Working closely with talented musicians and assisting them in achieving their objectives can make being an artist manager an exciting and rewarding career. Before entering the field, people might not have been aware of many facets of the position. We'll examine 10 things no one told you about managing artists in this blog post, giving you an inside look at the rewards and difficulties of taking on such a distinctive career.
1. The Role Is Extremely Variable
You will have many responsibilities as an artist manager, from managing finances to negotiating contracts and booking gigs. To succeed in this multifaceted position, you must be flexible and open to learning new skills.
2. It's a 24-hour Job
The career management of an artist is not your typical 9–5 job. To accommodate your artist's schedule and the needs of the business, you might find yourself working late nights, weekends, or even on holidays.
3. Relationships are More Important Than Contacts
An artist manager must establish and keep solid relationships within the music business. Networking with promoters, venue owners, and other business professionals can open up new possibilities and support the career of your artist. I always say that a manager's value is not in the contacts they have, but in the relationships they've developed with those contacts.
4. You'll Serve as an Emotional Support System
You will be there for your artist through their highs and lows as their manager, providing them with moral support and inspiration. Being a good listener and keeping a positive outlook are crucial, even when things don't go as planned. I can consider this a privilege, rather than a burden. And on this note – you’ll have to find ways to protect your own health and wellbeing as the manager! It can be quite an isolating role sometimes, so be sure to have a strong support network around you, and take the time you need to recharge.
5. Being Patient is Crucial
Being persistent and patient are essential qualities for artist managers because success in the music business frequently takes time. While overcoming the inescapable obstacles and challenges, you'll need to maintain your attention on the long-term objectives.
6. You Must be an Expert Negotiator
Artist managers must be adept negotiators when securing performance fees or negotiating record deals. It's crucial to hone your negotiating abilities and be ready to stand up for the interests of your artist.
7. Cash Management Is Important
An important part of the job is overseeing the artist's financial affairs. Budgeting, financial planning, and making sure your artist is paid fairly for their work will all require your expertise.
8. Be Prepared to Travel Often
On tours, artist managers frequently travel a great deal with their clients. Be ready for extended travel times and frequent absences from home.
9. Not All of It Is Glamorous
Although working in the music business can be exciting, an artist manager's daily tasks frequently consist of menial activities like scheduling, billing, and email correspondence. Staying organised and upholding a strict work ethic are crucial.
10. Don't Lose the Passion for Music
Having a true love for music is perhaps the most crucial quality in an artist manager. Your desire to support your artist's success will be fuelled by this passion, which will also keep you inspired when things get tough.
More than meets the eye is involved in being an artist manager. The position requires a special blend of abilities, passion, and dedication in order to manage various responsibilities, provide emotional support, and manage finances. Aspiring artist managers can develop a more realistic perspective on the difficulties and rewards of this exciting career path by learning about these less well-known aspects of the job. With this information at your disposal, you'll be more prepared to start your successful journey in the field of artist management.
Learn everything you need to start your Artist Management career by taking a course with SMB - www.theschoolofmusicbusiness.com.