Music Manager
A professional who guides and oversees an artist's career development and business affairs.
Definition
Music managers serve as artists' primary business partners, handling career strategy, deal negotiation, team coordination, and day-to-day operations. They typically earn 15-20% of artist income in exchange for guidance, relationships, and round-the-clock support.
Managers coordinate between labels, agents, publicists, lawyers, and business managers while protecting artist interests and identifying opportunities. The best managers combine industry knowledge with genuine partnership and artist development vision.
Why It Matters
Strong management can transform artist trajectories, providing strategic direction and industry access that artists can't achieve alone. Poor management wastes opportunities and can damage careers permanently.
Understanding management roles helps artists identify what to seek in partnerships and evaluate potential managers based on track records and fit.
Examples in Practice
A manager's industry relationships secure playlist placements and brand partnerships that accelerate an emerging artist's breakthrough.
Strategic career guidance helps an artist avoid a disadvantageous contract while positioning for better offers after demonstrating independent success.
A manager coordinates a complex touring schedule, balancing revenue maximization with artist health and long-term career sustainability.