MandiMartinMusic.com

This article was just published in Music Connection magazine!

By Bernard Baur

Artist management has evolved with the music business.

In today’s shrinking industry, management’s duties have expanded tremendously; and, in fact, several of the individuals profiled here are hyphenated — their expertise covers more than one area. You find producers (the power brokers in today’s music business) acting as managers, and management coming from the business sector.

Almost all of our sources are paid consultants as well because, after all, it is a business. The biggest change we’ve noticed is that artists are required to take on more responsibility. The days of a “free ride” are over.

Nonetheless, if you’re looking for someone to guide and direct your career, all seven of our sources are experienced and savvy enough to help you reach your goals.

MANDI MARTIN
MandiMartinMusic.com
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Mandi Martin is a star in her own right. A signed act in the 60’s (Columbia, RCA and Epic), she was mentored by Sam Cooke, and holds the Guinness World Record for playing pinball for 555 hours, 55 minutes and 55 seconds — on her 55th birthday. Martin also co-produced L.A.’s Songwriter’s Showcase for 23 years. Today she’s a record producer as well as a manager, and currently works with Amy Kuney (MC’s Top Demo Critique 2006), Nick Daugherty, Michael Doman, Voyce McGinley, III, and Jennifer Vazquez.

WHAT TYPE OF ARTISTS DO YOU LIKE

I like most genres including R&B, pop, country, rock, AAA and Top 40. I’ll even check out raw talent. Amy Kuney came out of the jungles of Honduras, and that’s as raw as you can get. But, to really get my interest, the music has to make every hair on my body stand at attention. I like informed artists. They can’t be dumb or unrealistic. They have to believe in themselves and know something about the business.

WHAT DO YOU OFFER ARTISTS

Since I was an artist myself, I can see things through their eyes. I know what they’re going through. As a songwriter and producer, I also know what makes a good song. I try to introduce my artists to people who can help them — like Steven Memel who I got as a vocal coach for Amy. Actually, I mentor many more artists than I manage, and consult on a freelance basis.

WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FROM ARTISTS

I expect total dedication and commitment. But, the talent has to be there. I also believe artists need to take responsibility for their own career. They shouldn’t expect a manager to do everything for them, and that includes paying for things. In the old days the trade-off was your publishing. And unless an artist is willing to give that up, they’re going to have to find a way to pay for some things. Of course, we can barter — I need a lot of things fixed around my house.

INDIE vs. MAJOR

A record deal today is not necessarily your best option. It’s not even safe if a label president signs you. The industry is too unstable. But, artists can do a lot on their own. You can get tremendous exposure with song placement in a television or film project. And, it’s not just about the money. It’s all about exposing your music to as many people as possible.

CONTACT

E-mail me and tell me about yourself. Let me know where I can hear some music. I want to hear something undeniable. If I do, we’ll talk.