The Manager's Playbook

How do you go from throwing parties to managing major artists? Cory Litwin has the blueprint.In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Cory shares his journey from club promotions to working with Murda Beatz, Roy Woods, Jessie Reyez. And even closing deals with legends like Snoop Dogg.From bold networking moves to brand-building (yes, even custom grills), Cory drops real-world gems on what it takes to stand out and succeed in the music industry.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

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Former SVP of Interscope Records, Nick Groff, unpacks the modern manager’s role, especially in today’s independent landscape.From handling distribution and tour logistics to navigating brand strategy, social media, and global team building, Nick breaks down the expanded responsibilities and rising pressures facing artist managers today.We also dig into equity, commission models, and why strategic alignment between artist and manager is more important than ever.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify-https://open.spotify.com/episode/1BgK17QLP3sNecgxgQMQWK?si=9dnmbU4HQ4eNbfYuHlxAtAWatch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Former SVP of Interscope Records, Nick Groff, breaks down what every artist and manager should understand before signing a major label deal.From creative control to recoupment terms, he unpacks the details that can make or break a career and the common points of tension between artists and labels. We dive into smart negotiation, building the right team, and how to approach deals with leverage and clarity.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify-https://open.spotify.com/episode/1BgK17QLP3sNecgxgQMQWK?si=9dnmbU4HQ4eNbfYuHlxAtAWatch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Nick Groff shares his unfiltered journey from unpaid intern to shaping major releases at Interscope Records.He breaks down the real moves that opened doors: building trust, creating value before having a title, and learning to recognize hits before anyone else. It’s a raw, behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to break into the music industry and rise through the ranks.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify-https://open.spotify.com/episode/1BgK17QLP3sNecgxgQMQWK?si=9dnmbU4HQ4eNbfYuHlxAtAWatch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

On this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, former Interscope SVP Nick Groff pulls back the curtain on the evolving role of A&R at the major-label level.With a career that includes work with Billie Eilish, Avicii, Jacob Collier, and MGK, Nick shares what it really takes to spot talent, develop artists, and balance passion with data in today’s fast-moving industry.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify-https://open.spotify.com/episode/1BgK17QLP3sNecgxgQMQWK?si=9dnmbU4HQ4eNbfYuHlxAtAWatch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Kardinal Offishall joins Ruiz on The Manager’s Playbook to share his evolution from chart-topping artist to global music executive.In this episode, Kardinal walks us through his journey from Universal Canada to becoming Global A&R Director at Def Jam. He opens up about the value of a global perspective, the role of travel in shaping his career, and how building international relationships has helped him spot talent on a worldwide scale.A must-listen for anyone aiming to lead on a bigger stage.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify-https://open.spotify.com/episode/2vNgoopKDPLhqFvc5phdiG?si=Y2u7aCcZT8y-RBv60_DmHwWatch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Kardinal Offishall joins Ruiz on The Manager’s Playbook to explore the powerful intersection of creativity and commerce in the music industry.In this episode, Kardinal breaks down the delicate balance between artistic expression and business strategy, likening artists to magicians and executives to scientists. He shares personal insights on authenticity, navigating industry pressures, and building real connections in a space that often rewards illusion.For artists and managers alike, this is a reminder that lasting success comes from mastering both sides of the game.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify-https://open.spotify.com/episode/2vNgoopKDPLhqFvc5phdiG?si=Y2u7aCcZT8y-RBv60_DmHwWatch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

On this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Kardinal Offishall shares what it really takes to spot future stars before the world catches on.From discovering talents like Sean Paul, Estelle, Alex Da Kid, and even Rihanna, Kardinal reflects on the instincts, risks, and relationships that shaped his journey as a visionary A&R executive.This conversation dives into the art of identifying potential, the weight of early belief, and why strong connections are key in the music business.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify-https://open.spotify.com/episode/2vNgoopKDPLhqFvc5phdiG?si=Y2u7aCcZT8y-RBv60_DmHwWatch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Kardinal Offishall joins Ruiz on The Manager’s Playbook to unpack the real challenges artists and managers face behind the scenes of the music industry.From favouritism and blackballing to the fine print of label deals, Kardinal breaks it all down with hard truths and real-world examples. He dives into the difference between sales and streaming, the role of leverage in negotiations, and why understanding your contract is non-negotiable.A must-listen for anyone navigating the business side of music.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify-https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/6VcC5BpRcTbhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/2vNgoopKDPLhqFvc5phdiG?si=Y2u7aCcZT8y-RBv60_DmHwWatch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this engaging discussion, Nick Groff, a seasoned A&R expert with 16 years at Interscope, shares insights on his work with stars like Billie Eilish and Avicii. He delves into the evolving roles of A&R in balancing creativity with commercial demands and the impact of social media on artist discovery. Groff highlights the importance of genuine artist-fan relationships and offers innovative strategies for deeper engagement. He also emphasizes the significance of dedication in navigating today’s complex music landscape, making this a must-listen for aspiring industry professionals.