DEVELOPMENT
Artist managers perform important duties in helping artists develop their reputations, manage their financial and personal affairs and navigate the music industry. If you’re interested in becoming an artist manager, learning about the details of the position can help you decide if the career is a good choice for you and your professional goals. Developing skills that could aid you in the role of artist manager can help you prepare for unique and exciting opportunities.
What Is An Artist Manager?
An artist manager is an industry professional who helps the artists they oversee meet their long-term goals, find opportunities and market their brand. They often act as both representatives for and advisors to the artist, helping shape their career direction and professional activities. Managers might also help book gigs, plan tours or create merchandise. Additional responsibilities could be to help inform others of their artists’ work and otherwise strive to grow their reputation
What Does An Artist Manager Do?
Artist managers’ responsibilities can differ based on the details of their contract and the activities of the artist or artists they represent. For example, an artist manager for a famous band might have different responsibilities than the manager of a local singer-songwriter without a strong following.
Here’s a closer look at some common artist manager duties:
Advise on contract negotiations with producers
Negotiate gig and contract agreements
Develop the artists’ brand
Lead marketing efforts for the artist, including creating merchandise and digital resources
Schedule tours and shows
Work with booking agents, labels, and producers
Help artists achieve long-term goals and improvement
Manage non-musical appearances, like interviews or film roles
Oversee the artists’ budget and finances
