So You Want To Be An Artist Manager?

Artist Management…  What is it?  It wasn’t that long ago that the definition of an artist manager was clearly defined and almost anyone could have answered that question.  The reality of an artist manager today, however, is much different.  To simplify what I have researched regarding this subject, back in the day an artist manager was solely concerned with getting record deals and then acting as a liaison between the band and the label, but nowadays an artist must act as a jack-of-all-trades.  Their new objective is business development.  This means building a brand out of each of the acts they represent and developing brand equity with each.

The Artist Management Resource website lists, “The Music Manager, The Business Manager, The Road Manager, The Tour Manager, and The Production Manager” as titles given to music management representatives.  Each of these has distinctive and separate responsibilities, which help ensure the success of an artist, but more and more these days there is often only one person who handles all of this responsibility.  There are positives to this, because with only one manager handling all of these duties, that means larger commissions without splits, but it also means a lot more work and less delegation.

I know many people think they would like to live the glamorous life of an artist manager.  I mean what’s not to like about a career where you spend your time with some of the most famous people, attending the best parties, making lots of money, and living a lifestyle most people would kill for?  Well often times we all hear the saying the grass isn’t always greener on the other side…  There are many challenges an artist manager faces, including but not limited to, massive workloads and less compensation than most would think.  And there is always the possibility the artist doesn’t resign with you after the term of your agreement.

But, if you’re still sitting there wondering how to become an artist manager, I will give you the three steps to successfully prepare for a career in this field.  According to ArtistHouse Music, “Educate yourself, find a mentor, and finally become active as a fledgling artist manager.”  Easy enough right…  Well have fun, work hard, and I wish you the up-most success in your future endeavor.