The Manager's Playbook

Before the billion-dollar empire, Jay-Z was just an overlooked artist with a brilliant album, and no U.S. label willing to take the risk.In this episode, Nick Raphael, former President of Capitol Records UK, shares the inside story of how he and Christian Tattersfield signed Jay-Z in 1996 from a small office in London. It’s a raw look at what it means to trust your instinct and bet big when everyone else says no.Nick walks us through the unconventional journey: cold-calling Damon Dash, researching Jay’s buzz through record shops, and watching an artist turn early rejection into generational leverage. It’s a powerful reminder that vision, grit, and timing still matter more than hype.This is how legends are made, and why most execs missed it.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4g8IgvdCYzvpVPHiKUXS43?si=ietm7srSRX6hQv9Nt5nh6QWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode, Nick Raphael, former President of Capitol Records UK, pulls back the curtain on what actually makes or breaks an artist’s career.It’s not just about talent. It’s about having the right manager, the right strategy, and the ability to build meaningful connections. Nick unpacks why likability often beats raw skill, how inexperience at the management level can derail momentum, and why major labels still play a vital role in breaking global acts.We also get into the concept of “concentric circles” of influence, and why your team’s reach, experience, and credibility matter more than you think.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4g8IgvdCYzvpVPHiKUXS43?si=ietm7srSRX6hQv9Nt5nh6QWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode, Nick Raphael, former President of Capitol Records UK, uncovers a core truth of the music business: a hit record means nothing without the right artist.We dive into why some tracks never break through, even when they’re brilliant, and why fan connection, team alignment, and timing can turn a decent song into a global moment. Nick shares the story behind Empire State of Mind, explains how artist-first thinking drives success, and reveals the deeper strategy behind building lasting careers.Plus, we explore the rise of the independent middle class in music and how Nick’s latest venture is redefining what a modern label can look like, with a tight team and big results.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4g8IgvdCYzvpVPHiKUXS43?si=ietm7srSRX6hQv9Nt5nh6QWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode, legendary filmmaker Director X breaks down how to cut through the noise in a content-heavy world, and why the best visuals aren’t always the most expensive.From using real locations and dynamic transitions to anchoring every shot in emotional truth, X reveals how resourceful creativity wins. But beyond technique, this episode is a deeper dive into the mindset behind iconic visuals.We trace X’s journey from comic book dreams to directing for Jay-Z and beyond, exploring how fear, persistence, and pure passion shape a creative career. It’s a blueprint for anyone looking to make meaningful work and stay inspired in an industry that never slows down.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6JvlRp7G633z77Vvk34jHN?si=z9Dj1Qr4RzGmUEmTZrjRSQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode, legendary music video director Director X breaks down the role of music videos in 2024, and why they still matter in a world dominated by streamers and short-form content.From drawing out deeply personal performances from artists like Usher and Zayn to recounting the untold stories behind shelved big-budget productions, X shares what really happens behind the lens. He also reflects on how the industry shifted from extravagant productions to refined, intentional storytelling, and what that means for artists today.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6JvlRp7G633z77Vvk34jHN?si=z9Dj1Qr4RzGmUEmTZrjRSQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Ruiz and Byron take you on a journey through the discovery and management of the phenomenal Jessie Reyez. It all began in 2013 with a serendipitous Facebook connection that led to an unexpected musical spark. They share the thrilling tension of first hearing Jessie's raw talent, her voice so unique, Ruiz, then manager of Jessie and now host of The Manager’s Playbook Podcast, initially hesitated to share it. As they reflect on their evolving bond with Jessie, they recount pivotal moments like the release of her soul-stirring anthem Figures, a track they knew would disrupt the industry. Dive into the behind-the-scenes moments that shaped Jessie's rise, as they reveal the relentless belief that fueled their journey and Jessie's path to stardom.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/31MpAcVnF0tgKN0s7gXQuy?si=jJFVNrWrQfmaxBkHZ8HyzAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this no-fluff episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Byron Wilson breaks down what most labels won’t say out loud: the real grind behind building a music career.From signing deals to hitting the road, we explore why autonomy is everything, how touring and merch often pay more than streaming, and why going viral isn’t random—it’s strategy meeting preparation. You’ll hear how opening slots can become career accelerators and how smart artists turn unfamiliar crowds into loyal fans.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/31MpAcVnF0tgKN0s7gXQuy?si=jJFVNrWrQfmaxBkHZ8HyzAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz and Byron Wilson reflect on the unexpected journey that led them to discover and develop Jessie Reyez, one of the most distinctive voices in music today.It began in 2013 with a Facebook connection that sparked something rare. From first hearing her voice and sensing both excitement and hesitation, to witnessing the viral impact of “Figures,” Ruiz and Wilson share the pivotal choices, risks, and defining moments that shaped Jessie’s path.This conversation dives into what it takes to truly bet on an artist, how they navigated early wins without a label, and the kind of belief that turns raw talent into a movement.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/31MpAcVnF0tgKN0s7gXQuy?si=jJFVNrWrQfmaxBkHZ8HyzAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, we sit down with legendary music executive Nick Raphael, whose journey spans signing Jay Z, launching Sam Smith, and leading Capitol UK before founding his own indie powerhouse.Nick opens up about navigating a health crisis in 2013 and returning stronger with global hits. He shares how streaming transformed music distribution and why today’s artists need more than talent - they need focus, narrative, and direct connection with their audience.We explore what it means to build long-term careers outside the traditional label machine and why the modern artist-manager relationship is evolving fast. Insightful, honest, and loaded with strategic gems.Watch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Go behind the scenes of high-stakes music management with Cory Litwin - the powerhouse manager behind Murda Beatz and other top producers.In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Cory breaks down how to land major record placements, negotiate complex contracts, and secure fair splits in songwriting and publishing.From protecting your clients to building industry-shifting relationships, this conversation is packed with real-world tactics on negotiation, deal-making, and entertainment law.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify-https://open.spotify.com/episode/3E6vEdR83gfPkaMf8Wa4Lo?si=4H6V_j1jQPag0CEx7v7-zQWatch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook