The music industry has a very glamorous and enticing appeal across the world. Many with the right talent and aptitude are hence pulled to make a name in this business.
Though like any other sector; music is also very diverse, competitive, and has a hierarchy. It also has several different job profiles, so you don’t necessarily need to have a technical understanding of music to be a part of this field. Those looking for a managerial profile can also pursue music business management to get a good and successful career in this industry.
So what exactly is the role of a manager in the music industry and why you should consider pursuing this path? Let’s find out!
Role of a manager
Music is a dynamic industry that makes profits in billions. It is swarmed with recording labels and artists with newer faces looking to launch themselves. These emerging artists often look for a manager who can represent them, negotiate a deal for them and help them network in this industry.
It is not just the new artists but even established names that depend on their manager for all-important decision-making. It is the role of a manager to get the client’s music to the producer and even the label executive. Most often, it is them who communicate on behalf of their client and put forward their term. Broadly speaking the role of a manager in the music industry involves the following functions:
Maintaining the client’s image-
Having the right image and staying consistent with it is important in the music industry. The manager ensures that the client keeps the right public image and promotes it constantly through the right channels. Ensuring that the artist keeps up with the latest trend and markets themselves accordingly is also the job of the manager.
Negotiating contracts with labels-
It is the manager who does all the negotiation on behalf of the client. This is also done because they have a financial stake in the success of their client and hence try to get the best deal that will benefit both parties. It is also important that a manager should have good communication and interpersonal skills. They must be able to convincingly sell the artist’s music.
Budgeting-
Budget is again a very important part of the music business as the artist is required to shoot videos and tours to promote music. Ensuring the production is always under budget and there is no overspending is the job of a manager. They also need to bring a good accountant on board to ensure that finances are being well taken care of and only spent on reasonable things.
Other opportunities-
Often music artists are bombarded with numerous opportunities when they achieve a considerable amount of fame. This includes collaborating with other artists, appearing on television shows and movies. This helps them to diversify their reach and explore various other genres. It is the manager who guides them through the best opportunities and helps them bag suitable offers through which the artist can grow successfully.