What does an artist manager do?

An artist manager guides a musician’s career both strategically and operationally. They help define goals, negotiate deals, coordinate a team, and build a brand that attracts fans and industry partners. Their job is to make sure every move contributes to your long-term success — so you can focus on creating music.

Not right away. Early on, many artists self-manage while building traction — releasing songs, pitching playlists, and growing an audience. But once opportunities multiply (bookings, label talks, collaborations), having a manager helps you prioritize and scale. You can also find verified managers directly on Groover’s platform, where professionals discover new talent daily.

Most managers earn a commission between 10% and 20% of your gross revenue. This can vary depending on your deal, experience, and workload. The key is transparency — a clear written agreement that defines what’s included in their commission (like live shows, syncs, or merch).

Start by looking for someone who genuinely connects with your vision. A good manager believes in your music before the numbers. You can meet professionals by performing live, networking at events, or using dedicated platforms like Groover, where artists can send their music directly to verified managers, labels, and playlist curators.

A mix of business sense, communication skills, and empathy. The best managers balance creativity with structure — they can read contracts, spot opportunities, handle negotiations, and still understand your artistic process. Trust is the foundation: you’re building a career together, not just running a project.

A manager oversees your entire career strategy, while a booking agent focuses solely on live shows and touring opportunities. Think of your manager as the general manager of your career — coordinating the agents, labels, and partners who help you grow.

When you’ve built enough momentum that opportunities start piling up and you can’t handle them all efficiently. If you’re getting traction with releases, press, or fan growth, it’s a good sign you’re ready to bring someone in to help organize and amplify that momentum.

Yes — Groover connects emerging artists with verified industry pros, including artist managers, labels, media, and curators. You can send your track, get guaranteed feedback, and start building professional relationships that lead to real opportunities.