The Manager's Playbook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, legendary booking agent Tom Windish breaks down what booking agents actually do and why your favourite artists can have streams, press, and viral moments but still struggle to sell tickets.Tom explains how agents help build an artist’s live career, from choosing the right rooms and negotiating fees to working with promoters, planning tours, developing festival opportunities, and turning online attention into real-world demand.We also get into why artist development takes longer now, why managers and artists need more patience, how direct-to-fan data like emails, phone numbers, and ZIP codes can change a touring strategy, and why the artist is often the most important marketer for their own shows.For independent artists, managers, agents, and aspiring music executives, this episode is a real look at the touring business and what it actually takes to build a live career that lasts.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: ⁠⁠⁠https://themanagersplaybook.com/home⁠⁠⁠Get 20% of Magic Mind with code TMP20 ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://magicmind.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://distrokid.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the full episode on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET

Clinton Sparks breaks down how to build a music career people actually remember.In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Clinton shares his formula for winning in the music business, from powerful production and bulletproof business to aggressive visibility, real branding, and monetization.He also explains how “Get Familiar” became bigger than a tag, why independent artists have to think like their own label, and why copying trends usually leads to short-lived careers.A sharp lesson for artists, managers, producers, and music executives on branding, marketing, independence, authenticity, and building something that lasts.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://themanagersplaybook.com/home⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/60xO3CvAdGfeyyFikLsISg?si=yH1urO5uQquBCrTcW0YoJw⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Clinton Sparks breaks down why networking is the piece most people misunderstand.In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Clinton shares how he built a reputation by adding value first, protecting his name, and staying authentic instead of chasing fake momentum.From working at UPS and producing music at night to breaking into radio, landing syndication, and building relationships across the East Coast, this is a real music business lesson on patience, reputation, visibility, and becoming useful before asking for access.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://themanagersplaybook.com/home⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/60xO3CvAdGfeyyFikLsISg?si=yH1urO5uQquBCrTcW0YoJw⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Clinton Sparks breaks down what it really means to do it for the culture.In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Clinton reflects on supporting Clipse’s We Got It For Cheap mixtape series without profiting, spending his own money to press and distribute CDs, and why protecting trust mattered more than chasing a quick win.He also talks about refusing payola, building Mixunit.com, helping DJ Drama and DJ Khaled, and the late-night DJ Kay Slay story that turned into a street classic.A real music business lesson on integrity, mixtape culture, radio, networking, and staying focused on the mission.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://themanagersplaybook.com/home⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/60xO3CvAdGfeyyFikLsISg?si=yH1urO5uQquBCrTcW0YoJwWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Clinton Sparks breaks down the real story behind DJ Snake and Lil Jon’s “Turn Down for What.”In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Clinton shares how he signed DJ Snake in 2007, introduced him to Lil Jon, and watched the record grow from an early idea into a global hit. He also talks about Lil Jon’s guerrilla approach, the behind-the-scenes tension around the song, and why DJ relationships still matter when breaking records.Clinton also reflects on DJ Snake’s drive, his “Bird Machine” breakthrough with Dillon Francis, and the early moments that helped shape his rise from Paris to worldwide success.A sharp look at music business strategy, artist development, networking, and what it really takes to make a record move through culture.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. ⁠⁠⁠https://distrokid.com/⁠⁠Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WkHm0XSp9TX4hbyUCRGxC?si=yepnZQe2QAq1dSPZ0-H66w⁠⁠⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with legendary producer, DJ, songwriter, and entrepreneur Clinton Sparks for a conversation on artist branding, music business relationships, and building a career that lasts.Clinton breaks down what it really means to become a brand, how he built “Get Familiar” into something people remembered, and why the best networking starts with adding value before asking for access.He also shares the story behind working with DJ Snake years before “Turn Down for What,” his role in mixtape culture, the importance of reputation, and why authenticity still matters in an industry full of fake momentum.A must-listen for artists, managers, producers, music executives, and independent creatives trying to build leverage, trust, visibility, and a brand people actually believe in.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: ⁠⁠https://themanagersplaybook.com/home⁠⁠Get 20% of Magic Mind with code TMP20 ⁠⁠⁠https://magicmind.com/⁠⁠⁠Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://distrokid.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the full episode on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Nick Groff breaks down why great artist managers need to think like CEOs, not just operators.Nick and Mauricio Ruiz discuss the modern manager’s role in building artist businesses, aligning teams, protecting long-term vision, and creating real growth around the artist.They also get into equity, IP, joint ventures, manager commissions, hiring for emotional intelligence, building scalable teams, and why instinct is often just experience with better timing.A sharp listen for artists, managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone trying to understand what artist management really looks like today.