Manager Spotlight: Isus Calmellow

04 April 2024

The manager spotlight offers a small insight into the heads of incredible managers.⁠ This week in the spotlight is Isus Calmellow!

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

I was working with a PR company at the time and he was one of their clients. It seemed like a natural progression in my career to get into artist management based on the skillset and contacts I had. I saw it as a new challenge and something that I could add a lot of value to.

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

A good day is when everything is going to plan. A bad day is when you’re being let down and are having to get stuck in when you should be elsewhere.

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

In the past we’ve worked with clients who had chart success, multimillions of streams/views, toured over the world and played at some of the biggest festivals. At this stage in my career the biggest highlight for me would be taking our current acts we’ve developed to profitability and having their dreams become reality.

What did you gain from the Accelerator Programme?

In an industry where you’ll find yourself keeping your cards close to your chest the Accelerator Programme is something refreshing to be part of. I built a number of relationships that I otherwise wouldn’t have, as well as getting an insight into how over 20 managers at different points in their career manage their companies and clients.

What do you think are the big challenges for a manager in 2024?

The job of an artist manager is becoming a lot harder there’s a lot of things that we’re having to do that labels would have done not so long ago. I think marketing an artist is another challenge as the platforms and ways of doing things is ever changing.

Why would you recommend the MMF?

The MMF brings together a group of like minded individuals who are able to be OPENN about all aspects of their business in a safe and confidential space. You’ll meet and have access to people/resources that you may have not had in the past as well as getting an insight into areas of the industry that you may not be so clued up on.

What music are you currently listening to?

Potter Payper, Masego, Fredo Bang, Skrapz.

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