There comes a time in many musicians' lives where they feel they need management. Remember, not only signed artists feel they need management, sometimes people in the independent music field feel this way as well. A manager is someone who, in a nutshell, runs the business side of the artist's career in the music industry.
An artist or band manager will play many roles. One role they fill is handling all the music contacts. These music contacts include club owners, agents, labels, A&R, promoters and many other professionals in the music industry. The manager may also handle marketing, promoting, tours, budgeting and booking shows. A manager may have to wear many hats so it is important to pick someone who is reliable and trustworthy.
When searching for a manager, there are many questions you should ask yourself before settling on one particular person.
1.First, does this manager typically handle your genre or field of music? If you are an Indie artist, then make sure this manager is prepared to deal with the field of independent music. Are they more into hip hop while you have a more alternative rock feel? It is important to pick a manager that specializes in your genre.
2.Trust your instincts and ask yourself how trustworthy they feel after meeting with them. Are they just tooting their own horn or are they the real deal?
3.How are their references? Ask or call around to other music contacts to see what they say. Hearsay is important in the music industry, believe it or not.
4.How experienced are they? If they are just beginning their career then how well connected are they? But then again, they may put more effort into your band if they have something to prove. Make a list of the pros and cons of each.
5.Do you know anyone else that has worked with them? Find out how ethical they are. You don't want to butt heads with your manager over ethics in the music industry.
6.What style of management are they? Are they go-getters or laid back? Talk to other artists who have worked with them, if possible.
7.Keep in mind that managers usually work for a percentage of what you make. Try to avoid a manager that asks for a salary.
Having a valued and honest relationship with your manager is crucial. You want to be on the same page as your manager whether you do independent music or are signed. Make sure your manager is making the proper music contacts and truly believes in you. After all, you don't want to work with, for or beside someone who doesn't have your best interests in mind.
Author Resource:-
Owner of Platinum Millennium publishing, former record label owner & national music industry seminar speaker/panelist. Author/creator of best-selling music biz books, courses, audio products & "How to" resources that helped 1000s. Go to http://www.TheIndustryYellowPages.com for more info on music contacts, music industry & independent music.
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