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: ⁠⁠⁠https://themanagersplaybook.com/home⁠⁠⁠Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WkHm0XSp9TX4hbyUCRGxC?si=yepnZQe2QAq1dSPZ0-H66w⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Nick Groff and Mauricio Ruiz get into the gray area of AI, creativity, and who gets to make music.They discuss whether AI can become a real creative tool for people with ideas but without formal training, while also unpacking the concerns around authorship, devalued music, bad actors, and what “human-made” music even means anymore.From Suno and AI music tools to Timbaland, record labels, the Grammys, Napster, and the future of the music business, this is a sharp conversation about where creativity may be heading next.A must-listen for artists, producers, managers, music executives, and anyone trying to understand AI’s impact on music.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: ⁠⁠⁠https://themanagersplaybook.com/home⁠⁠⁠Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WkHm0XSp9TX4hbyUCRGxC?si=yepnZQe2QAq1dSPZ0-H66w⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Nick Groff breaks down how BUNT. turned a viral moment into a real hard-ticket fanbase.Nick and Ruiz get into the business behind live growth: merch strategy, per-head sales, market-by-market pricing, fan accessibility, Coachella storytelling, and why viral attention does not mean much if it does not turn into real fans.They also discuss how BUNT. approached merch like a brand, priced Mexico City with the local fan in mind, treated Argentina differently as a market, and used intentional live moments to create momentum beyond the algorithm.A sharp listen for artists, managers, music marketers, and aspiring music executives trying to understand touring, fanbase building, and modern artist development.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: ⁠⁠https://themanagersplaybook.com/home⁠⁠Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WkHm0XSp9TX4hbyUCRGxC?si=yepnZQe2QAq1dSPZ0-H66w⁠⁠⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Nick Groff breaks down why modern artist management now looks more like running a media company.Nick and Ruiz get into storytelling, fan acquisition, content flywheels, post-show highlights, and why artists can’t rely on music releases alone to stay connected with their audience.They also discuss what artists can learn from streamers, how Billie Eilish’s “Ocean Eyes” proves the power of context, and how BUNT built its world around clear brand pillars like smile, sweat, squad, and soccer.A sharp listen for artists, managers, music marketers, and aspiring music executives trying to understand how attention works in today’s music business.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. ⁠⁠https://distrokid.com/⁠Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WkHm0XSp9TX4hbyUCRGxC?si=yepnZQe2QAq1dSPZ0-H66w⁠⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Nick Groff returns to The Manager's Playbook, former Interscope and Geffen executive, longtime A&R, entrepreneur, and manager of BUNT.Nick breaks down the modern artist playbook: how managers can build artists like media companies, why storytelling and world-building matter, and how BUNT. went from being dropped to building a global fanbase, selling hundreds of thousands of tickets, and creating real momentum around live shows, merch, content, and community.We get into artist management, fan acquisition, touring strategy, merch, market-by-market pricing, Coachella, AI, the creator economy, and why the modern manager has to think more like a CEO than ever before.A must-listen for artists, managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone trying to understand how the music business really works today.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: ⁠https://themanagersplaybook.com/home⁠Get 20% of Magic Mind with code TMP20 ⁠⁠https://magicmind.com/⁠⁠If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: ⁠⁠⁠https://form.typeform.com/to/JNELnGw9?utm_source=xxxxx&typeform-source=bit.ly#fbclid=xxxxx&gclid=xxxxx⁠⁠⁠Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. ⁠⁠⁠https://distrokid.com/⁠⁠⁠Watch the full episode on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET

Charlie Rocket breaks down why artists and managers need to stop waiting on labels, managers, or industry validation and start building fans first.In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Charlie talks about fan demand, leverage, moving faster, releasing more, and avoiding the trap of getting overwhelmed by industry knowledge before there’s an actual business to protect.He also gets into why travel can help artists spark creativity, change perspective, and find new ideas before a breakthrough.For independent artists, managers, and aspiring music executives, this is a reminder: build the fans first, then let the industry catch up.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: ⁠https://themanagersplaybook.com/home⁠Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WkHm0XSp9TX4hbyUCRGxC?si=yepnZQe2QAq1dSPZ0-H66w⁠⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Charlie Rocket breaks down a real artist growth playbook built on volume, virality, and in-real-life fanbase building.In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Charlie explains how he helped build Travis Porter’s momentum with no big budget, using fast music output, MySpace hustle, local marketing, and real-world events to create demand from the ground up.He gets into the nine-month blitz strategy, why artists need to move faster, how to build local buzz before chasing the whole internet, and why real fanbases are still built person by person.For independent artists, managers, and aspiring music executives, this is a reminder: the internet matters, but the streets still talk.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeListen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WkHm0XSp9TX4hbyUCRGxC?si=yepnZQe2QAq1dSPZ0-H66w⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Charlie Rocket breaks down how artists can build a real superstar brand by giving fans something to belong to.In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Charlie explains why fan names, colors, symbols, emojis, accessories, catchphrases, and ad-libs matter more than most artists think. These are the details that turn passive listeners into real participants.He also talks about why there are no secrets in marketing: study what already works, decode the pattern, and build a world fans can recognize instantly.For independent artists, managers, and aspiring music executives, this is a simple but important reminder: great branding is not just how an artist looks. It’s how fans know they’re part of something.