The Evolution of Music Business Degrees and Some Management Myths

The idea of music business and entertainment business as a full-scale college degree program is still something that is relatively novel in today's culture. When these programs first started, it was assumed by most that the end result was a bunch of musicians ready to take on the world through touring and record sales. However, the scope of this industry is immensely larger than most can fathom.

Another way to look at this issue is to consider all of the musicians you can possibly think of in your head. Now consider the fact that behind every professional musician, there are teams of business professionals and lawyers that helped that musician get where they are and help them stay in the limelight. Viewing the music industry in this way proves the point that there is an extensive business culture intertwined in art of music.

In an article by Rey Sanchez, there is an extensive overview into the limitless possibilities of careers within the music industry. This article contained a quote that I personally take to heart stating; " You don't have to leave music, if that is your love, just because you don't become that star on stage". I have been describing my chosen career path to outsiders for many months now using similar words. I have a deep love and passion for music and just because I may not be an artist myself, I did not want to let that discourage me from being in the music industry.

To wrap up these ideas, I want to dive back into the main subject of this blog, which is the job of being an artist manager. As I've stated before, I feel it is of upmost importance that musicians spend the majority of their time developing and perfecting their creative sound while leaving business matters up to professional music business gurus. The more time musicians spend dealing with issues such as booking, contracts, and promotions, the more their music suffers.

When dealing with the business of artist management, there are many myths and misconceptions that must be abolished. Heather McDonald is a well-established writer who speaks on entertainment business and has many insights into the music business industry specifically. In a recent post on her blog, she looks at some of the myths that are out there.

One of these myths that peaked my interest was the thought that only a high profile, experienced manager can make a positive impact on a band or musician. This is simply not the case. Artists should be more focused on the level of commitment and interest of a manager as opposed to simply their credentials. As I continue to build my own personal management firm, I always keep this in mind. A lesser known or start-up manager can have just as much positive impact on an artist's career as a high-profile one. The important thing to keep in mind is that the amount of belief a manager has about an artist's or band's music is really what is most important. Artists simply need to find a manager that wholeheartedly believes the artist will be successful based on their musical talents.

Another myth in this industry is that artists or bands do not need to run everything by their managers. A manager is only as good as the information he or she is provided with. The communication process between artist and representation may be the most important key to success in many scenarios. Even if something seems unimportant or trivial to an artist, it is of upmost importance to fill in the manager on EVERYTHING. As I said before, let the artists produce their creativity, and let the business people do their business thing.

Thanks again for stopping by and stay tuned for future posts.

DK