Manager Spotlight offers a small insight into the heads of incredible managers. This week in the spotlight is Lu Whiting, Wild Management.

How long have you worked in management?

I have worked in music management for over 20 years. I set my own music management company up ‘Wild Management’ 7 years ago.

Who do you manage now?

Himalayas 

I co-manage Himalayas with Terri Hall (Myself and Terri met whilst working together at 19 Management with Will Young, Spice Girls and Lisa Marie Presley)

Caroline Harrison // Lissy Taylor // Guest Singer // MACY

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

My first client approached me after working together. I was his Tour Manager and my role in his career organically grew into a management position. His music, talent and work ethos won my heart.

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

Every day is a good day. How can you ever have a bad day when you work in the music industry! So many people have career’s they hate or jobs they HAVE to do to earn money. I chose to be a manager and absolutely love what I do. Yes that are days you face challenges, but I always turn a negative into a positive.

A great day is receiving new music or going to watch a show. The feeling you get as manager when you see your artist happy on the stage performing to their fans is the best.

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

My greatest highlight and achievement is setting up a music management company with a strong talent roster, whilst juggling home life and being a busy mum. I’ve realised it’s not a crime to be a working mum! It’s something I’m so proud of and after taking a short break and returning to the industry with my own management company, it was the right thing to do. I have shown my children it’s important to chase your dreams, work hard and turn them into reality. Women have an equal place in the workplace and can be successful business entrepreneurs and leaders.

What do you think are the big challenges for a manager in 2022?

There are many challenges a manager faces in the current climate and these change so quickly, especially after the devastation the Covid pandemic has had on the live industry. You need to be able to make the right decisions at the right time. With limited potential artist revenue streams, it is important to choose and plan the right options that will enable your artist to develop and grow, both creatively and financially. Finding ways to build campaigns and adapt to the constant rescheduling, whilst still engaging and reaching the artists fan base.

What music are you currently listening to?

I listen to music all day, all types of genres, the radio is always on. New music I’m listening to….

Himalayas, Caroline Harrison, Lissy Taylor, Guest Singer, MACY, The White Lakes, Neelix, Kid Kapichi, Lorde, Joy Crooks & Baby Queen.

Fleetwood Mac, Daft Punk, Massive Attack & Beastie Boys will never stop being on my playlist!