What Do Music Managers Do?

Ever wondered what role music managers play in an artist’s career? How about the process of selling your music on platforms like Apple Music? In this in-depth article, we provide some clarity on these topics and offer valuable insights into the music distribution industry.

The Multifaceted Role of Music Managers

A music manager, often referred to as an artist manager, plays a crucial role in an artist’s career. They are responsible for several key tasks that help shape and propel an artist’s career forward. Here are some of the primary responsibilities:

1. Career Planning and Strategy

Music managers work closely with artists to develop a comprehensive career plan and strategy. This includes setting long-term goals, determining the best opportunities for visibility, and crafting a timeline for album releases, tours, and other significant milestones.

2. Negotiating Contracts

Managers often handle contract negotiations with record labels, booking agents, and other stakeholders. They ensure that the artist gets fair terms and favorable conditions in all dealings.

3. Marketing and Promotion

Effective marketing and promotion are essential for an artist’s success. Music managers devise and execute promotional campaigns across various platforms, including social media, radio, television, and print media. They also work on securing interviews and public appearances for the artist.

4. Financial Management

Another significant responsibility of a music manager is overseeing the artist’s finances. They handle budgeting, manage expenses, and ensure timely payments for services rendered. They might also collaborate with accountants and financial advisors to keep the artist’s financial health in check.

5. Tour Management

Touring can be a complex endeavor, and music managers play a crucial role in organizing and managing tours. This includes booking venues, arranging travel, and ensuring that the tour schedule runs smoothly.

6. Building Industry Relationships

Music managers often have an extensive network within the industry. They use these relationships to open doors for their artists, securing collaborations, sponsorships, and other valuable opportunities.

Selling Your Song on Apple Music

One of the key steps for any artist looking to distribute their music widely is getting it on major streaming platforms like Apple Music. Here is how you can achieve this:

1. Choose a Music Distribution Service

Platforms like SoundOn, Tunecore, Distrokid, and others provide music distribution services. These services will help you get your music onto platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, and others.

2. Prepare Your Music

Ensure that your music files are of high quality and properly formatted. Additionally, prepare your album artwork, artist bio, and other essential metadata that will be needed during the submission process.

3. Upload and Distribute

Using the distribution service you choose, upload your tracks and related information. Select the platforms you want to distribute your music to, such as Apple Music. Pay any necessary fees and complete the submission process.

4. Promote Your Song

Once your song is live on Apple Music, promotion is critical. Leverage social media, email marketing, and collaborations to get your song heard. Engage your fans and encourage them to share your music.

5. Track Your Performance

Monitor your song’s performance using analytics provided by your distribution service. Pay attention to metrics like streams, downloads, and user engagement to understand how well your song is doing.

Conclusion

Music managers play an essential role in an artist’s career, handling everything from career planning to financial management and marketing. Additionally, selling your song on platforms like Apple Music is a crucial step in reaching a broader audience. With the right managers and distribution strategies, artists can achieve significant success in the ever-evolving music industry.