Manager Spotlight: Tania Lee
The manager spotlight offers a small insight into the heads of incredible managers. This week in the spotlight is Tania Lee!
How long have you worked in Management?
Since 1993 UMC has had the honour of representing some of the most prominent figures in the Jungle / D&B scene, including many of its original innovators. Our roster continues to celebrate these pioneers while also embracing and nurturing new talent across various music genres.
Who do you manage now?
We perform management duties for a large section of our current Agency roster, and fully manage 6 artists.
D&B MC’s
Illmatika – Ragga Twins – Killa Kela – Indigo Reign (Lady MC) – Moose – Y-Zer – MCMC – MC Iffy – MC Enamie – MC Det – Voice MC
D&B, Jungle, Breaks & House DJ’s
Ray Keith – Krome & Time – Mampi Swift – Standard Procedure – Danny Wheeler – Kenny Ken – DJ Ron – DJ Rap – Jumpin Jack Frost – V Dubz – Nicky Blackmarket – Marcus Visionary – DJ Millz – Ray Keith – Donovan Bad Boy – Juvie – Dope Ammo – DJ Archie – Krucial – RTC (Ragga Twins Crew) – K Coleman – Lara Fraser – GTA (V Dubz, Iffy & Enamie)
Live Artists
Jaki Graham – The British Collective – Shola Ama – Donovan Blackwood – Eban Brown – East17 – London Garage Orchestra – Robbie Craig – Gemma Fox – 2Badda – Don E – KingFlame Soundsystem
Where did you find your first client and what inspired you to take them on?
UMC’s first client was actually my partner at the time, so no real inspiration required. It was just a natural progression as I was managing his independent label at the time. I am always inspired by talented women. Many have a fire that is always inspiring.
What does a good/bad day at work look like for you?
A good day is getting to the bottom of a very long to do list! Securing something special for one of my artists, or seeing a project reach conclusion with the planned results or better. A bad day is usually having too many fires to fight.
What has been the highlight of your management career to date?
Successfully booking and managing a tour across the US and Canada featuring 8 artists, along with securing a performance slot at the prestigious Coachella festival for one amazing artist, undoubtedly rank as significant accomplishments. These milestones, among numerous others are significant highlights.
What do you think are the big challenges for a manager in 2024?
In the current landscape, managers face many formidable challenges. Adapting to evolving legislation and navigating the complexities of touring in a post-COVID world have emerged as particularly complex tasks for our team at UMC. Ensuring the well-being of our artists during these times has taken precedence, becoming our foremost concern amidst these challenges.
Furthermore, the continuous need to generate and maintain digital content for our artists, both for daily engagement and specific projects, poses a significant challenge. This encompasses not only the scarcity of time but also the necessity for innovative and compelling content that distinguishes our artists.
Why would you recommend the MMF?
The MMF has been an invaluable resource for UMC, providing up to date information, exceptional resources, and beneficial partnerships. Additionally, the training opportunities offered are immensely beneficial, catering to both seasoned and emerging managers, enhancing their capabilities and industry knowledge.
What music are you currently listening to?
Lots of Neo Soul and Afrobeat at the moment. There really are some incredible artists at the moment.