From Garage To Stardom How To Get A Manager For Your Music

Are you an aspiring musician struggling to find a manager to help you take your career to the next level? Do you feel lost in the music industry, unsure of how to navigate your way through? If so, you’re not alone. Many musicians find themselves in the same position, and it can be a daunting experience. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll show you how to get a manager for your music, step-by-step.

By the end of this article, you can expect to have a clear understanding of how to approach potential managers and what they’re looking for in an artist. You’ll also have a better idea of how to market yourself and your music, as well as the importance of networking in the industry. We’ll provide you with tips and tricks from experienced industry experts, giving you the insider knowledge you need to succeed.

The solution we’re presenting has been tried and tested, with proven results. Our team has worked with countless musicians, helping them find the right manager for their music career. We’ll walk you through the process, providing you with actionable steps to take and practical advice to follow. So, let’s get started and help you take your music career to the next level!

Finding the Right Music Manager: Tips and Tricks

For emerging artists, navigating the music industry can be a daunting task. With so many players in the game, an inexperienced artist is likely to feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to proceed. One crucial aspect of an artist’s success is finding the right music manager. A good manager can help an artist navigate the industry, secure gigs, negotiate contracts and build a brand that will resonate with fans. But the big question is, how does an artist find the right music manager? Here are a few tips and tricks to help emerging artists find the perfect match.

Determine What You Need in a Manager

Before you start searching for a music manager, it’s essential to determine what you need from them. Your needs, goals, and vision should align with your manager’s skill sets, personality, and network. Figuring out your expectations will enable you to choose the right person for the job.

• Define your goals and what you want to achieve: Define what success looks like for you, whether it’s filling up stadiums or selling out concerts. Once you know what you want, you can start looking for a manager who has a track record of achieving similar goals.
• Identify your weaknesses: As an artist, you have unique skills, but you also have a set of weaknesses. These may include handling finances, marketing, or public speaking, among others. A good manager should have skills that complement yours, making up for any gaps that might hold you back.
• Consider the manager’s personality: The music industry is a challenging and fast-paced environment. You will be dealing with your manager on a day-to-day basis, so it’s vital that you find someone who you can communicate with easily and trust. Their personality should complement yours and bring out the best in you.
• Look for a manager with connections: A good music manager should have a wide network within the industry. The more extensive the network, the more opportunities for gigs, promotions, and collaborations. So, it’s essential to look for someone who can leverage their connections to help you achieve your goals.

Research and Network

To find the best fit, it’s essential to do your research and network within the music industry. Most of the time, opportunities arise through mutual friends or acquaintances, so it’s critical to attend music events and connect with people in the industry. You can also explore online platforms and do extensive research by reading up on managers who have handled artists in your genre.

• Research reputable artist managers: One way to identify potential managers is through research. You can find lists of credible managers online or look up the details of the managers of musicians in your genre. You could also check out their social media pages to see what type of clients they have and their area of expertise.
• Attend music conferences: Attending music conferences can give you access to established managers and contacts within the industry. At these events, you can network, attend workshops, and learn about the latest trends in the music business.
• Ask for referrals: Ask your friends, bandmates, promoters, and any other industry contacts if they know any qualified managers. Referrals come from mutual trust and shared experiences, and there’s a higher chance that the relationship with your manager will succeed if you have a shared contact.
• Search online: Online searches can provide a wealth of information about potential music managers. You could check out job boards, LinkedIn, manager directories or use search engines to find managers in your area of interest.

Interview Prospective Managers

Once you’ve identified potential managers, the next step is to interview them to get a sense of who they are and if they will fit your needs.

• Prepare for your interview: Ahead of the interview, prepare a list of questions to ask, including their experience, networks, and track record of achieving similar goals.
• Ask about their experience: Ask for their work history, clients, experience in the industry, and what they can do to help you achieve your goals. Experience in the music industry is a considerable advantage, and a track record is even more critical.
• Evaluate their communication style: It’s essential to have open communication with your manager. Ask them how often they will update you and their preferred communication channels. Evaluate their communication style to ensure they can understand and respond to your needs.
• Talk Money: The financial aspect is one of the most delicate aspects of any business relationship. It’s crucial to clarify how much they will take and what services they will offer before signing a contract.

