For the rest of an artist’s relationship with the company, A&R representatives are heavily involved in setting the course for their career. Artists and Repertoire ManagerĪt a record label, the artists and repertoire (A&R) department identifies and signs new talent. By collaborating with other departments in their company and an artist’s own management team, an ARM keeps everyone on the same page. Artist relations managers (ARMs) act as a main line of communication between the two camps and may become deeply involved in planning initiatives in areas like marketing and publicity. Rather than working for an artist, these professionals may be employed by a record label, a maker of musical equipment or any other company that relies on maintaining a strong connection with musicians, singers, and producers. A business manager often works closely with an artist’s personal manager and entertainment attorney to improve overall earnings. These managers track royalties and other income, conduct negotiations, file tax returns, and oversee payments to third parties. Taking responsibility for an artist’s business affairs requires a knowledge of accounting practices, finance and the law. A manager may work with other stakeholders to plan record releases, tours, and merchandising, as well as identify new revenue streams or creative approaches to promote an artist’s brand. This role involves advocating for a client’s interests in business negotiations and offering guidance and support through every major decision-making process. Personal ManagerĪ personal manager is often the most crucial member of an artist’s support staff, highly involved in setting both the daily agenda and long-term strategy. As of May 2017, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that agents and business managers in the sound recording industries earned an average salary of $75,420. Management professionals can build their own careers by facilitating vital relationships, negotiating agreements, and offering expert advice on business affairs. While some musicians have just one or two trusted advisors, others maintain an extensive staff. Tending to the needs of artists so they can focus on writing, recording, and performing music may require the efforts of several different types of managers. These are some of the most common job titles for professionals who enter careers in music business with a degree in business: Artist Manager It takes individuals with a wide variety of skills to drive successful outcomes for musical artists and organizations such as record labels, music publishing companies, and management firms. What Jobs are There in the Music Industry? Visit our careers page to learn about the services available to online students through Middle Tennessee State University’s Career Development Center. Earning a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Music Business may make it possible to work in a field you’re passionate about while pursuing rewarding opportunities in a variety of different roles and organizations. Business experts who are familiar with advanced concepts in management and finance, as well as the unique characteristics of the recording industry, can have a major role in helping companies and artists thrive.

Professionals build their careers in music business on a foundation of mutually beneficial connections among musicians, record labels, media outlets, and fans. Then there are the other individuals and organizations involved in getting that record pressed to physical media, packaged, released to stores, played on the radio, digitally streamed, and performed live on tour. The music business is all about collaboration, starting with the songwriters, band members, producers, and recording engineers who contribute to creating a piece of music.

Artist and repertoire salary