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. ⁠https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WkHm0XSp9TX4hbyUCRGxC?si=yepnZQe2QAq1dSPZ0-H66w⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Charlie Rocket breaks down the problem with viral-first artist development and why chasing views can hurt an artist’s long-term career.In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Charlie explains why artists should not be treated like influencers, how viral trends can damage mystique, and why real fanbase building matters more than empty attention.He also shares how artists, managers, and small teams can use social media, fan pages, and smart content strategy to grow without relying on a record label.For independent artists, artist managers, and aspiring music executives, this is a reminder: views are cool, but fans build careers.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Check out Influur Pulse and stop chasing the moment after it passes: ⁠https://www.influur.com/book-a-demo⁠Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WkHm0XSp9TX4hbyUCRGxC?si=yepnZQe2QAq1dSPZ0-H66wWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Charlie Rocket returns to The Manager’s Playbook with a full breakdown on how artists and managers can build a real fanbase without waiting on the industry.In this episode, Charlie gets into the Law of 62, why pace matters more than slow consistency, how to create viral content without making the artist look corny, and why protecting mystique still matters in the social media era.He also breaks down direct-to-fan strategy, superfan communities, naming your fanbase, testing music with fans, singles versus albums, AI in music, street marketing, and the mindset it takes to build an artist from the ground up.If you’re an independent artist, artist manager, aspiring music executive, or anyone trying to understand how real fanbases are built, this one is a playbook.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeGet 20% of Magic Mind with code TMP20 ⁠https://magicmind.com/⁠If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: ⁠⁠https://form.typeform.com/to/JNELnGw9?utm_source=xxxxx&typeform-source=bit.ly#fbclid=xxxxx&gclid=xxxxx⁠⁠Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. ⁠⁠https://distrokid.com/⁠⁠Watch the full episode on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz and James Beshara reframe mental health as mental wealth.James shares the personal story that pushed him to take prevention seriously, then breaks down the five daily buckets he believes help build real resilience: sleep, diet, exercise, stress management, and exogenous compounds.They also get into consistent wake times, better sleep, alcohol, processed foods, walking, creativity, caffeine, nicotine, Adderall, and the ingredients behind Magic Mind.For artists, managers, founders, and creatives trying to perform at a high level without burning out, this is a reminder that the work starts before the work.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1:1 Strategy Session with Mauricio Ruiz, host of The Manager's Playbook, with over 16 years of experience for tailored advice for artists and managers. Consultation Fees Apply ⁠https://calendly.com/themanagersplaybook⁠Check out James Beshara's Essay on Mental Wealth: https://jjbeshara.com/2020/06/04/mental-wealth/Get 100% off APT with code TMP100 https://www.tryapt.ai/Get 20% of Magic Mind with code TMP20 https://magicmind.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/1XMFFyBvpSTfUzuRfCFkyu?si=sVEhF1A2StqEPEx7xFFCRA⁠⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz and James Beshara talk about focus, under-committing, and why artists need to stop trying to master everything at once.James breaks down the idea of doing very little and doing it big. For artists, managers, and music entrepreneurs, that means building skills gradually, releasing consistently, learning from feedback, and creating systems before adding more plates to spin.They also get into artist burnout, long-term mastery, ownership in 2026, and why the modern music business has more opportunity than ever if you can stay focused long enough to use it.For independent artists, artist managers, aspiring executives, and anyone building a real creative career, this is a reminder that the play is not doing more.It’s doing the right things better.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1:1 Strategy Session with Mauricio Ruiz, host of The Manager's Playbook, with over 16 years of experience for tailored advice for artists and managers. Consultation Fees Apply https://calendly.com/themanagersplaybookListen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/1XMFFyBvpSTfUzuRfCFkyu?si=sVEhF1A2StqEPEx7xFFCRA⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz and James Beshara talk about purpose, burnout, validation, and what it really means to build with intention.James breaks down the idea that “industry” means to persevere with purpose, and why talent alone does not mean much if you avoid the business side, the hard conversations, or the responsibility that comes with building something real.They also get into right action, finding the role that gives you energy, the pressure artists feel to keep touring, and why personal responsibility matters in music, startups, and creative careers.For independent artists, artist managers, aspiring executives, founders, and anyone trying to build something that lasts, this is a conversation about moving with purpose instead of chasing approval.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/1XMFFyBvpSTfUzuRfCFkyu?si=sVEhF1A2StqEPEx7xFFCRA⁠Watch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz and James Beshara break down why success in any creative career usually comes down to people, practices, and tools.James challenges the myth of the solo genius through Brian Eno’s idea of “scenius,” showing why artists, managers, founders, and creatives need the right scene, the right collaborators, and the right people around them.They also get into pitching, sales, asking better questions, finding your zone of genius, and building teams with people whose strengths complement your weaknesses.For independent artists, artist managers, aspiring music executives, and creative entrepreneurs, this is a reminder that talent matters, but the scene around you matters too.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Check out Influur Pulse and stop chasing the moment after it passes: https://www.influur.com/book-a-demoListen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1XMFFyBvpSTfUzuRfCFkyu?si=sVEhF1A2StqEPEx7xFFCRAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with angel investor, musician, founder, creator, and Magic Mind CEO James Beshara for a different kind of music business conversation.James brings a Silicon Valley lens to artist development, independent artists, artist management, and building a career that actually lasts. We get into why “trust and a network” are the foundation of anything meaningful, what the music industry can learn from startup culture, and why recording artists need more than talent to win.From building and selling Tilt to Airbnb, to creating Magic Mind after a major health wake-up call, James shares real lessons on purpose, reliability, productivity, fundraising, wellness, flow state, and finding your zone of genius.Whether you’re an artist, manager, aspiring music executive, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is a blueprint for building with more trust, more intention, and a lot less noise.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Check out James Beshara's Essay on Mental Wealth: https://jjbeshara.com/2020/06/04/mental-wealth/Get 100% off APT with code TMP100 https://www.tryapt.ai/Get 20% of Magic Mind with code TMP20 https://magicmind.com/If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: ⁠https://form.typeform.com/to/JNELnGw9?utm_source=xxxxx&typeform-source=bit.ly#fbclid=xxxxx&gclid=xxxxx⁠Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. ⁠https://distrokid.com/⁠Book a 1:1 Strategy Session with Mauricio Ruiz, host of The Manager's Playbook, with over 16 years of experience for tailored advice for artists and managers. Consultation Fees Apply ⁠https://calendly.com/themanagersplaybook⁠Watch the full episode on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Amber Grimes, EVP, GM, and partner at Love Renaissance (LVRN), to talk about self-advocacy, asking questions, and learning the business without pretending to know everything.Amber shares how asking for help changed the way she negotiated contracts, understood stock compensation, talked about pay, and recognized her own value in rooms where those lessons are not always taught.The conversation also gets into cultural confidence, executives of colour advocating for themselves, using every tool available, adapting to new platforms, and staying optimistic in a music business that keeps changing.A must-listen for aspiring music executives, artist managers, independent artists, and anyone building a career in the music business.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ZGoA4uIb95Ln5Og2lT6Ga?si=Jwmq9YR2QPuq1vZ7YO7HowWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Amber Grimes, EVP, GM, and partner at Love Renaissance (LVRN), to talk about what makes artists memorable in today’s music business.Amber breaks down the importance of visual identity, distinctive perspective, consistency, mystery, and competitiveness when building an artist brand that can actually last.She uses examples like Rihanna, Sabrina Carpenter, Zara Larsson, Ice Spice, Sexyy Red, Kanye West, Pink, Ne-Yo, Summer Walker, Beyoncé, Drake, and Taylor Swift to explain how artists build recognition, trust, fan engagement, and long-term connection.The conversation also gets into authentic world-building, Summer Walker’s rollout strategy, why marketing should solve fan frustration, how oversharing can hurt longevity, and why music is still a competitive sport.A must-listen for independent artists, artist managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone interested in artist branding, visual identity, music marketing, rollout strategy, and artist development.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ZGoA4uIb95Ln5Og2lT6Ga?si=Jwmq9YR2QPuq1vZ7YO7HowWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Amber Grimes, EVP, GM, and partner at Love Renaissance (LVRN), to talk about what artists need beyond the music.Amber breaks down the fundamentals of artist branding: authenticity, purpose, identity, community, fan access, and building something people actually believe in.She also explains how fan culture has evolved from fan clubs to stans to subscribers, why artists need direct ways to reach their audience, and how real fan communities can turn supporters into brand ambassadors.A must-listen for independent artists, artist managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone interested in artist development, music marketing, fanbase growth, direct-to-fan strategy, and building a lasting artist brand.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ZGoA4uIb95Ln5Og2lT6Ga?si=Jwmq9YR2QPuq1vZ7YO7HowWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Amber Grimes, EVP, GM, and partner at Love Renaissance (LVRN), to talk about what goes into building artist rollouts that actually connect.Amber shares the story behind 6LACK’s tour promo with a real bear, how LVRN develops creative ideas as a team, and why the best rollouts start with meaning before money.She also breaks down LVRN’s global vision, building in South Africa with trust and intention, the importance of artist authenticity, and why hard work still separates talent from greatness.A must-listen for independent artists, artist managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone interested in artist branding, music marketing, rollout strategy, and the real work behind building artist worlds.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ZGoA4uIb95Ln5Og2lT6Ga?si=Jwmq9YR2QPuq1vZ7YO7HowWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Amber Grimes, EVP, GM, and partner at Love Renaissance (LVRN), for a real conversation about artist branding, music rollouts, and what it takes to build artists people actually believe in.Amber breaks down the rules behind lasting artist brands: authenticity, purpose, community, visual identity, consistency, mystery, competitiveness, and knowing exactly why you exist. She also shares the story behind the real bear in 6LACK’s tour promo, how LVRN builds worlds around artists, and why Summer Walker’s authenticity is such a powerful example of long-term fan connection.We get into modern music marketing, artist development, fan communities, direct-to-fan strategy, manager value, self-advocacy in business, and how artists can adapt as the industry keeps changing.A must-listen for independent artists, artist managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone serious about building a career in today’s music business.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://form.typeform.com/to/JNELnGw9?utm_source=xxxxx&typeform-source=bit.ly#fbclid=xxxxx&gclid=xxxxxWant your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Book a 1:1 Strategy Session with Mauricio Ruiz, host of The Manager's Playbook, with over 16 years of experience for tailored advice for artists and managers. Consultation Fees Apply https://calendly.com/themanagersplaybookWatch the full episode on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET

Great music still wins.In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Nael Atweh and Alyce Hayek of Grass Fed Music talk about what it really takes to build a music career that lasts.They get into artist development, independent artists, major label partnerships, AI, superfans, touring, culture-building, and why exceptional ideas still matter more than tools, resources, or industry excuses.Nael and Alyce also break down why artists need to stop blaming playlists, focus on making better music, and build with the right people.This clip is for artists, managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone trying to understand how real careers are built in today’s music business.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4mqdVGC0ip18qh5ZlaOVKf?si=6sl7kZnsS3eQcnhNrIbiNAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

What does it really take to last in the music business?In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Nael Atweh and Alyce Hayek of Grass Fed Music talk about the mindset behind building a meaningful career in music.Nael shares lessons from his father’s optimism, his Palestinian roots, his brother Nasri’s resilience, and the belief it takes to keep going when the business tests you.They also get into no-agenda networking, serving others, managing with intention, why managers often work in the shadows, and how real impact matters more than just chasing money.This clip is for artists, managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone trying to build with purpose in the music business.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4mqdVGC0ip18qh5ZlaOVKf?si=6sl7kZnsS3eQcnhNrIbiNAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

What separates great artist managers from everyone else?In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Nael Atweh and Alyce Hayek of Grass Fed Music talk about managing artists with care, honesty, trust, and real business execution.Nael shares lessons from Sal & Co, Mike Caren, and Scooter Braun, why the song has to come first, and how Grass Fed helped build DJ Habibeats by bringing Middle Eastern music into club culture in a fresh way.They also get into working together as partners in life and business, balancing creative vision with operational structure, and what real management actually requires behind the scenes.This episode is for artists, managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone trying to understand the music business from the inside.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4mqdVGC0ip18qh5ZlaOVKf?si=6sl7kZnsS3eQcnhNrIbiNAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Nael Atweh and Alyce Hayek of Grass Fed Music join The Manager’s Playbook to talk about building a music management company together as husband and wife.They share how they met, how their relationship turned into a business partnership during COVID, and how Grass Fed developed its artist services model for independent artists.Nael and Alyce get into artist development, content strategy, rollout planning, business structure, team building, and why great management needs both creative instinct and operational discipline.This episode is for artists, artist managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone trying to understand what it really takes to build artists behind the scenes.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Check out Influur Pulse: https://www.influur.com/book-a-demoListen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4mqdVGC0ip18qh5ZlaOVKf?si=6sl7kZnsS3eQcnhNrIbiNAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Artist management is not just about deals, rollouts, and relationships.It’s service.In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Nael Atweh and Alyce Hayek of Grass Fed Music for a real conversation about what it takes to build artists behind the scenes.Nael and Alyce talk about running a music management company as a married couple, developing independent artists, building trust with clients, and balancing creative instinct with business structure. They also get into the story behind Grass Fed Music, working with DJ Habibeats, the rise of Middle Eastern club sounds, lessons from Nasri Atweh, MAGIC!’s “Rude,” Justin Bieber cuts, Myspace-era hustle, mentorship, and why the song still has to come first.This episode is for artists, managers, aspiring music executives, independent artists, and anyone trying to understand what real artist management actually looks like.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://form.typeform.com/to/JNELnGw9?utm_source=xxxxx&typeform-source=bit.ly#fbclid=xxxxx&gclid=xxxxxWant your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Book a 1:1 Strategy Session with Mauricio Ruiz, host of The Manager's Playbook, with over 16 years of experience for tailored advice for artists and managers. Consultation Fees Apply https://calendly.com/themanagersplaybookWatch the full episode on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Omar Grant breaks down the mistake too many artists make with their music: releasing without enough quality control, strategy, or honest feedback.Omar explains why great songs still need the right artist, the right plan, and the right timing. He also gets into the pressure independent artists feel to release constantly, why the market can be a useful teacher, and when blaming the marketing is really just avoiding the harder question: was the song strong enough?A sharp conversation for independent artists, managers, A&Rs, songwriters, producers, and aspiring music executives trying to build better records and smarter release strategies.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6V9sf8DiDrf8EmOspp48OH?si=7iM5Mi76QAKBwVyzQc8zeQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Omar Grant breaks down the strategy behind building a real career in the music business.Omar reflects on his rise from Bronx DJ and Columbia Records intern to Rihanna’s A&R and co-president of Roc Nation, sharing the lessons that shaped his path: patience, artist development, trust, relationships, and doing the work most people never see.He also explains what made Roc Nation different, why authentic marketing has to start with understanding the artist, and why copying another artist’s rollout is rarely a real strategy.A sharp conversation for aspiring music executives, artist managers, A&Rs, marketers, independent artists, and anyone trying to understand how long-term careers are actually built.