Do Your Due Diligence

Before committing to a manager, it’s crucial to do your due diligence and check their reputation, and their track record.

Pros	Cons
Experienced managers can help you navigate the music industry	They may have already established relationships in the industry, which may limit your opportunities
A seasoned manager will give you valuable career advice	Managers may take over creative decisions, leaving little room for artist control
Managers can help you build a brand and promote your music to a wider audience	Some managers may have conflicting interests, which could be detrimental to your career
They can negotiate contracts, secure gigs and protect your financial interests	Some managers may not offer the necessary services that you require, leaving room for mismatched expectations

• Check their reputation: Verify the manager’s track record by contacting current or former clients or industry contacts. You could also do a Google search, read reviews, and check for any red flags about their reputation.
• Check their track record: Check if they have handled music artists in your genre and if they have any notable achievements. Research the gigs they have secured, the deals they closed, and the milestones they achieved for their clients.
• Get the opinion of a music lawyer: Before signing a contract, consider seeking professional legal advice to help you navigate the legal requirements, clauses and technicalities of the agreement.

In conclusion, finding the right music manager is a crucial decision that can define an artist’s success. By determining your needs, researching and networking, interviewing prospective managers and doing your due diligence, you can ensure you choose the right professional for the job. Remember, a good music manager is not just someone who shares your vision and goals but understands how to build a strong brand and navigate the complexities of the music industry.

Networking Strategies to Help You Secure a Music Manager

Networking is an essential aspect of any successful career in the music industry. Building relationships with industry professionals can lead to various opportunities, including securing a music manager. A music manager can help an artist in various ways, from booking gigs to negotiating contracts and managing finances. In this section, we will discuss some networking strategies that can help you secure a music manager.

Attend Networking Events

One of the most effective ways to network in the music industry is by attending networking events. Networking events provide an opportunity to meet industry professionals, including music managers, face-to-face. Some examples of networking events you can attend include music conferences, industry showcases, and workshops.

Here are some tips for attending networking events:

• Research the event: Do your research before attending the event to get an idea of who will be attending, what topics will be covered, and how to introduce yourself.
• Prepare an elevator pitch: Have a concise and compelling introduction ready to introduce yourself and your music.
• Bring business cards: Have business cards ready to give to people you meet at the event.
• Listen more than you talk: Networking is not just about promoting yourself; it’s also about listening and learning from others.

Utilize Social Media

Social media has become a powerful tool for networking in the music industry. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn can help you connect with industry professionals and showcase your music.

Here are some tips for utilizing social media for networking:

• FOLLOW INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS: Follow music managers and other industry professionals on social media to stay up to date and engage with their content.
• SHARE YOUR MUSIC: Share your music on social media and use hashtags related to your genre to reach a wider audience.
• ENGAGE WITH OTHERS: Like and comment on other people’s posts to start conversations and build relationships.
• JOIN GROUPS: Join Facebook and LinkedIn groups related to the music industry to connect with other professionals and learn about opportunities.

Volunteer at Industry Events

Volunteering can be an excellent way to network in the music industry. Volunteering at industry events provides an opportunity to meet professionals, including music managers, and showcase your skills.

Here are some tips for volunteering at industry events:

• RESEARCH EVENTS: Research industry events that need volunteers and apply early to secure a spot.
• BE RELIABLE: Be reliable and show up on time to make a good impression.
• NETWORK WITH PROFESSIONALS: Take advantage of the opportunity to network with professionals while volunteering.
• SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS: Showcase your skills while volunteering to impress industry professionals and potentially secure an opportunity.

Collaborate with Other Artists

Collaborating with other artists can be an excellent networking strategy in the music industry. Working with other artists can help you expand your network and potentially lead to opportunities with music managers.

