Kid Relly on Artist Management

Managing an artist or bands career is a tricky process which you will dedicate most of your time to. A manager is not like most normal jobs, you do not have set work hours and you do not have set vacations, etc. You basically will be an extension of the artist doing a lot of the work that isn’t as much fun at some times but at other times is greatly rewarding. To be a manager you should know the in’s and out’s of the industry or at least have basic knowledge of business and law. The manager will be responsible for day to day duties keeping the artists career running smoothly and soliciting any projects that may gain more money and exposure for the artist. Being a manager is a job like many where you get better with experience, going through many different situations and learning how to make the outcome of those events a positive one for you and your artist.

The pay of the manager depends on the salary of the artist as most manager’s payments go by percentage. The industry standard for a manager is 20% of the gross monthly income of the artist meaning for every hundred dollars the artist makes you take $20 of that. The manager is not a booking agent, as many people think - the manager is not responsible for getting an artist or band shows and tours. The manager is supposed to help in negotiating and the process of getting the tours and shows set up, but the manager is not responsible for booking. This job is for the talent agent or booking agent or agency. In some states such as California it is illegal to be either the talent agent or booking agent and the manager.

As for artists, many ask us when is the right time to get a manager.  Most of the time, the artist should get a manager when they can no longer do it by themselves because of too many shows and recording sessions to keep all of their business straight. Many other reasons are if you get a large independent or major record label deal then you should have a manager before you sign the contract with the label, and also if you are putting a lot of money behind your project then you should find a manager to make sure everything runs smoothly especially if you do not have a lot of knowledge of the music industry.  A good manager will be able to find marketing, public relations, and more for you at a good price.

For those who are interested in becoming a manager there are many ways to start. The best way to prepare for the career is by reading books pertaining to music management, general business, and business and music law. Some managers pursue degrees in business law, business administration, and music law. If you are interested there are schools with degrees just for music careers at places such as Full Sail based in the Orlando , FL area.

DJ KidRelly aka Kid Come Up

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