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6V9sf8DiDrf8EmOspp48OH?si=7iM5Mi76QAKBwVyzQc8zeQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Omar Grant breaks down why artist development no longer lives only inside record labels.As Rihanna’s longtime A&R, former Roc Nation co-president, and founder of Chapter A.R.T. Music Publishing, Omar has seen how real development actually happens: through time, trust, taste, honest feedback, and the right people around the artist.Omar explains why producers, managers, and trusted creative partners now often play the role traditional A&Rs used to own. He also gets into building trust with artists like Rihanna, hearing great records in rough demos, why trend-chasing is not real A&R, and how songs go from good to great.A sharp conversation for artists, managers, producers, songwriters, aspiring A&Rs, and music executives trying to understand how long-term careers are really built.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6V9sf8DiDrf8EmOspp48OH?si=7iM5Mi76QAKBwVyzQc8zeQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

Rihanna’s next album isn’t just another release. It comes with the weight of everything she’s already done.In this episode, A&R executive Omar Grant breaks down the pressure behind new Rihanna music, why following records like “We Found Love,” “Diamonds,” “Work,” and Anti is so difficult, and what it takes to make songs that actually last.Omar talks about global writing camps, creative briefs, Rihanna’s own A&R instincts, the problem with mediocrity in today’s music, and why artists, writers, producers, and executives need to care more about quality, storytelling, melodies, choruses, and real development.A sharp look inside the music business, the A&R process, and the standard behind timeless records.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6V9sf8DiDrf8EmOspp48OH?si=7iM5Mi76QAKBwVyzQc8zeQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Omar Grant, Rihanna’s longtime A&R, former Roc Nation co-president, and founder of Chapter A.R.T. Music Publishing.Omar breaks down what real A&R looks like today, why great records feel harder to find, and how Rihanna’s creative instincts continue to raise the bar for the entire music industry. He shares how global writing camps, creative briefs, honest feedback, and deep artist trust all shape the records that actually last.This conversation goes beyond hit songs. Omar explains the difference between viral moments and timeless copyrights, why artist development still matters, and how aspiring A&Rs, managers, songwriters, producers, and music executives should think about taste, quality control, and creative leadership.We also get into modern music publishing, the future of A&R, and Omar’s new platform Who’s Your A&R, built to give artists and creatives the kind of feedback most people never get access to.A masterclass in A&R, artist development, songwriting, and building music that stands the test of time.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://form.typeform.com/to/JNELnGw9?utm_source=xxxxx&typeform-source=bit.ly#fbclid=xxxxx&gclid=xxxxxWant your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Book a 1:1 Strategy Session with Mauricio Ruiz, host of The Manager's Playbook, with over 16 years of experience for tailored advice for artists and managers. Consultation Fees Apply https://calendly.com/themanagersplaybookWatch the full episode on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Lecrae breaks down the business behind Reach Records and what it really takes to run an independent label.He explains how Reach operates with a 20-person staff, 11 artists, multiple departments, and four studios in Atlanta, while also sharing how he balances being both Artist Lecrae and CEO Lecrae.Lecrae also gets into marketing budgets, recoupment, expensive features, and why he believes in spending as momentum builds instead of betting big too early.A valuable listen for independent artists, artist managers, music executives, and anyone studying how to build a real music business.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5DBsFfmC1YCHzhwn1dlHlH?si=MO71e6ZmSzanB7atasJ3QQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Lecrae breaks down how Christian radio really works and why gospel, Christian music, and mainstream radio operate in very different ways.He explains the cultural divide between gospel and contemporary Christian music, how artists get boxed into categories, and how Christian radio can connect records to major touring opportunities like K-Love and Winter Jam.Lecrae also talks about crossover strategy, artist adaptability, radio economics, payola, and why independent labels need to become trusted curators for their audience.A valuable listen for independent artists, artist managers, music executives, Christian hip-hop fans, and anyone studying music business, radio strategy, and audience development.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5DBsFfmC1YCHzhwn1dlHlH?si=MO71e6ZmSzanB7atasJ3QQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Lecrae breaks down the hidden business behind Christian music and why the niche is much bigger than most people realize.He explains how independent Christian labels built real revenue before major-label partnerships, how church licensing through CCLI can become a major income stream, and why Christian hip-hop developed its own touring power through live shows, festivals, churches, and direct fan connection.Lecrae also shares what today’s independent artists need to understand about building an audience: stage presence, social media, music curation, fan connection, adaptability, and the work behind the highlight reel.A strong listen for independent artists, artist managers, music executives, Christian hip-hop fans, and anyone studying how niche music markets become real business.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5DBsFfmC1YCHzhwn1dlHlH?si=MO71e6ZmSzanB7atasJ3QQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Lecrae breaks down how he built independently after major hip-hop labels said his music was “too Christian” and gospel labels said it was “too hip-hop.”Lecrae talks about being both authentically hip-hop and authentically Christian, the business influence of Texas trunk-sale culture, and how Reach Records became a fully independent label without a major-label JV.He also shares how early community support, independent distribution, and projects like Anomaly helped prove there was a real audience long before the industry knew where to place him.A sharp lesson for independent artists, artist managers, music executives, and anyone building outside the traditional music business system.