Practice What You Preach...Or Learn

At the start of undergrad in 2004, people would always ask what do you want to do with your degree when you graduate? I was unsure, so I responded with “Oh I don’t know, maybe a singer.” During the course of my studies as a music major, I discovered that I like being behind the scenes in the business of music. Helping someone else realize his or her gift was inspiring and humbling at the same time. Upon graduating, I still had no clue as to what field of the music industry I wanted to pursue, so I took a break to evaluate and research. After reading This Business of Artist Management, I concluded that there were many directions that I could go in the entertainment industry. While it is not my sole desire to be an artist manager, the sound of it is inviting. Three principles or best practices that I will carry with me on this journey are:
1. Grasping the Basics of Artist Management
2. Assessing the Business State of the Artist’s Career, and lastly
3. Coping With the Stress of Success
Without a foundation, any empire or building is destined to crumble. It is important that like in any career field one desires to go in that the basics and more are covered. By educating myself continuously on artist management will enable me to address issues of all varieties and wear many hats, while remaining grounded and humbled. We’ve all heard the term “Business before Pleasure”, right? Well, in entertainment that is what it is all about. An artist cannot reach ultimate success if their business is not handled and handled correctly. As an artist manager, I will assess the artist and their business mindset, acquire knowledge on what type of business entity is best for the artist, understand and know how to obtain the proper insurance, secure an accountant/bookkeeper and an attorney. Again, it’s all about education and experience. How does one cope with the stress of success? Yes, I know that we should remain humble during and after the climb to stardom but how? I have found that the key to coping with stress is being realistic in your expectations, prioritizing and recognizing your priorities. In order for an artist to truly be successful they have to know what success is not. Coping with stress stretches far beyond being an artist because at the end of the day you are still human. Take some time out and relax, exercise, and get the proper amount of nutrients. This goes for the artist and the manager. It is all about the teamwork