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Manager Spotlight offers a small insight into the heads of incredible managers. This week in the spotlight is Yasmin Lajoie.

How long have you worked in Management?
I’ve worked in management nearly five years. Before that I worked in music publishing for 6 years, at EMI, Sony and Warner/Chappell.

Who do you manage now?
I manage God Colony and biLLLy and also work at Empire Artist Management, who represent James Newman and The Manor.

Where did you find your first client and what inspired you to take them on?
biLLLy was the first client I signed to my management company Slay Music. He’s such a talented producer and songwriter, but just as importantly he’s a lovely guy. We were friends for years before we started working together.

What’s a good/bad day at work look like for you?
A good day is when I’m feeling really productive: Zooms, meetings at labels, maybe lunch at Soho House, and a gig in the evening. I struggle with my mental health and bad days are common, when you feel a bit useless and nothing goes your way. I also hate chasing invoices – financial admin always makes a day worse!

What has been the highlight of your management career to date?
I’m not sure if there has been a singular highlight. Every time I hear a finished song on the radio or performed live… that’s amazing.

What do you think are the big challenges for a manager in 2021?
This year I’m trying to recover some of the income I lost during lockdown. It’s hard, especially for songwriters. I support the #BrokenRecord campaign which lobbies for more equitable remuneration for artists.

What music are you currently listening to?Griff, Rina Sawayama, Olivia Rodrigo, Arlo
Parks. I love Self Esteem’s single I Do This All The Time and I’m most excited about new Lorde album. It truly is a Hot Girl Summer!

ps I recently received an offer to study at Cambridge University and am raising money for tuition – if you would like to support please head here.