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5DBsFfmC1YCHzhwn1dlHlH?si=MO71e6ZmSzanB7atasJ3QQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Lecrae for a conversation about faith, hip-hop, independence, and what it really means to build when the industry doesn’t know where to put you.Lecrae breaks down how he navigated the divide between mainstream hip-hop and Christian music, why Reach Records had to become fully independent, and how community, touring, and direct fan support helped build one of the strongest independent businesses in music.We also get into Christian radio, the business of gospel and Christian music, artist development, building a healthy team, balancing CEO vs artist decisions, podcasting, media, ownership, and why independent artists need to understand their audience before chasing industry approval.A must-listen for artists, managers, music executives, Christian hip-hop fans, and anyone serious about building outside the traditional music business system.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://form.typeform.com/to/JNELnGw9?utm_source=xxxxx&typeform-source=bit.ly#fbclid=xxxxx&gclid=xxxxxWant your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Book a 1:1 Strategy Session with Mauricio Ruiz, host of The Manager's Playbook, with over 16 years of experience for tailored advice for artists and managers. Consultation Fees Apply https://calendly.com/themanagersplaybookWatch the full episode on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET

In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz talks with Peso Pluma’s Tour Director, Veikko Fuhrmann, about the business behind Latin touring across the U.S., Canada, and Latin America.Veikko breaks down how touring deals differ by market, from flat promoter packages in Latin America to U.S. and Canadian models built around splits, overages, settlements, taxes, union fees, and visas.They also get into building We Are Live, bringing Latin acts like Nicky Jam and Romeo Santos into major Canadian arenas, working with Ricky Martin, and what it takes to bridge cultures, crews, cities, and expectations on the road.For artists, managers, promoters, tour managers, and music executives, this is a real look at how the Latin live music business actually works.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4Z67uqWjrxIw2S3uK6HKDj?si=I5CLRNPTSP--acz7Btxo7gWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookTopics include:Latin touring, Peso Pluma, tour management, promoter deals, arena shows, Nicky Jam, Romeo Santos, Ricky Martin, U.S. touring, Canadian touring, visas, taxes, and artist management.

In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Peso Pluma’s Tour Director, Veikko Fuhrmann, to break down what a tour director actually does on a music tour.Veikko explains why the job is so much more than logistics. It’s cash flow, startup costs, payroll, vendor payments, credit card spend, delayed settlements, promoter advances, and making sure the tour can keep moving without the money falling apart.They also get into why great tour directors ask better questions, how artists get paid on tour, and why some promoter advances can feel less like free money and more like a loan.For artists, managers, tour managers, independent teams, and music executives, this is a practical look at the business behind the road.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4Z67uqWjrxIw2S3uK6HKDj?si=I5CLRNPTSP--acz7Btxo7gWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookTopics include:Tour directors, tour management, artist cash flow, touring startup costs, promoter advances, earn-out deals, business managers, artist payments, and live music business.

In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with live touring specialist and Peso Pluma Tour Director Veikko Fuhrmann to explain why a tour guarantee does not always mean an artist is making money.Veikko breaks down how tour offers are built, what guarantees and overages actually mean, how promoter splits work, and why every expense matters once a show moves past the guarantee.They also get into arena and stadium logistics, curfews, overtime, runners, carnets, day sheets, settlement sheets, and the real business behind protecting artist profit on the road.For artists, managers, tour managers, independent teams, and music executives, this is a clear look at how touring money really works.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4Z67uqWjrxIw2S3uK6HKDj?si=I5CLRNPTSP--acz7Btxo7gWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookTopics include:Tour guarantees, overages, artist expenses, promoter splits, tour management, arena logistics, settlement sheets, curfews, touring documents, and live music business.

In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with live touring specialist Veikko Fuhrmann of We Are Live to break down how artists lose money on tour and how the right team can fix it.Veikko explains why tour management is really about protecting the artist’s money, from club-level P&Ls and merch sales to promoter expenses, cash flow, insurance, touring LLCs, and upfront costs.This is a practical conversation for artists, artist managers, tour managers, independent teams, and music executives trying to understand the financial reality of touring before the road gets expensive.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4Z67uqWjrxIw2S3uK6HKDj?si=I5CLRNPTSP--acz7Btxo7gWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with live touring specialist Veikko Fuhrmann of We Are Live for a deep breakdown of how music touring actually works.Veikko shares his journey from working event security in Germany to joining Ricky Martin’s team and building a career across global tours, arenas, stadiums, and the live music business.This conversation covers the real financial and logistical side of touring: tour budgets, guarantees, overages, settlement sheets, cash flow, curfews, insurance, touring LLCs, tax withholding, carnets, crew culture, and what it really means to protect an artist’s money on the road.If you’re an artist, artist manager, tour manager, music executive, or independent team trying to understand the business of live shows, this episode is a masterclass in touring.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://form.typeform.com/to/JNELnGw9?utm_source=xxxxx&typeform-source=bit.ly#fbclid=xxxxx&gclid=xxxxxWant your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Watch the full episode on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ETTopics include:Tour management, live music business, artist touring, tour budgets, guarantees and overages, settlement sheets, cash flow, arena logistics, Latin artists touring, and manager wisdom.

Tems’ manager Muyiwa Awoniyi joins The Manager’s Playbook to break down how to build a real company around an artist.In this clip, Muyiwa explains why Tems’ long-term vision goes beyond music into business, philanthropy, investing, ownership, and company-building. He also shares how non-transactional relationships, delegation, team structure, artist development, admin deals, distribution, YouTube Foundry, and smart JV strategy helped Tems’ team build independence and long-term leverage.A must-listen for artists, managers, music executives, and anyone serious about building a sustainable music business.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1duk4mJxoVF7D9G5Whhjqk?si=mI5dFiQAT7uwrOUXtFLlHAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook⁠In this episode:00:00 Tems’ North Star and Long-Term Growth00:47 Real Relationships, Not Transactions01:15 Weaknesses, Patience, and Team Support02:28 Delegating Emails and Staying Focused04:17 Inbox Systems and Daily Syncs06:15 Vision Map and North Star Strategy07:27 Mentorship Over Generic Industry Talk10:21 Toronto Talent and Executive Leadership Gap14:12 Building Global Teams and The Weeknd Model15:50 Tems’ Admin Deal vs Publishing Deal16:51 Funding Independence With Distribution and YouTube Foundry18:38 Structuring JVs for Company Expansion19:34 Why Artists Become Executives

Tems’ manager Muyiwa Awoniyi joins The Manager’s Playbook to break down the truth about Afrobeats going global and what African artists need to understand before chasing the American music market.In this clip, Muyiwa explains why artists need to build real leverage at home first, how cultural ripple effects shape global crossover, and why labels must invest in African music infrastructure instead of only extracting from the culture.He also gets into why modern managers have to think like CEOs, how to create music moments with intention, and how Tems’ team built trust, equity, and long-term strategy around her career.A must-listen for artists, managers, music executives, and anyone serious about Afrobeats, African music, global crossover, and the business behind the music.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1duk4mJxoVF7D9G5Whhjqk?si=mI5dFiQAT7uwrOUXtFLlHAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookIn this episode:00:00 Visitor Mindset in America00:25 Does the West Water Down Afrobeats?01:34 Cultural Ripple Effects and Global Music02:18 Breaking Into the U.S. Music Market02:49 Why Labels Miss Cultural Nuance04:07 Investing in African Music Infrastructure05:03 Why Artist Managers Are CEOs Now05:53 Creating Music Moments and Planning Ahead07:00 Twitter Fans, Criticism, and Artist Strategy08:21 Artist-Centered Management vs Business08:52 Going All In for Artists09:36 Building Trust, Equity, and Long-Term Leverage

Tems’ manager Muyiwa Awoniyi joins The Manager’s Playbook to break down how Tems’ team built a business beyond the music.In this clip, Muyiwa explains why The Leading Vibe treats expenses as investments, how they built an ecosystem around Tems, and why ownership, valuation, team culture, fan engagement, and business literacy matter for long-term success.He also talks about Tems as both artist and executive, building a female-led team culture, why fans buy into movements, developing new artist Rue, and why discipline matters more than motivation.A must-listen for artists, managers, music executives, and independent artists serious about building something that lasts.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1duk4mJxoVF7D9G5Whhjqk?si=mI5dFiQAT7uwrOUXtFLlHAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookIn this episode:00:00 Investing in Tems00:34 Building the Artist Company01:43 Tems as Artist and Executive02:50 Team Operations and Business Structure04:06 Female-Led Team Culture04:57 Why Fans Buy Into Movements06:12 Fan Engagement in Today’s Music Industry07:44 What Makes New Talent Stand Out08:12 Introducing New Artist Rue09:10 Tems Origin Story10:52 Pressure, Responsibility, and Leadership15:32 Discipline Over Motivation16:17 Why Muyiwa Manages Artists

Tems’ manager Muyiwa Awoniyi joins The Manager’s Playbook to explain why real artist management starts with protecting the person before the music.In this clip, Muyiwa breaks down his people-first approach to managing Tems, why mental, spiritual, and physical well-being come before strategy, and how shared vision shapes the team’s decisions.He also gets into Tems’ RCA license deal, music ownership, master reversion, rollout strategy, Coachella with Justin Bieber and Wizkid, artist branding, authenticity, and building a sustainable company beyond the illusion of success.A must-listen for artists, managers, music executives, and anyone serious about artist development, ownership, and the business behind global music.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Listen to the full episode here -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1duk4mJxoVF7D9G5Whhjqk?si=mI5dFiQAT7uwrOUXtFLlHAWatch the Episodes On Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookIn this episode:00:00 Music as a Vehicle00:22 People-First Artist Management02:57 Team Alignment and Shared Vision04:39 Music Ownership and RCA License Deal05:33 Rollout Strategy and Surprise Drops07:09 Coachella With Justin Bieber and Wizkid11:10 Artist Narrative and Brand Building14:11 Authenticity, Fame, and Artist Development16:17 Saying No and Staying Aligned19:55 Real Success and Long-Term Business