When a musician is ready to take his career to the next level, he should consider music management. A band manager, who is usually bound by contract, assists a musician or group in coordinating their day-to-day activities by establishing relationships with publicity and press agents, booking concert or tour dates with music venue owners, and handling recording contracts with producers and other industry professionals. A manager’s responsibilities often extend beyond these expectations, such as arranging transportation and lodging for the band or musician, as well as keeping track of the budget.
A music manager is a person who can help a musician in a variety of ways. During the early stages of a band’s career, a manager may serve as a promotional tool that aids the group’s success. Once a show has been booked, the manager may be in charge of creating posters or advertisements to publicize the event. Music management may also write articles or album reviews about the band for publication in entertainment publications such as newspapers and magazines.
Any band manager who is also a photographer will have a distinct advantage. A band photo shoot gives record labels an idea of the musician’s public image and personality. A press kit or media kit must include a photo or two, as well as a published article and a music demo tape. A media kit should provide direct access to everything a record label or music venue might need to know about the musician.
With the introduction of useful networking tools such as MyspaceTM, music management has assumed a new role. Management will let fans and potential employers know when and where they can listen to and learn about the musician by keeping up-to-date information on the musician, such as upcoming shows and a blog. It is critical for every manager to take advantage of these free promotional tools in order to ensure that their clients are recognized.
The job of a music manager is never truly finished. Once a musician has established a fan base, music management should consider establishing a mailing list, either via e-mail or postal service, to keep loyal fans informed of new tour dates, album releases, and other relevant information from the musician. This procedure will aid in ensuring a large fan base, which may include people from other countries. Frequently, a band will achieve stardom in a country other than their own. It is the responsibility of music management to make the client’s music a global success.