Navigating the new music industry can be a daunting task for independent recording artists, especially when it comes to managing the business side of things. A music manager can be instrumental in helping you reach your career goals by handling tasks such as booking gigs, negotiating contracts, and strategising your overall career path.

However, finding the right music manager, especially in today’s rapidly evolving music business, requires careful consideration and a strategic approach.

Here’s how you can find a music manager who aligns with your vision and can propel your music career forward.

1. Understand the Role of a Music Manager

Before you begin your search, it’s essential to understand what a music manager does. A music manager handles various aspects of a recording artist's career, including:

- Booking and scheduling performances
- Negotiating deals and contracts
- Marketing and promotional strategies
- Building industry connections
- Managing financial aspects

By understanding these roles, you can better identify what you need from a manager and ensure that your expectations align with what a prospective manager can offer.

2. Assess Your Career Stage

The type of manager you need can depend on where you are in your career. If you’re just starting out, you might benefit from a manager who is enthusiastic and willing to grow with you, even if they lack extensive experience.

Conversely, if you’re an established artist, you may require someone with a robust network and significant industry experience. Assessing your career stage helps in targeting the right candidates who can meet your specific needs.

3. Network within the Industry

Networking is crucial in the music industry. Attend industry events, music conferences, and local gigs to meet people who might know potential managers. Networking can also be done online through platforms like LinkedIn, where you can connect with industry professionals.

Building relationships within the industry can lead to introductions to reputable managers who may not be actively advertising their services.

4. Utilise Online Resources

There are various online platforms dedicated to connecting artists with music managers. Websites like Music Managers Forum (MMF) provide directories of managers. Additionally, social media platforms such as Instagram and Twitter can be useful for discovering managers who represent artists similar to you. Engage with these platforms, join music industry groups, and participate in discussions to increase your visibility and chances of finding a manager.

5. Research Potential Managers

Once you have a list of potential managers, conduct thorough research. Look into their backgrounds, the artists they currently manage, and their success stories. Check reviews or testimonials from other artists. This research will help you determine if a manager has the right experience and a track record of successfully promoting artists.

6. Prepare a Professional EPK

Before approaching potential managers, ensure you have a professional EPK (Electronic Press Kit) ready. This should include:

- A well-crafted artist biography
- High-quality recordings of your music
- Professional photos and videos
- A summary of your achievements and career highlights

A professional EPK demonstrates that you are serious about your career and provides managers with the information they need to assess your potential.

7. Reach Out with a Personalised Approach

When contacting potential managers, personalise your approach. Explain why you are interested in working with them specifically and how you believe they can help advance your career. Avoid generic messages, as personalised communication shows your genuine interest and professionalism.

8. Arrange Meetings and Interviews

After initial contact, arrange meetings or interviews with prospective managers. This can be done in person or via video calls. During these meetings, discuss your career goals, and expectations, and how the manager plans to help you achieve them. This is also an opportunity to gauge their enthusiasm, knowledge, and compatibility with you.

9. Discuss Terms and Contracts

If you find a manager who seems like a good fit, the next step is to discuss terms and contracts. Ensure you understand the terms of the agreement, including:

- Commission rates (typically between 15-20%)
- Duration of the contract
- Specific responsibilities

It’s advisable to consult with a music lawyer who specialises in entertainment law to review the contract and ensure your interests are protected.

10. Build a Strong Working Relationship

Once you’ve signed a contract, focus on building a strong working relationship with your manager. Maintain open and regular communication, set clear goals, and work collaboratively to achieve them. Trust and mutual respect are key to a successful artist-manager partnership.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right music manager in today’s new music business requires diligence, research, and strategic networking. By understanding the role of a manager, assessing your career stage, and utilising both online and offline resources, you can identify potential managers who align with your vision.

Prepare a professional EPK (press kit), personalise your outreach, and ensure you thoroughly vet potential managers before entering into a contract. With the right manager by your side, you can navigate the complexities of the music industry and take your career to new heights.

If you are looking for music management to help build your career in 2024 – get in touch with Tryfan Music and book in a FREE 15-minute discovery call.

You can also download The Recording Artist Toolkit to Learn the 6 Steps to Become a Successful
Independent Recording Artist in 2024.