The Manager's Playbook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Ray Daniels and I break down the real difference between pop and urban splits and how the same record can pay out very differently depending on who’s involved.We unpack the math behind a triple platinum hit, talk producer and publishing cuts, and explore what every artist and manager needs to understand about the business behind the music.Plus, a look at Lizzo’s early career and how finding the right audience changed everything.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn’t come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/03kZeeVImpMwMDmv8R2RyX?si=TbPhKp-_Tki18psuvHKelgWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Ray Daniels has seen every corner of the music business, from making hits to being blackballed, from major label boardrooms to building R.A.Y.D.A.R. Management from the ground up.In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Ray gets real about what it takes to survive, and last, in an industry that changes fast. We talk managing talent like Theron Thomas, how A&R shifted with data, and why the future belongs to artists who understand both science and storytelling.No fluff. Just hard-earned lessons on equity, authenticity, and building with intention.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Watch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Russ shares the emotional cost of success and the internal reset that followed. From confronting public perception to redefining identity, he unpacks the deeper work that’s shaped his evolution as both an artist and a man.We talk emotional boundaries, mentorship, inner child healing, and what it takes to grow when the spotlight isn’t flattering.This isn’t just about the industry. It’s about becoming whole, on your own terms.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5SxBb61ZDrvXK3VIxPw5EB?si=oeEDQIJWS1WaFsTKybcPxgWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Russ opens up about the pivotal moments that built his career. From Bugus filing the LLC at 18, to staying focused when things almost unraveled, to why a $250 check still means more to him than a $600K payout.This is the part of the journey most people don’t see: the loyalty, the small wins, and the grit behind the scenes that made everything else possible.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5SxBb61ZDrvXK3VIxPw5EB?si=oeEDQIJWS1WaFsTKybcPxgWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Russ shares the story behind one of the most unconventional label deals in the industry.He went from making $100K/month independently to partnering with Columbia, without giving up control. Russ breaks down how he retained ownership of his TuneCore catalog, structured profit splits, and built a system that still brings in seven figures a month from masters alone.This isn’t hype. It’s a real blueprint for ownership, leverage, and long-term strategy.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5SxBb61ZDrvXK3VIxPw5EB?si=oeEDQIJWS1WaFsTKybcPxgWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Russ delivers a hard truth: success isn’t about big budgets or major connections. It’s about clarity, consistency, and calling yourself out.He shares why even $100K won’t help if the music’s not ready, how building a home studio is a non-negotiable move, and why self-delusion is the silent killer of most careers.If you’re serious about leveling up, this is the mirror moment every artist needs.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5SxBb61ZDrvXK3VIxPw5EB?si=oeEDQIJWS1WaFsTKybcPxgWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Russ gets real about what it takes to build a $100M career as a fully independent artist.From owning 100% of his masters to mastering the mental game, Russ shares how he built a massive global audience without a label, why visuals are key to longevity, and how staying grounded has been his greatest strategy.We dive into the business side of being an artist: revenue, fan engagement, team dynamics, and the value of never selling out. Whether you’re an artist, manager, or builder in the creator economy, this episode is packed with practical gems and hard-won wisdom.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Watch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Jessie Reyez joins Byron Wilson and myself to trace the rise of a movement, how the Remix Project in Toronto became a launchpad for global talent and real career growth.From a last-minute application to life-changing studio sessions, we dive into the power of mentorship, community, and creative momentum. The conversation spotlights key moments—like early collaborations with King Louie and Chance the Rapper, that helped expand reach and reshape futures.More than a music story, this is a testament to what happens when talent meets opportunity and why investing in people always pays off.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hAbFlAG4IT6uL0MTaZEQR?si=4a40xtKHSEKbCJWS_JwG0wWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip, Jessie Reyez joins Mauricio Ruiz and Byron Wilson to break down the power of leverage, the value of numbers, and why no artist wins alone.They explore how building community and owning your data gives artists real negotiating power, especially when stepping into label conversations. Jessie shares her experience sitting across from Sir Lucian Grainge and how clarity and confidence helped her take control of the moment.From team trust to long-game strategy, this conversation is packed with honest insights and hard-earned lessons for artists, managers, and anyone building something that lasts.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2hAbFlAG4IT6uL0MTaZEQR?si=4a40xtKHSEKbCJWS_JwG0wWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Zach Katz shares the story behind one of the boldest moves in his career: leaving his role as President of BMG North America to co-found Raised in Space with Scooter Braun.Why walk away from the top? To reimagine what the music industry could be.Zach opens up about the emotional and strategic thinking behind his pivot, and the lessons learned from trading stability for innovation in service of artists. It’s a rare look at leadership, risk, and long-term vision.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/1RUxN34JoqHYCsUZTldXRW?si=cnwTek1cRB2pQc1_20KSbgWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook