David Lai, a manager at Park Avenue Artists with A&R experience at Sony Music, and Ross Michaels, a partner focusing on innovative project development, share insights on the evolution of artist management. They discuss the shift from securing record deals to a comprehensive strategy that encompasses social media, project development, and traditional label roles. The duo highlights the importance of balancing artist autonomy with managerial guidance and the innovative opportunities that technology brings to the music industry, including evolving business models and brand collaborations.
The role of artist management has evolved beyond securing record deals to actively guiding artists through project development and social media engagement.
Partnerships with brands are now essential, as managers help identify collaborations that enhance an artist's image and secure funding for creative projects.
Deep dives
Innovative Directions in Artist Management
The traditional role of artist management is evolving significantly as practitioners adapt to technological advancements and changes within the music industry. Management now encompasses not just securing record deals but also actively engaging in the artistic development of projects, from virtual instruments to mixed reality experiences. This shift reflects a recognition that artist management must take on more responsibilities as record labels have diminished in influence and function. By focusing on diverse creative projects that align with the artistic interests of the artists, managers can provide more comprehensive support to grow artists’ careers in innovative ways.
Navigating New Opportunities and Challenges
Artists today face an expanding array of opportunities and challenges that require managers to adopt a much more involved role from the outset. The democratization of music distribution has enabled artists to reach audiences directly without relying on traditional gatekeepers, allowing managers to explore partnerships beyond conventional methods. Managers are being asked to not only advise but also facilitate the technical aspects of music production and distribution while helping artists navigate their choices among increasingly complex marketing and funding landscapes. As a result, the role of management is becoming more multifaceted, encouraging a collaborative approach where both the artist and manager contribute to the overarching strategy for success.
The Importance of Strategic Partnerships
Partnerships with brands and businesses have become integral to the modern music industry, allowing artists to amplify their work while also securing funding for various creative endeavors. Managers are tasked with identifying brand collaborations that resonate authentically with the artist's image and values, ensuring that any partnerships enhance rather than compromise the artist's artistic integrity. This shift indicates a changing perception of brand associations, as collaborations can now serve as avenues for artistic expression rather than mere promotional tools. By navigating these relationships thoughtfully, artist managers can open new pathways for exposure and growth while maintaining an artist’s credibility.
Harnessing Technology for Creative Innovation
Technological advancements have significantly impacted how music is produced, marketed, and distributed, presenting managers and artists with many new tools to explore. This includes emerging opportunities in areas like virtual reality, digital audio software, and artificial intelligence, which can elevate an artist's creative output and broaden their audience engagement. Furthermore, the integration of technology into music production has led to innovative projects that were previously unimaginable, creating unique experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. Managers must stay attuned to these developments to leverage technological innovations effectively, ensuring that their artists remain relevant and competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.
Today Tristra talks with David Lai and Ross Michaels of Park Avenue Artists. They talk about the evolving landscape of artist management – which requires a comprehensive strategy, far beyond simply securing record deals. Management today can be called upon to guide an artist through project development, and social media engagement – as well as encompass roles traditionally held by record labels, such as assisting artists with recording, distributing, and promoting their music – expanding the very definition of artist management.
The Music Tectonics podcast goes beneath the surface of the music industry to explore how technology is changing the way business gets done. Visit musictectonics.com to find shownotes and a transcript for this episode, and find us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Let us know what you think!
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode