As an emerging music artist, building a strong and supportive team is one of the most important steps you can take to advance your career.
While your talent and dedication lay the foundation for success, having the right people by your side ensures you can focus on your art while they handle the business and logistics. In this guide, we’ll explore the roles of managers, booking agents, and PR professionals, and how to find the right ones for your team.
The role of a manager
A manager is often the cornerstone of an artist’s team. They are responsible for overseeing your career, coordinating with other team members, and ensuring you stay on track to achieve your goals. A good manager acts as your representative, negotiator, and trusted advisor.
Key responsibilities:
- Developing a career plan and setting short- and long-term goals.
- Handling contracts and negotiations.
- Managing schedules, including studio time, rehearsals, and tours.
- Acting as the main point of contact for other team members and industry professionals.
Finding the right manager: Look for someone who believes in your vision and has a genuine passion for your music. Experience in the industry is valuable, but trust, communication, and shared goals are equally important. Many managers work on commission, typically around 15-20% of your earnings.
The role of a booking agent
Booking agents are responsible for securing live performances, such as gigs, tours, and festival appearances. They have extensive networks within the live music industry and work to match you with opportunities that align with your brand and audience.
Key responsibilities:
- Booking shows and negotiating fees.
- Planning and organising tours, including travel and accommodation.
- Ensuring contractual obligations for performances are met.
- Building relationships with promoters, venues, and event organisers.
Finding the right booking agent: When seeking a booking agent, look for someone with a proven track record in your genre. Most booking agents take a percentage of your live performance fees, usually around 10-15%. It’s important to ensure they’re proactive and have strong connections within the live music scene.
The role of a PR professional
Public relations (PR) professionals are tasked with building and maintaining your public image. They help promote your music, connect you with media outlets, and create buzz around your projects.
Key responsibilities:
- Writing press releases and pitching your music to journalists.
- Securing interviews, features, and reviews in magazines, blogs, and podcasts.
- Managing social media campaigns and publicity events.
- Crafting your narrative and ensuring consistent messaging across platforms.
Finding the right PR professional: A good PR professional should have a deep understanding of the music industry and established relationships with media outlets. They often charge a monthly retainer or a project-based fee. Start by researching PR agencies or independent publicists who specialise in your genre.
Tips for building your team
- Start small and scale up: In the early stages of your career, you might not need all three roles immediately. Focus on the most pressing need, such as finding a manager or booking agent.
- Network within the industry: Attend music events, showcases, and industry meet-ups to connect with potential team members and get recommendations from peers.
- Do your research: Before hiring anyone, check their references, track record, and reputation. Make sure their working style aligns with your needs.
- Set clear expectations: Establish roles, responsibilities, and payment terms upfront to avoid misunderstandings.
- Trust your instincts: Building a team is as much about personal chemistry as it is about qualifications. Work with people you trust and feel comfortable with.
Building a team of skilled and dedicated professionals is essential for taking your music career to the next level. Managers, booking agents, and PR professionals each play a crucial role in helping you navigate the industry, reach new audiences, and grow as an artist.
Take the time to find the right people who share your vision and believe in your potential. With the right team in place, you’ll be well-equipped to achieve your goals and thrive in the competitive world of music.
