When Should Musicians Consider Hiring a Manager?

_Introduction_

Starting out in the music industry can be daunting, and managing gigs and negotiations requires a significant amount of energy and expertise. At some point, many artists find themselves considering hiring a manager to streamline their career management and enable them to focus primarily on their art. This article explores various scenarios and considerations for musicians thinking about bringing in a manager.

Why Need a Manager?

Most artists, when they begin to be in high demand, will benefit from having someone to handle their booking and negotiations. Negotiations, especially over fees and contracts, can be emotionally draining and time-consuming. A manager can take the pressure off, ensuring the artist remains focused on creating and delivering their best work.

When Managers Seek Artists

It usually works the other way around. When an artist gains a reputation for consistently delivering quality performances, managers take notice and seek them out. When a management company takes on an artist, they are effectively making a long-term investment in that artist's career, in exchange for a percentage of the revenue generated. Typically, this percentage is around 20%, with managers setting up a business structure for the artist that connects them to agents, promoters, and record companies. Managers concentrate on the artist's business affairs while the artist focuses on making music.

Playing the Open Mic and Building Buzz

While having a manager can be quite beneficial, there are still steps artists can take to build their presence and attract attention. Participating in open mics and showcases, and developing a buzz among attendees can lead to opportunities. However, as legendary journalist Hunter S. Thompson said, 'Experience is the name everyone gives to their mistakes.' Artist Dennis Michael Locorriere added, 'In the jungle, it’s nice to own a lion.'

For many artists, the primary goal of hiring a manager is to secure more gigs. However, if you're currently understaffed in terms of funds, finding a manager who works on commission can be a viable solution. In this arrangement, the manager earns a percentage of each gig they secure, which can reduce your earnings per gig. This model can be structured such that the manager only books gigs at a minimum price, ensuring that the gig fees remain at a satisfactory level for both parties. However, as a musician, it's crucial to ensure the manager is honest and transparent about all financial dealings. Managers can easily under-report pay, or even engage in dishonest behavior, as countless stories from famous groups attest.

Manager or DIY?

Given the potential challenges, managing your career yourself can seem like a tempting alternative. However, it's a lot of work and not always fun, but it’s not impossible. Some musicians, like Dave Clark of the Dave Clark Five, were able to manage their careers effectively, but such cases are rare. Learning how to manage your career effectively is a valuable skill, and there are many resources available. Books on music business management are highly recommended as a starting point. Sitting in on meetings with your hired manager can also provide valuable insights and learning experiences.

In conclusion, while managers can provide invaluable support and expertise, they should be approached with caution and a willingness to learn. Ultimately, the decision to hire a manager depends on your specific needs, the resources you have, and your tolerance for the challenges that come with self-management.