Entertainment

The music industry has long been dominated by men, with a reputation for ruthless business practices and a culture that was often unwelcoming to women. However, the tide is turning, as a new generation of female music managers are making their mark and reshaping the industry.

Empowering Women to Lead the Way in Music Management

Shattering the Glass Ceiling in the Music Industry

The music industry has traditionally been a male-dominated field, with women often relegated to supporting roles or facing significant barriers to advancement. However, the tide is turning, as a growing number of women are taking on leadership positions as music managers. This shift is not only empowering these women, but it is also transforming the industry as a whole.One of the key factors driving this change is the evolving nature of the music manager's role. In the past, the job was often associated with a "late night, nightclub industry" that was not particularly appealing to young women. Today, however, the role has become more diverse and multifaceted, requiring a range of skills beyond just negotiating contracts and booking tours.Modern music managers must navigate a rapidly changing landscape, from the rise of streaming platforms to the challenges posed by Brexit and US visa costs. They need to be adept at social media, content creation, and storytelling, as well as having a deep understanding of the ever-evolving music business. This shift has opened the door for women to bring their unique perspectives and skill sets to the table, and they are seizing the opportunity.

Celebrating the Trailblazers: Angela Becker and Niamh Byrne

The growing presence of women in music management is being celebrated at the 2024 Artist & Manager Awards, where Angela Becker will be honored for her work as the manager of Pet Shop Boys. Becker's success is a testament to the impact that women can have in this industry, and her recognition is a significant milestone.Another trailblazer is Niamh Byrne, the new chair of the Music Managers' Forum (MMF). Byrne, who manages Blur and Gorillaz, is part of a growing contingent of women who are shaping the future of the industry. The MMF, which was founded in 1992 with just two women involved, now boasts a membership that is 38% female, including Annabella Coldrick, the organization's chief executive.

Overcoming Challenges and Asserting Influence

Despite the progress that has been made, women in music management still face significant challenges. Sophie Kennard, who manages drum'n'bass stars Chase & Status and co-founded Frame Artists with Becci Abbott Black, notes that the industry is still heavily male-dominated, particularly in the electronic music scene.Jade Busola, who manages Afrobeats star ThisizLondon, echoes this sentiment, sharing that she is often the only woman in the room. Busola has had to be assertive to ensure that her voice is heard and that no one takes advantage of her perceived vulnerability.Similarly, Louise Latimer, who was named Breakthrough Manager in 2023 for her work with Self Esteem and The Big Moon, has faced the persistent challenge of being mistaken for a groupie rather than the manager of the band. This type of dismissive treatment is a constant reminder of the uphill battle that women in the industry face.

Envisioning a More Equitable Future

Despite these challenges, the growing presence of women in music management is a positive sign for the industry. Latimer notes that the majority of the people she pitches her bands to are "white men between 25 and 60," which she finds "quite weird." She wonders what the musical landscape would look like if 50% of the decisions about investment for new music were made by women.This sentiment is echoed by Coldrick, who believes that women were managing before, but are now "much more visible" and getting the acknowledgment they deserve. The industry is becoming more diverse in many ways, and this shift is opening up new opportunities for women to shape the future of music.As the industry continues to evolve, the role of the music manager is becoming increasingly complex and multifaceted. The women who are stepping up to take on these challenges are not only proving their worth, but they are also redefining what it means to be a successful music manager. Their stories serve as an inspiration for the next generation of aspiring female leaders in the industry.