A talent manager, also known as a personal manager, is one who guides the career of artists in the entertainment business. The responsibility of the talent manager is to oversee the day to day business affairs of an artist; to advise and counsel talent about professional matters and personal decisions which may affect their career.

The roles and responsibilities of a manager vary slightly from industry to industry, as do the commissions to which the manager is entitled. Music managers duties differ from those who advise actors, writers, directors, etc.

Music managers can manage Bands, singers and DJs. The role of a music manager is extensive, oftentimes tasks are divided among personal managers, business managers, tour managers, agents, bookers, and promoters.

Early on in an artist's career, the different facets of management and marketing falls upon either the band itself or, if they have one, the manager. Because the band or artist is relatively unknown, promotion, booking, and touring are minimal. When starting off, a new music manager should establish a clear understanding of what the artist(s) want. This can be done through a written or verbal contract. A music managers' first task should be focused around a CD launch.

Rates should be clearly stated initially. A good manager should understand the artist's perspective. A new manager has no experience or clout. In a band of six members, each member might receive less than the manger (who normally gets 15%). A tentative agreement, which can be renegotiated at a later date is often best. Managers who insist on a number that the band does not agree with can expect to be let go at the first convenient opportunity.

It is important for a band to have experience in front of crowds. Fundraisers and talent shows are good experience and do not require a lot of commitment (in terms of fan pull) on the part of the artist. If the artist wants a gig in a pub or bar, expect there to be conditions. The following is a list of questions asked by bar owners/managers (in order of importance).

What kind of music?
How many people can you bring?

That's all. In some cases they may ask for a demo (a recording of four of the artists' best songs). The main objective for the bar owner is to fill their floor on any given night. They don't care if you're terrible they just want to see numbers. Under 75 people is generally frowned upon and will result in a minimum fee. A minimum fee could be upwards of $100. Some bar owners will waive or reduce their $100, $200, or $300 charge if the artist can pull in a significant number of people (predetermined during negotiations-usually a handshake).

Recording studio
If the artist does not have a recording studio (i.e. a buddy's basement) then the manager should take this on. If artists have contacts managers should use them. His job is to get the band the best rate possible.

Photography
While the artist is recording, a photographer should be searched. Pictures of the artist can be used for web sites, CD labels/jackets, posters, and press kit. Cost for high quality rolls of film and their processing could be upwards of $200 for 150 pictures (labor not included). Finding a photographer friend is helpful but don't expect him or her to cover material cost. Have the photographs taken before your CD designs or artwork go into production.

CD production
Also while the CD is being recorded a CD production company should be found. CD production is when an artist takes their burned CD recording to a company to have it mass produced. The company will also make the CD jackets and labels once you provide the design or artwork. This is where the artist should expect to invest heavily. Up to $1,000 is not uncommon for 500 manufactured CDs. Again connections come in handy.

CD launch venue
Once a production date is given you can safely go out searching venues. CD launches are more attractive to bar owners because it nearly guarantees an audience. Consequently CD launch venues are relatively easy to land. Try to book a place where the crowd will feel good walking into and out of. Presentation is everything. The crowd should be talking about the artist on arrival; not the crappy conditions of the neighborhood or bar. The size of the venue should be relative to your means. If the place is too big, the artist will look unimportant. A small place can be a good thing. Just make sure the stage can fit the band's gear.

Press Kit
Once a CD launch date is established a press kit should be prepared. The press kit is used to contact the press to promote the band. By this stage in the artist's career they should have a good grasp of their level of talent . A press kit consists of:

Pamphlet with artist(s) biography, career highlights and pictures.
A written article about the artist that the press can easily edit and submit in their paper (less work for them).
A demo CD (in some cases the entire CD should be sent so the magazine/newspaper/radio station can review the entire CD.
Two tickets to the CD launch (if there is one)
It is important for the press kit to be flashy and attractive. It does not have to be expensive.

Musicians: Search for managers & agents
ATTENTION: Musicians & DJs
Each DJs career relies on the ability of their agent or manager. All famous DJs have a manager or a management group that represents them. Your manager is responsible on getting you bookings and usually they will take 10 - 20% of the booking amount. They will also negotiate a better deal then a dj can on his own. If you are looking for representation please post your dj info and request to be reviewed by managers.

Managers: Submit manager's info FREE
ATTENTION: Managers
Everyone is looking to establish new connections in the industry. We want to help new & experienced talent establish strong representation in the industry. If you represent a management company or agency involved in booking talent , you may submit your information to us and we will post it. DJs that are looking for representation will be able to send you their demos for your review