Here are some benefits of collaborating with other artists:

Pros	Cons
Exposure to new audiences	Potential creative differences
Share resources and knowledge	Possible conflicts over credit and royalties
Potential for increased creative inspiration	Possible lack of chemistry and collaboration

Here are some tips for collaborating with other artists:

• FIND ARTISTS WITH SIMILAR GOALS: Look for artists with similar goals and values to ensure a productive collaboration.
• BE CLEAR ABOUT EXPECTATIONS: Communicate your expectations and goals for the collaboration upfront to avoid confusion and misunderstandings.
• SHARE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Discuss and clarify roles and responsibilities for the collaboration, including songwriting, production, and promotion.

Networking is a crucial part of building a successful career in the music industry. By attending networking events, utilizing social media, volunteering, and collaborating with other artists, you can increase your chances of securing a music manager. Remember to be professional, have a positive attitude, and stay persistent in your networking efforts.

Three Key Dos and Don’ts of Crafting an Effective Music Manager Pitch

Marketing yourself as a musician can be hard work, from performing your music on stages in front of small or large crowds to creating the perfect album. However, getting a music manager to represent you can release a great deal of pressure from your shoulders. Not only can a good manager help you find the right opportunities, they can also help you vet prospective music deals that you may be interested in. If you’ve struggled to get a manager to represent you and your music career, it is time to get the help you need. Here are three key dos and don’ts to help you craft an effective music manager pitch.

Do Your Research

Starting with the research that can open doors to an effective manager pitch. Researching every aspect of the music industry is key to crafting a captivating pitch that will resonate with potential managers. Here are some things to consider when researching:

• Find Out Which Music Managers Represent Artists Similar to Your Style

By recognizing the common music genres in the industry, you can locate the right music managers for your needs. As a musician, you should seek out the appropriate manager who can promote your music in the genre you specialize in. By familiarising yourself with the music business and studying the different strengths of top music managers, you can determine the professionals who can assist in propelling your art to new heights.

• Investigate the Manager’s Professional History

Employing the proper music manager necessitates an overview of their professional history. The internet serves as a treasure trove of information on managers and lets you identify and shortlist prospective managers. Do thorough due diligence, read up on histories, ask for recommendations and use online resources like Music Week or Billboard magazine. Tackle these resources systematically, and you will find the manager who fits your music project.

• Decipher Artist Numbers and Streaming Stats

It’s essential to note that most music managers like numbers that match the artist’s quality. They will often look at streaming statistics, chart placements, and social media numbers to gauge an artist’s growth, which in turn impacts your chances of getting managed by them. As a musician, you must equip yourself with all these vital stats to provide a comprehensive outlook to your potential music manager.

Don’t Be Too Vague

One common mistake musicians make when pitching themselves to managers is providing vague information about their music, personality, or plans. Vagueness can easily make managers lose interest in your pitch. Instead, be clear and precise in your pitch. Here are some tips:

• Be Clear About Your Music Style

Your music manager wants to know exactly what genre of music you create. They understand there is a market for various music genres, so you need to explain to them the type of music you create, to gauge whether they can effectively promote it or not.

• Provide Details of Previous and Current Projects

It’s better to provide a comprehensive portfolio of your previous and current music projects to your potential manager. You can inform them about any tours you’ve been on, the number of followers you have on social media, or upcoming gigs you may have. Giving details about these sorts of successes can make a space to negotiate a fair deal with your potential manager.

• Don’t Make the Pitch All About You

A music manager pitch should not merely revolve around “I” or “Me”. You should aim to have clear information about your goals and future ambitions in the music industry. Your pitch should include details about what you hope to achieve in the next few years and how your manager can assist you in achieving it.

Do Follow Up on Your Pitch

Following up on your pitch can help you determine whether or not the manager has taken an interest in you. Many managers can receive several pitches. To ensure that you remain top of mind, follow up with a message or a phone call. Here are some guidelines for following up:

• Have a Plan and a Reminder Schedule

You should have a timeline for following up on your pitch. If, for example, you sent out messages or emails right before the weekend, opt for a follow-up early the next week. Keep in mind that even if a manager is interested, they may be busy with handling other assignments. Therefore, it’s essential to have a schedule for your follow-ups.

