What does a Music Manager do?

A Music Manager works independently or for a music-focused company, such as a record label, booking company or music management company. They manage the business aspects of one or more Musicians’ careers. Their assistance can help the Artists focus on performances and talent development.

Music Managers also look out for Musicians’ best interests and ensure they’re well-represented in negotiations and transactions. A Music Manager might handle the entire workload or collaborate with other professionals. For example, they might work with a PR Rep to manage promotional activities and the Musician’s image.

Music Manager skills and qualifications

A Music Manager job description typically lists these qualifications:

• Music industry knowledge

• Management experience

• Effective negotiation skills

• Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Crisis management skills

• Math skills and financial literacy

• Attention to detail and organization

Music Manager experience requirements

It’s common to expect a Music Manager to have worked several years in the music industry, particularly on the managerial side. Internships at music labels, management companies or music venues provide experience and help new Music Managers make connections.

Entry-level positions at those same music-based organizations also help candidates gain experience. You might require one or more years of work as a Music Manager if your new hire will serve as the primary Manager.

Music Manager education and training requirements

Music Manager positions don’t often have formal education requirements. Some organizations may prefer candidates to have a bachelor’s degree in general business or a music-specific major, such as music marketing or music management.

However, consider prioritizing skills-based hiring over candidates’ educational backgrounds. This method may attract a broader candidate pool who can also succeed as Music Managers.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Music Manager job description doesn’t fit your position, here are more options for related careers that might work:

• Music Producer

• Entertainment Manager

Music Manager job description FAQs

What’s the difference between a Music Manager and a Music Agent?

Music Agents focus specifically on booking shows and appearances for Musicians. They handle all aspects of the performance, including negotiating the contract and working with the venue or promoter to ensure the show goes well. Music Managers handle a Musician’s overall career. They’re involved in business arrangements that help the Musicians achieve their goals. Managers can also handle the Agent’s role of booking performances.

What qualities make a good Music Manager?

Good Music Managers have a strong understanding of the music industry. They’re often creative and understand what it takes to be successful in music. Strong communication helps a Music Manager explain business details to Musicians and listen to their clients’ goals. Having connections in the industry may make it easier for Managers to get their clients ahead.

How can you make your Music Manager job description stand out?

Consider expressing your organization’s personality in your Music Manager job description. Describe what makes it different and what type of Musicians you typically manage. This might include the musical genre or the career stage of the Musicians you represent. It may also be helpful to describe your company’s structure, including how the Music Manager might work with team members and what type of support they have.

Do Music Managers earn a commission?

Music Managers typically receive a percentage of the Musician’s earnings. The percentage may vary depending on the employer.