What Do Music Artist Managers Do?

Behind every successful music artist, there's usually an excellent music artist manager. These professionals play a crucial role in shaping the careers of musicians, helping them navigate the complex music industry and streaming music services. But what exactly do music artist managers do? In this article, we'll explore their multiple roles and responsibilities, and how they contribute to an artist's success in the digital age.

The Role of Music Artist Managers

Music artist managers wear many hats. Their main responsibility is to oversee an artist's career, ensuring that they make the right decisions to build and maintain a successful and lasting presence in the music industry. Here are some of the key functions of a music artist manager:

1. Strategic Planning

A music artist manager works closely with the artist to develop a strategic plan for their career. This includes identifying long-term goals, making plans for album releases, coordinating tours, and finding ways to grow their fan base. The strategic plan forms the blueprint for the artist's career, guiding their decisions and actions along the way.

2. Marketing and Promotion

Effective marketing and promotion are essential for an artist's success, and music artist managers lead these efforts. They create marketing campaigns, arrange for media coverage, and plan promotional events to increase the artist's visibility. In the age of streaming music services, managers also focus on digital marketing strategies, using platforms like TikTok, SoundOn, and other social media to reach new audiences and engage with fans.

3. Negotiating Contracts

Negotiating contracts is a critical aspect of a music artist manager's job. They handle agreements with record labels, publishers, and promoters to ensure the best possible terms for the artist. Whether it's a recording contract, a publishing deal, or a tour agreement, the manager's negotiation skills can significantly impact an artist's income and opportunities.

4. Financial Management

Music artist managers often oversee the financial aspects of an artist's career. They handle budgeting, accounting, and financial planning, ensuring that the artist's earnings are managed effectively. This includes managing income from album sales, merchandise, tours, and streaming music services. A good manager helps the artist make sound financial decisions and plan for a sustainable future.

5. Networking and Relationship Building

Networking is a major part of a music artist manager's job. They establish and maintain relationships with key industry players, including record labels, promoters, booking agents, and media outlets. These connections are vital for securing opportunities for the artist, from album deals to concert bookings. A manager's network can make all the difference in an artist's career trajectory.

6. Crisis Management

From time to time, artists may face crises, whether it's a public relations issue, a legal problem, or a personal matter. Music artist managers act as intermediaries, helping to navigate these crises and minimize potential damage. Their role in crisis management is crucial for maintaining the artist's public image and personal well-being.

Navigating Streaming Music Services

In today's music industry, streaming music services play a central role in an artist's success. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music are where fans discover and listen to music. Music artist managers help artists make the most of these services by implementing tailored strategies for music distribution and promotion.

1. Playlist Pitching

Getting a song included on popular playlists is one of the best ways to increase an artist's streams and reach new listeners. Music artist managers pitch tracks to digital service provider (DSP) curators, providing them with key information to include the track on curated playlists. This can significantly boost the artist's visibility and audience growth.

2. Data Analysis

Streaming music services provide a wealth of data on listener behavior, and music artist managers use this information to inform their strategies. By analyzing streaming data, managers can identify which songs are resonating with audiences, where the artist's fan base is located, and how to tailor marketing efforts to specific demographics.

3. Monetizing Streams

Music artist managers ensure that artists are maximizing their income from streaming music services. This includes managing royalties, distribution deals, and exploring additional revenue streams, such as sync licensing for film and television. By effectively monetizing streams, managers help artists achieve financial success and sustainability.

4. Social Media Integration

Successful music artist managers integrate social media with streaming services to create comprehensive promotional campaigns. Platforms like TikTok, SoundOn, Instagram, and YouTube are leveraged to engage with fans, share new releases, and drive streaming numbers. A cohesive social media strategy enhances an artist's online presence and strengthens their brand.

Choosing the Right Music Distribution Platform

For artists looking to distribute their music on streaming services, choosing the right music distribution platform is essential. Platforms like SoundOn offer comprehensive solutions, covering everything from distribution to marketing support. By registering as a SoundOn artist, musicians get access to global distribution services, including exclusive partners like CapCut.

Register as a SoundOn artist to start building your music career today!

Conclusion

Music artist managers are indispensable in the music industry, providing the expertise and support that artists need to succeed. From strategic planning and promotion to navigating streaming music services, they play a multifaceted role in an artist's career. If you're an artist aiming to reach new heights, having a proficient music artist manager by your side can make all the difference. The right manager, coupled with effective use of platforms like SoundOn, ensures that your music reaches the widest possible audience and achieves lasting success.