• Be Polite and Professional

Follow up by text, email, or message, depending on the previous communication you had with your prospective music manager. Be polite and professional in your follow-up, and avoid putting them under pressure. Timing is everything, so ensure you are mindful of their time when following up.

• Be Persistent, But Don’t Be Overbearing

Although it’s essential to follow up on your pitch, you shouldn’t cross the line with overbearing behavior. Attempting to contact a music manager too frequently can ruin your chances of getting managed. It’s better to achieve a balance between being persistent and patient.

Dos and Don’ts	Explanations	Examples
Do Your Research	Research the Music industry, who the appropriate manager for your genre is and what are they looking for.	Finding the right manager that represents artists similar to your music genre, and examining the manager’s professional history.
Don’t Be Too Vague	Provide clear details and goals of your current, and previous music projects.	Providing vague information about your music, personality or plans, can make managers lose interest in your pitch.
Do Follow Up on Your Pitch	Have a plan and a reminder schedule, be polite and professional but, at the same time, persistent.	Following up with your manager via text or an email in a polite and professional manner, but at the same time, be persistent.

In summary, if you want to attract the right music manager to help you grow your music career, avoid vagueness in your pitch, do your research on your music style and relevant managers, and follow up by being professional but persistent. Employing these three dos and don’ts will ensure you are not held back in your music career.

How to Stand Out to Potential Music Managers in a Crowded Industry

The music industry is tough and competitive, and finding the right music manager can be a game changer for an artist’s career. However, getting a music manager can be a challenge, especially when there are so many talented artists competing for limited opportunities. Therefore, in this article, we will explore some valuable insights on how to stand out to potential music managers.

Build a Strong Brand Identity

When an artist is starting out, they need to establish a brand identity that embodies their vision, persona, and sound. A strong brand identity not only helps an artist stand out but also makes them more appealing to potential music managers who are looking for a unique artist to work with. To build a strong brand identity, artists should consider the following:

• Identify their unique selling point: What makes them different from other artists in the industry?
• Create a cohesive visual brand: From their logo to their social media profiles, artists should have a consistent visual identity that reflects their style and message.
• Develop a signature sound: The music an artist makes should be identifiable as their own sound, which makes it easier for fans and music managers alike to recognize their work.

In addition to building a strong brand identity, artists must focus on continuously improving and developing their craft through consistent rehearsals, performances, and recordings. By investing time and effort in their art, a musician can showcase their dedication, talent, and work ethic to potential music managers.

Network and Collaborate with Other Industry Professionals

Networking and collaborating with other industry professionals such as producers, songwriters, and promoters can help artists gain exposure and build relationships that could lead to potential music management opportunities. Such collaborations can also give artists the chance to showcase their talents and gain constructive feedback from industry insiders.

Moreover, collaborating with established artists, either through live performances or collaborations, can give upcoming musicians a chance to tap into the fan bases of these established acts. Therefore, making helpful contacts in the industry should be a priority for every musician.

Use Social Media to Showcase Your Talent and Personality

In the digital age, social media platforms provide a unique opportunity for musicians to connect with fans and industry professionals. By using social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram to showcase their talent, personality, and music, artists can build a fan base and attract potential management opportunities.

However, it is important to use social media responsibly and professionally. Artists should share high-quality content and interact with fans and industry professionals respectfully. Responding to messages and comments from fans is an excellent way to strengthen relationships, build momentum and potentially attract potential management opportunities.

One should aim to use social media accounts as a tool for building a personal and artistic brand identity that stands out to potential music managers.

Seek Help From A&R Scouts

A&R scouts, also known as talent scouts, are professionals who search for new talent and help sign artists to record labels. They can also connect artists with reputable music managers who can help them navigate the industry successfully.

