creative endeavors. A manager's role can be broadly categorized into several functions:

• Business Negotiations: Music managers handle contractual agreements, ensuring the artist gets fair deals from record labels, venues, and other partners.
• Tour Management: Planning and executing tours is a massive undertaking. Managers coordinate with promoters, book venues, and take care of logistics.
• Public Relations: They help in building and maintaining the artist's public image by managing media interactions, social media presence, and public appearances.
• Financial Management: Managers oversee financial matters, including budgeting, accounting, and ensuring timely payments to band members and other stakeholders.
• Career Development: A good manager helps an artist grow strategically by identifying opportunities, aligning with the right collaborators, and planning long-term projects.

How Managers Help in Music Distribution

Distribution is a critical aspect of any artist’s career, ensuring that their music reaches a wide audience. A manager's role in music distribution involves:

• Choosing the Right Platforms: Knowing which digital streaming platforms (DSPs) will best serve the artist’s music is essential. Managers often leverage platforms like SoundOn to distribute music globally.
• Pitching to DSPs: Managers pitch tracks to DSPs to get them featured on curated playlists, which can exponentially increase streams and exposure.
• Marketing and Promotion: They devise marketing strategies and promotional campaigns to boost the artist’s presence on streaming platforms.

Working with Record Labels

One of the significant responsibilities of a music manager is navigating the relationship with record labels. This includes:

• Securing Record Deals: Negotiating deals that provide the artist with the best terms, financial support, and creative control.
• Album Production: Overseeing the production process, from selecting producers to finalizing tracks.
• Release Strategy: Planning the release of singles and albums to maximize impact and sales.

Enhancing Public Relations and Media Presence

Building a strong public image is crucial for an artist's brand. Managers enhance PR and media presence by:

• Media Training: Preparing artists for interviews and public appearances.
• Social Media Management: Curating content for social media platforms to engage with fans and build a strong online presence.
• Press Releases and Media Kits: Creating and distributing press releases and media kits to keep the media informed about new projects and events.

Financial Oversight

Managing finances efficiently is another critical responsibility. This includes:

• Budget Planning: Developing budgets for tours, recordings, and other projects.
• Royalties Management: Ensuring that the artist is paid accurately and on time for their work.
• Investment Advice: Providing guidance on financial investments for long-term stability.

Long-Term Career Development

Beyond day-to-day operations, music managers are instrumental in long-term career development. They:

• Identify Opportunities: Recognize and pursue opportunities for growth, such as collaborations, brand endorsements, and expansion into new markets.
• Strategic Planning: Develop strategic plans for career milestones, ensuring steady progress and sustained relevance.
• Mentorship: Provide advice and mentorship, helping artists navigate the challenges of the music industry.

Building a Strong Team

To achieve success, managers often build a robust team around the artist, including:

• Booking Agents: Professionals specializing in securing live performance opportunities.
• Publicists: Experts in media relations and publicity.
• Legal Advisors: Lawyers who handle legal matters and protect the artist’s interests.
• Tour Managers: Specialists who handle the logistical aspects of touring.

Conclusion

Music managers wear many hats, playing a pivotal role in the success of an artist. From business negotiations and financial management to tour planning and public relations, they ensure that the artist can focus on what they do best—creating music. For artists looking to take their careers to the next level, having a dedicated music manager can make all the difference. Platforms like SoundOn can also provide essential tools for distribution and promotion, complementing the work of a manager and helping artists reach new heights.