As an independent artist, you are your own business, and running a business has a lot of moving parts. Getting a manager can be a smart business move. It’s more attainable to (and usually a prerequisite, if you’re considering) landing a record deal. 

No matter how independent you aim to be, at a certain point in your journey, you will at least need a manager to help make your career happen.

When to Hire a Manager

Independent musicians take charge of their careers. But when certain responsibilities arise along your journey, you’ll realize you can’t do it all yourself.

You’re Doing Too Much

One thing adds to another. Soon, you’re drowning in to-do lists…

Funding

You manage your income from music sales, streaming royalties, merchandise, and more. You also handle financial planning and budgeting long-term.

A manager can help you figure out the best way to organize and maximize what’s in your accounts, if not manage it for you.

Partnerships

Entrepreneurship implies collaboration in the music world. You must network with other musicians, producers, and industry professionals to expand your reach.

Independent managers can help you seek and grow partnerships in the community. (Publicists, brand sponsors and other professionals can help you achieve your goals.)

Distribution

You are certainly responsible for how your music is distributed digitally. Channels like Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp need monitoring and supervision. And if it’s your style, you’re also responsible for the production and sale of any hard copies of your music—like vinyl records or CDs.

Legal Stuff

Every company (even yours) comes with some routine procedures to protect/progress the business. First, the concern of your intellectual property. How do you manage your copyrights and royalties?

Second, how do you negotiate and manage contracts related to music licensing or performance agreements?

Managers are invaluable partners at a certain point in your career. Once you’re busy enough juggling music with the nuances of business ownership, you’ll know it’s time to hire a manager.

You Want to Be Seen

Yes, you’re busy, but maybe your career still isn’t taking off. Let’s say you've not been as visible on social media or in billboards as you wanted.

Managers can help promote you on-screen and in person. This ranges from creating and running digital content to earning you notable press features and performances.

Online

Managers can freshen up your social media accounts with new content. They can also bring a new perspective to your brand—image, message, presentation. This can help you connect with fans and engage your audience in new ways.

Onstage

Let’s say you’ve recorded some music and want to perform it live. A manager can help you find the right venues for the exposure you need.

When you need help launching your career, either because there’s too much on your own plate or you’re not sure how to get more exposure, look for a manager. Managers should not stifle your creative freedom or control any part of your career. They help you stay organized, plan and do things you can’t do alone as a working musician.

You’re Motivated

Running your own business is a hell of a lot of work. Eventually you will realize it’s time for help if you want to keep growing as a musician.

Hiring a manager means you’re ready to hit the ground running and invest in growing your career.