Are Managers A Necessity?
So you think you want a manager do ya?
Do you really need one or is the thought of pounding the pavement too much for you to bear?
Most bands and artists are able to get by without a manager for quite awhile. A good rule of thumb to live by is that when the gigs and the overall operations of your band’s business become too much to handle, then it’s probably a good time to get one…
So what exactly does a manager do?
Managers are much like the teenage kid your parents left you with when they went out to have some “adult” fun. An expensive baby sitter! They arrange for you to be at your gigs on time, get you the occasional spot to play (and I do mean occasional) and if you get lucky and find a really good one… they may even help you to get your laundry done properly…
When starting out as new band, there really isn’t any point in having a manager. You see there really isn’t that much that a manager can do for you at this point, that you can’t do for yourself. When the business of doing music is becoming grander than the creation of it, then you will definitely be ready for management.
Remember your manager is there to assist you with the day to day operations of your band. Professional and experienced managers get paid a percentage of everything you take home. This fee can be anywhere in the range of 15-25% of your income “after” expenses. Most do good work and some may be flighty but they all will want some form of commitment to do business with you.
D.I.Y. - Do It Yourself
Bands that are thinking of finding management in the early runnings would be better off recruiting the help of an enthusiastic, and business oriented go getter friend.
These individuals can grow with the band and learn the ropes from you…and for you, through experience. This is a great way for you and your newly appointed manager to get to know if the personal chemistry is a fit, or if the work involved is something they can wrap themselves around.
If you do choose to opt for the “professional manager” be sure to verify their qualifications before you sign any type of agreement with them.
* Can they really get you the gigs they say they can?
* Have they worked with any other bands?
* What band references can they provide?
Can you talk to those bands to get an idea what to expect if you choose to work with the manager? If not, you’d best do your own homework and find out why they don’t want you talking to their other clients. Or forget working with this person altogether.
Be suspicious, be cautious and be extremely careful of who you do choose to conduct business with. Most managers will want contracts and more than a few don’t or can’t deliver.
If you must go the contract route then try to get a 3-6 month probation time period to ensure that either party can go their own way if the magic isn’t happening. Most importantly get a lawyer to look over your agreement, please. It may cost you a little now but will save you so much in the long run.
* If you can do it yourself stick with it.
* If you don’t know how…ask.
Choose or nominate someone in the band able to handle the business end of things. Everyone is good at something. Artwork, planning, schmoozing…whatever! Delegate assignments according to strengths and watch the returns gained for your work.
Recruit fans and family members to help you with some of the leg work. Start a street team and put their ears to the ground. Have them assist you with postering and acquiring those “unknown” gig spots.
Learn the art of delegation and things will slowly begin to manage themselves.
Keep the music real and we thank you for your undying support of independant music as always…