Many major record labels have A&R departments that manage talent recruitment, and independent A&R scouts also exist to help artists excel in their careers. Therefore, an upcoming artist can benefit significantly from engaging with A&R scouts to introduce them to potential managers and gain valuable feedback on their craft.

In conclusion, standing out in the music industry requires a combination of talent, hard work, and a smart approach to building a personal brand identity. By focusing on creating quality music, developing a visual brand identity, networking, showcasing talent on social media, and leveraging A&R scouts, musicians can set themselves apart from competitors and attract potential music management opportunities.

Pros	Cons
Development of personal brand identity	High competition
Numerous networking opportunities	Requires dedication and commitment over a long period
Direct contact with A&R scouts	Requires the artist to have quality music
Opportunity to gain exposure through collaborations	Requires artists to put themselves out there publicly

Standing out to music managers may seem daunting, but with the right strategy and approach, musicians can increase their chances of success in a crowded industry.

How to Get a Manager for Music

As an aspiring musician, getting a reputable music management agency to represent you can be the first step towards a successful career. A music manager is responsible for helping to develop and direct the careers of musicians, ensuring that they make the right moves to increase their chances of success. However, the process of securing a music manager can be daunting, especially for new artists. In this article, we provide a guide to getting a manager for your music career.

1. Determine What You Want from a Music Manager

Before you start looking for a music manager, it is important to have an idea of what you want from them. This will help you to filter out managers who may not share your vision for your music career. Some of the things to consider include:

• Experience and expertise in your genre of music
• Connections in the music industry, e.g., with record labels, booking agents, and promoters
• Availability to devote enough time and attention to managing your career
• Willingness to work with you as a team player
• Fee structure that aligns with your budget

2. Research Potential Music Management Agencies

Once you have identified what you want from a music manager, you can start looking for agencies that may be a good fit for your needs. Some of the ways to research potential music management agencies include:

• Internet search: Use search engines like Google to find music management agencies that specialize in your genre of music
• Networking: Attend music industry events and conferences where you can meet music managers and artists who have experience working with them
• Referrals: Ask other musicians, music industry professionals, or friends who have worked with music managers to recommend agencies they trust

3. Vet Potential Music Managers

Once you have a list of potential music management agencies, the next step is to vet the individual music managers within those agencies. This ensures that you are working with someone who has the skills, experience, and personality that match your needs. Some of the things to look for when vetting a music manager include:

• Track record of success in building successful music careers
• Effective communication skills and ability to listen to your needs and concerns
• Proven ability to negotiate deals and contracts on behalf of clients
• Information on any legal issues or conflicts of interest that may impact their ability to represent you

4. Meet with Prospective Music Managers

After vetting potential music managers, you can schedule meetings with those who remain on your list. This is an opportunity to discuss what you want from a music career, and understand the services that the manager can offer you. Some of the things to discuss during these meetings include:

• Your musical style and what sets you apart from other artists
• Your short-term and long-term career goals
• The manager’s strategy for helping you achieve your career goals
• The manager’s availability and their communication style
• Their fees and any other contractual agreements you will be required to sign

5. Evaluate the Music Management Agency

After meeting with prospective music managers, you will likely have enough information to weigh your options and make an informed decision. However, it is still important to evaluate the music management agency itself to ensure that it is the right fit for your needs.

• Consider the agency’s track record in your genre of music, and the success rates of other artists represented by the agency
• Find out how long the agency has been in business, and whether it has weathered any scandals, controversies or legal issues that may damage its reputation
• Consider the agency’s size, reputation, and the quality of the staff, including accountants, lawyers, and other professionals that work with the agency
• Determine whether the agency can offer additional support services or resources that can help boost your music career, such as. promotions or PR services
• Review the agency’s fee structure and whether it is reasonable and aligned with industry standards

Pros	Cons
Working with a reputable music management agency can provide you with access to bigger and better opportunities in the music industry	The cost of working with a music manager can be expensive, with some agencies requiring large upfront fees, and an additional percentage of your earnings
Music management agencies can introduce you to essential contacts in the music industry who can help to grow your career	You may not have full control over your creative process, as music managers can sometimes steer you in a different direction that may not align with your artistic vision
Working with a music manager can help you to remain focused on your music career, without getting distracted by other business-related tasks	If you do not have a clear idea of what you want from a music manager or agency, you may end up with someone who does not share your vision, which can affect your chances of success in the music industry

Conclusion

Getting a music manager is an essential step for any musician looking to take their career to the next level. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of finding a reputable music management agency that fits your needs and helps you achieve your career goals. Remember to take your time, do your research, and take proactive steps towards building a sustainable career in the music industry.

