The Manager’s Playbook 015: Natalie Prospere – From Social Work to Grammy Awards, Artist Advocacy, Resilience, Building Careers, Music Strategy, and Championing Authentic Voices
Dec 23, 2024
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In this engaging conversation, Natalie Prospere, a trailblazer in the music industry and co-founder of Good Company Records, shares her inspiring transition from social work to managing Grammy-winning artists. She candidly discusses the complexities of artist advocacy, the emotional toll of her past career, and the cultural influences that shaped her values. Explore the challenges of navigating relationships and trust in the music world while discovering how genuine connections can redefine success in an often chaotic industry.
Natalie Prosper's unique journey from social work to the music industry highlights the importance of resilience and following one's passion.
The podcast emphasizes authentic relationships in artist management, underscoring managers' roles in advocating for and representing artists' true visions.
A significant theme discussed is the mental health challenges faced by those in the music industry, necessitating work-life balance and self-care.
Maintaining creative ownership is crucial in the music business, empowering artists and managers to secure their legacies and success.
Deep dives
The Price of Fame
Fame often comes with hidden costs that many aspire to attain but may not fully comprehend. The podcast discusses how artists are placed on pedestals, leading both them and the public to elevate their status to an unhealthy level. This dynamic can create an environment where artists struggle to maintain their authenticity and can become overwhelmed by expectations, making it important to have a support system that keeps them grounded. The reality is that not everyone survives the challenges of fame, and a significant number of those who achieve it may end up feeling isolated and disconnected.
Creating Connections in the Industry
The conversation highlights the vital role of relationships in the music business, particularly between artists and their managers. With real connections, managers can advocate for their clients more effectively, ensuring that their unique voices and visions are represented accurately. The podcast also emphasizes the importance of supporting artists in their creative endeavors while fostering an environment where they can thrive. Having managers who believe in their potential can significantly impact an artist's trajectory and overall success.
The Journey of Natalia Prosper
Natalia Prosper's background is revealed as a key element in her approach to artist management. Growing up in a musical family, she was immersed in the world of music from a young age, which laid the foundation for her career. Despite facing initial challenges with traditional education and confidence, she found her place behind the scenes in the industry, ultimately leading to a successful management career. Her journey showcases the idea that passion and perseverance can lead to a fulfilling career, even when the path isn't straightforward.
Navigating the Music Industry's Challenges
The discussion explores the mental and emotional toll that working in the music industry can take on individuals, particularly those in management roles. As many managers invest heavily in the success of their artists, the pressure can become overwhelming, leading to burnout and resentment if artists do not recognize their efforts. The need for proper boundaries and self-care is emphasized, as maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for anyone involved in the music business. Ultimately, the podcast stresses the importance of supporting each other and staying true to oneself amidst industry pressures.
Building Authentic Brands
When it comes to establishing a successful artist brand, authenticity is crucial. The podcast underscores the need for artists to remain true to themselves while navigating their careers, as genuine connections with fans can foster long-lasting relationships. The role of a manager is to identify and promote this authenticity, working alongside the artist to ensure that their unique story is conveyed. In a music landscape filled with trends, building a brand that resonates with purpose and intention can set an artist apart from the competition.
The Evolution of Relationships
The importance of evolving relationships between managers and artists is highlighted in the episode, as both parties must be aligned in their goals for a successful partnership. Managers sometimes face the challenge of artists wanting more autonomy as their careers progress, leading to potential tensions. The discussion encourages open communication and mutual respect, emphasizing that a productive partnership requires trust and understanding from both sides. The ability for both artists and managers to recognize when changes are needed can lead to growth and enhanced collaboration.
Intellectual Property and Ownership
The need for ownership in the music industry is a central theme of the conversation, with the hosts discussing how creative professionals can secure their futures through intellectual property. Having equity in the work produced allows managers and artists to navigate the business landscape more effectively, ensuring that success translates into real advancements for both parties. Starting their own label provides a platform for artists to maintain creative control and build a legacy. The podcast illustrates how fostering a culture of ownership can lead to sustainable success for creatives in the music industry.
Step into the world of Natalie Prosper in this unfiltered, inspiring interview as she reveals her journey from a driven social worker to a trailblazer in the music industry. Natalie shares how her Caribbean roots and church upbringing shaped her approach to managing Grammy-winning talent like Lucky Daye, Dee Mile, and Camper, and how she co-founded Good Company Records with the Walt Disney Group.
Discover the untold stories of navigating the highs and lows of the music business, advocating for artists in an often-overlooked industry, and witnessing musical greatness alongside icons like Ne-Yo and Harmony Samuels. Natalie opens up about her early days in artist management, the emotional toll of social work, and the bold decisions that propelled her career forward.
Packed with hard truths, invaluable lessons, and behind-the-scenes insights, this episode is a must-watch for aspiring managers, music enthusiasts, and dream-chasers alike. See why Natalie Prosper is redefining leadership in music and learn what it takes to build a lasting impact in the industry.
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