Why Should You Hold Off on Finding Music Management?

Finding a music manager may seem like an indication that your musical career is on the right path. But, this isn’t always the case. The truth is that finding music management shouldn’t be at the top of your list of priorities – until you can no longer handle the tasks involved in promoting your own music or managing your own career.

So, you shouldn’t rush into a contract or make it your mission to find a manager. Instead, you may want to hold off for a little while. Here are a few benefits of waiting to find music management.

You’ll Learn More About Booking a Gig

When you take matters into your own hands, you’ll need to book your own gigs. While you may already have dealt with this on occasion, taking your time to find a music manager will give you more opportunities to learn what it takes to book gigs.

How does this benefit you in the long run? By learning how to book gigs, you’ll know whether your band manager is doing everything in his power to help you get new gigs.

You’ll Learn More About Music Promotion

Another aspect of the music business that you’ll become more familiar with is music promotion. You’ll need to promote your own music. This includes the use of social media marketing and uploading your music to online streaming sites.

When it comes to music promotion, you can learn a lot from online marketing blogs and resources. Treat your music like a business. Learn more about online marketing and how to use to promote your music.

How does this benefit you in the long run? Again, you’ll learn what’s involved in promoting music. You’ll have a better idea of what resources are available and how to get your music out to the public.

You’ll Be Able to Develop Your Sound and Improve Your Music

Most managers are not willing to work with a band or artist that doesn’t have their own sound. You need to determine what it is that sets you apart from other artists. Holding off on finding a music manager gives you the time that you need to work this out.

You should always be honest with yourself. If you don’t think you’re playing at a professional level, then there’s no reason to start working with a manager yet. Spend your time perfecting your music. Improve your music and develop your sound.

How does this benefit you in the long run? By taking the time to focus on your actual music, you’ll be better equipped to take the world by storm when you finally find a music manager.

You May Find That You Don’t Need a Music Manager

Through this process, you may come to the realization that you don’t need a manager. If you can book gigs and promote your music, and still have time to focus on your music, then a manager will not bring much else to the table.

Managers can help with these areas, while also opening up doors to potential recording contracts or record deals. But, they are not the ultimate solution for helping you succeed.

How does this benefit you in the long run? The longer you wait to find a manager, the more you will learn. A successful indie act that can juggle all the tasks involved in working in the music industry may not even need a manager.

The following video breaks down a few key points that will help you determine when it’s the right time to get a manager. While the video is intended for rappers, the same basic principles apply across genres:

Final Thoughts on Finding Music Management

In the end, by holding off on finding music management, you’ll discover a lot about yourself and the music industry. The more you know the better prepared you will be to actually work with a manager.

Basically, you will know what to look for in the right manager. Also, you’ll be able to judge the performance of your manager. You’ll know whether he or she is working hard to help your band succeed.

So, when should you start working with a band manager? If you really focus on the areas discussed, then a manager may not be necessary until you need help balancing all these tasks.

When you require help reaching out to new markets or feel that you’ve grown your reputation enough to make money through a recording contract, then it may be time to start looking for music management. Though, you also need to remember that when the time is right you should have music managers lining up to work with you.

If you want even more tips and advice on promoting your music or working with a manager, then check out our guide – Music Management for the Indie Artist.

Source: ArtistPR Music Manager