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Manager Spotlight offers a small insight into the heads of incredible managers. This week in the spotlight is Jazz Rocket!

How long have you worked in Management? 

I started within the management realm at ATC in 2013 and was there for a little over 3 years, before joining the team at Prolifica Management until 2018. I left to consult on a few bits in management & A&R, enabling space to focus on developing the 67 Artists roster.

Who do you manage now?

The 67 Artists roster currently has artists prstn. & Tinx, producer/writer/ mixer Tylr Rydr, songwriters Hákon & Xandr Fox as well as a few development projects. Find out what they’re all up to here.

Where did you find your first client and what inspired you to take them on?

I found my first client Tylr Rydr via the college he used to attend, ICMP London Music College. I’ve attended a few career days over the years at music colleges and really think they’re a great place to find new talent.

I heard a few of his early demos and was blown away with his musicality, versatility, vocal production, writing & mixing – for someone so young, I could tell he had been putting in the time to perfect his craft.  I was excited then to hear more and I still get excited when I get emails with new music. His potential is unreal.

What’s a good/bad day at work look like for you? 

There are always ups and downs but right now, a good day in general would be receiving confirmations on cuts from across my roster, as everyone writes there are some songs that may not be right for the artists projects & it’s always a pleasure when songs that would otherwise collect dust, are wanted by others.

A bad day right now is navigating the merky waters of how Covid-19 will affect each clients trajectory and at times, frustratingly the disbelief of others towards my clients. Though, that only gives me more fuel to be their torchbearer.

What has been the highlight of your management career to date?

There have been some great moments over the years from artists that I’ve worked on, from #1s and Christmas Top of the Pops appearances, to Grammy’s and headlining festivals but I never felt any of those successes were mine. As corny as it may sound, I’m currently in the happiest & most excited space as I get to wake up everyday and work with people I like & with talent that I truly believe in. Every piece of good news at the moment is a highlight.

What do you think are the big challenges for a manager in 2020?

I think the biggest challenge is the ensure you’re utilising your time wisely. The development of a project can take a good chunk of effort & resources and though I’m a firm believer in nurturing talent there has to be a balance to ensure you’re bringing in revenue for your clients.

Also, the mental well-being of my clients, those I work with and my own is imperative. I don’t shy away from any conversation about it, which I hope enables an open dialogued when needed.

What music are you currently listening to?

My taste is all over the place but I’m currently vibing to Arlo Parks, Teyana Taylor, Oliver Malcom & Loyle Carner.

I’m also listening to a lot of Tinx & prstn. material, as we’re gearing up for news releases so they’re on repeat at the moment.