| At
some point in an artist's career he or she may consider the
question of whether a representative - usually a manager -
is necessary. Before one becomes involved in such a relationship,
several factors should be considered.
First, the artist must evaluate career needs
and objectives. If the artist does not have the time or connections
to achieve these things, a manager is probably a smart career
move. Basically, a manager "advises and counsels"
the artist with relation to the artist's profession.
Although this is somewhat ambiguous, the manager
will oversee all aspects of the artist's professional life,
and in particular will deal with record companies, publishing
companies, film producers, booking agents, etc. Keep in mind
that for some artists, depending on their unique situation,
an attorney, accountant or booking agent may be the type of
representative they need, instead of a manager.
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Second, the artist must locate an interested
manager. Probably the best way is for a manager to find the
artist. If an artist is playing live dates and is developing
a following, it is just a matter of time before a manager
will approach the artist.
Third, the artist must find the right manager.
Beware of any manager that wants the artist to sign a contract
on the spot or who makes grandiose promises of success. The
artist should seek out a real professional that honestly believes
in the artist and likes what the artist is doing.
Marks of a professional would be:
(1) having a meeting to discuss the artist's
needs and ideas the manager has for developing the artist;
(2) letting the artist know that although
the manager cannot promise success, that if all involved work
together, the artist's potential has a better chance of being
recognized;
(3) suggesting that the artist have an attorney
review any contract before the artist signs it. The bottom
line is to find a manager that the artist trusts and with
whom the artist can communicate.
The business manager handles the musician's
finances so you won't need one until you have experienced
some degree of financial success. She helps you with investment
decisions, tax matters, monitoring income from contracts,
estate planning and other financial matters. Until you require
the expertise of a business manager, an attorney or accountant
can satisfy most of your financial management needs.
Your business manager should at a minimum
have expertise in accounting and general business practices.
She should also have specific knowledge and experience in
the music business since many music business principles differ
from general business principles. If your business manager
will be giving you investment advice, your state may require
that she be licensed as an investment adviser.
Music
agent or composer agent | The
Personal Manager | Music
Attorney | Business
Manager |
Negotiating
Contracts with Your Music Agents | Why
use a music entertainment agency ? |
Business
Formation | Management
Agreement
|