FAQs: How to Get a Manager for Music

How do I find a manager for my music?

You can find a manager for your music by asking for referrals from other musicians, attending music conferences and festivals, reaching out through social media, submitting demos to record labels, and networking wherever and whenever possible. Another option is to search for manager directories or music talent agencies online.

What do music managers do?

Music managers are responsible for helping their clients to build their careers and achieve their goals. They oversee all aspects of a musician’s career, including booking gigs, negotiating contracts, managing tours, promoting albums, and handling finances. A manager works to ensure that their clients are making progress and achieving success in their music careers.

What should I look for in a music manager?

When looking for a music manager, you should look for someone who has experience in the music industry, a good reputation, and a track record of success. It’s also important to find someone who shares your interest in and passion for your music. A good manager should be well-connected, organized, and trustworthy. You should also consider the manager’s personality, as this will affect your working relationship.

How do you approach a music manager?

You can approach a music manager by sending demos, attending industry events, networking through social media, and reaching out to other artists who may know a manager. It’s important to have a clear pitch and a professional presentation when approaching a manager. You should also do your research beforehand and make sure that the manager is the right fit for you and your music.

What should I expect from a music manager?

You should expect a music manager to work closely with you to help you achieve your career goals. They should be proactive in booking gigs, promoting your music, and managing finances. A good manager will be honest with you and provide constructive feedback that can help you to grow as an artist. They should also be available and responsive to your needs and concerns.

How much do music managers charge?

Music managers typically charge a percentage of the musician’s profits, usually between 10% and 20%. However, this can vary depending on the manager’s experience and the level of success the artist has already reached. Some managers may also charge a retainer fee or require that the artist cover certain expenses, such as travel or marketing costs.

How do I know if a music manager is right for me?

You should know if a music manager is right for you if they have a track record of success in the industry and share your vision for your music career. It’s important to have a good working relationship with your manager, so you should also consider their personality and communication style. You should also be comfortable with the terms of your contract and any fees or expenses associated with working with the manager.

How do music managers help new artists?

Music managers can help new artists by introducing them to industry professionals, helping them to find opportunities to perform or record, and providing feedback on their music and performances. A manager can also help new artists to develop their brand and create a strategy for promoting their music. They can also provide advice and guidance on legal and financial matters related to the music industry.

How do I negotiate with a music manager?

You can negotiate with a music manager by doing your research and being prepared to make a case for your worth as an artist. You should be clear about your goals and expectations, and be willing to compromise on certain aspects of the contract. It’s important to have legal representation when negotiating with a manager, as they will likely have experience in negotiating contracts and may have the upper hand in the negotiations.

How do I fire a music manager?

Firing a music manager can be a difficult and sensitive matter, but it’s important to remember that a manager works for you and you have the right to terminate the relationship if it’s not working out. You should first try to resolve any issues or concerns that you have with the manager and give them a chance to address the problems. If this doesn’t work, you should write a formal letter terminating the contract and give the manager a reasonable period of time to wrap up any ongoing projects.

Conclusion

Getting a music manager can be a significant step in advancing your career in the music industry. It’s important to do your research, find a manager who is the right fit for you and your music, and establish clear expectations and a working relationship. After reading this article, take some time to think about what you’re looking for in a manager, create a professional presentation, and start networking and reaching out to potential managers. Remember, a good music manager can help you achieve your goals and make your dreams a reality.

Thank you for reading, and check out our other articles on music and the arts!