a: In my experience management comes later, once you’ve managed to build your profile to a certain level yourself and to build you touring (with an agent or alone) to a level where there’s a big enough ‘business’ around you as an artist that it makes sense to bring someone else in to help you manage that. Unless you’re super lucky and find an established manager looking for a new challenge or passion project, that’s where you’d need to be first. And, as such, you’ll probably be aware of those reputable managers when the time is right, from having built a strong network and put yourself out there.

b: as above, you should get to know any possible manager – both personally and from asking around – before starting an official relationship. Sending an email and getting a (reputable) manager doesn’t really happen.

c: Anything, aside from booking gigs, to help you progress your career. That could be lots of different things depending on the artist and the career goals. I talk about that here: https://jazzfuel.com/booking-agent-vs-music-manager/

d: same as any business relationship I guess! Namely, it’s no longer adding something positive or useful to your career and/or you have a better offer that you can’t refuse. Manager/artist is a close relationship. I think you’ll know when it’s time to move on.

Matt, I would love to know if you have any advice on:
a. seeking reputable management
b. how to check a management company or manager out before working with them
c. what does a good manager do for you
d. how to know when it’s time to sever ties

Thanks Michele! Yes, I guess it’s tricky to distil such a big and important issue. Would be interesting to hear from any promoters reading this what their ideas are about that too, feels like it needs a community effort!

Thanks Angie!