How to Find a Music Manager in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide for Independent Artists)
In 2025, the music industry continues to evolve — and so does the role of a music manager. Whether you're a rising independent artist, band, or producer, finding the right music manager can take your career from promising to professional.
But do you need one yet? And how do you actually find someone who believes in your vision, connects you to opportunities, and helps manage your growth?
This guide breaks down exactly how to find a music manager in 2025, what to look for, where to start your search, and how to attract someone who’s invested in your success — not just your streams.
🎯 Do You Need a Music Manager in 2025?
A music manager is not just a luxury — they’re often the missing link between DIY hustle and scalable success. But that doesn’t mean every artist is ready for one.
✅ Signs You Might Be Ready for a Manager:
You’re overwhelmed managing gigs, releases, PR, and marketing solo.
Your music is gaining traction — fans, streams, bookings — and you need support.
You’re ready to scale, but don’t have the industry contacts or strategy to grow fast.
You’ve monetized your music and want to build sustainable income streams.
If none of this describes you yet, focus first on building your brand, audience, and music catalog. A manager can accelerate momentum, but not manufacture it from scratch.
🔍 What Does a Music Manager Do?
In 2025, the job of a music manager is more strategic and tech-savvy than ever.
Key Roles of a Modern Music Manager:
Plans your releases, tours, and long-term career roadmap.
Builds relationships with labels, DSPs, press, influencers, and brands.
Helps you get playlisted, published, and booked.
Manages your team (e.g. publicists, content creators, booking agents).
Tracks data, budgets, and revenue to grow your business.
Acts as your sounding board and advocate — both creatively and commercially.
✅ Remember: A great manager works with you — not for you. They’re not just assistants, they’re business partners.
🔑 How to Find the Right Music Manager in 2025
Now that you’re ready, here’s how to start your search and make the right connection.
1. Build Leverage First
Managers want to see you’re serious. Start by:
Releasing consistent, high-quality music
Growing a fanbase (Spotify, TikTok, Instagram, Discord, etc.)
Playing live shows or building buzz online
Earning some revenue (merch, sync, streaming)
Pro tip: Managers don’t “discover” you — they notice you when you create movement.
2. Tap Into Your Network
The best music manager relationships often come through referrals.
Ask fellow artists who manages them.
Attend music conferences, industry meetups, and live gigs.
Join online communities (like Discord servers, Reddit subs, or niche music forums).
“Being introduced and validated by another artist or insider always helps — whether that’s through socials or real-world events.”
— Mike Murphy, Ditto Management
3. Do Your Research
Look into managers or indie agencies working with artists at your level or just above.
Follow them on social media.
Study their roster and recent campaigns.
Reach out with a brief, professional email or DM:
Include your bio, links to music, key stats (streams/followers), and recent wins.
Ask for feedback — not a job.
🚫 Avoid mass-emailing everyone. Build a connection first. Managers are busy — but they’re always scouting for artists who have it.
4. Try Music Management Platforms
In 2025, artist discovery is more tech-driven than ever. Use platforms like:
Groover, SubmitHub, and PlaylistPush (to build buzz)
Artlist, SoundBetter, or Upwork (for hiring freelance strategists or project managers short-term)
LinkedIn (yes, seriously — a lot of music professionals use it now)
Clubhouse or X (Twitter) industry spaces
These platforms can help you connect with experienced managers or at least build your team until the right full-time fit comes along.
💬 Can You Hire a Friend as Your Music Manager?
If you have a close friend who’s organized, passionate, and wants to break into the industry — this can work. Many successful manager-artist relationships started that way.
But make sure to:
Set expectations: Define clear roles and goals.
Put it in writing: Even a basic contract is better than none.
Keep it professional: Track results, hold meetings, and revisit your partnership regularly.
Consider a 3–6 month trial period to see if the partnership works before committing long-term.
🚫 What to Avoid When Choosing a Music Manager
Not all managers are created equal. Avoid:
People who don’t love your music
Anyone asking for upfront fees (unless it’s for specific services like PR)
Managers juggling too many acts without results
Poor communicators or anyone vague about their strategy
The best music managers bring value, vision, and accountability.
🎓 Want to Be a Music Manager?
Management is a powerful entry point into the music industry. If you're business-savvy, passionate about music, and want to help artists grow, consider learning the craft:
Take artist management courses (many universities and online platforms offer them)
Start managing a friend’s project or a small artist you believe in
Intern with a music agency, label, or manager
It’s one of the most rewarding — and challenging — careers in the industry.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Music Manager in 2025?
Bringing on a music manager can transform your music career, but only if you’re ready. Build momentum, focus on your craft, and use this guide to find the right partner — not just any manager.
When the time comes, they won’t just help you grow — they’ll help you scale.
✨ Quick Recap: How to Find a Music Manager in 2025
✔ Build momentum first (music, fans, revenue)
✔ Network online and offline with artists and industry folks
✔ Do your research and reach out professionally
✔ Trial partnerships or hire project managers short-term
✔ Only work with someone who believes in your vision
Need help building your artist brand or attracting industry attention?
Check out our other guides on How to Get Playlisted on Spotify in 2025 and How to Promote Music on TikTok.