What Are the Biggest Streaming Music Services? How to Become a Music Artist Manager?

The music industry has seen a seismic shift in recent years, with streaming services taking center stage as the primary medium for consuming music. Concurrently, the role of music artist managers has gained importance in navigating the complexities of the modern music landscape. In this article, we will explore the biggest streaming music services and provide a comprehensive guide on how to become a successful music artist manager.

Biggest Streaming Music Services

Streaming services have revolutionized how we access and enjoy music. Here are some of the biggest streaming music services dominating the industry:

Spotify

Launched in 2008, Spotify has become one of the leading streaming services globally, boasting over 350 million users with more than 150 million subscribers. It offers a vast library of over 70 million tracks, including podcasts and exclusive content. Spotify's algorithm-driven playlists, such as Discover Weekly and Release Radar, provide personalized listening experiences, making it a favorite among music lovers.

Apple Music

Apple Music, launched in 2015, quickly gained traction in the music streaming market. With an extensive library of over 75 million songs, curated playlists, and exclusive releases, Apple Music has garnered a substantial subscriber base. The service integrates seamlessly with Apple devices, offering a user-friendly experience across various platforms.

Amazon Music

Amazon Music offers two primary services: Amazon Music Unlimited and Amazon Prime Music. Amazon Music Unlimited provides access to over 75 million songs, while Prime Music, included with an Amazon Prime subscription, offers a more limited library of 2 million songs. With features like Alexa integration and high-quality audio streaming, Amazon Music has established itself as a significant player in the industry.

SoundCloud

SoundCloud is a unique streaming platform that allows independent artists to upload and share their music directly with fans. With over 200 million tracks, it is a hub for discovering emerging artists and new music trends. SoundCloud's community-driven approach and user-generated content differentiate it from other major streaming services.

How to Become a Music Artist Manager

Becoming a successful music artist manager requires a combination of industry knowledge, strong networks, and effective communication skills. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you embark on your journey:

1. Gain Industry Knowledge

Understanding the music industry is crucial for any aspiring artist manager. This includes learning about copyright laws, music licensing, distribution, and the various revenue streams available to artists. Attending music industry conferences, reading relevant books, and staying updated with industry news can help you build a solid foundation.

2. Build a Strong Network

Networking is key in the music industry. Connecting with other professionals, such as producers, promoters, and other artist managers, can open doors to new opportunities. Joining organizations like the Music Managers Forum (MMF) and attending industry events can help you expand your network.

3. Develop Management Skills

Effective management requires excellent organizational and communication skills. You need to be able to handle various aspects of an artist's career, including scheduling, marketing, and contract negotiations. Consider taking courses in business management, marketing, or music business to enhance your skills.

4. Find and Nurture Talent

Identifying and nurturing talent is a key responsibility of an artist manager. Look for artists with unique qualities and potential for growth. Building a good relationship with the artists you manage and helping them develop their careers can lead to long-term success.

5. Use Online Platforms

Leveraging online platforms like SoundOn can be a game-changer for artist managers. SoundOn offers comprehensive marketing and distribution services that can help you build an artist's career and reach a new audience. Utilizing these platforms can streamline the distribution process, allowing you to focus on other aspects of management.

6. Stay Adaptable

The music industry is constantly evolving, and as a manager, you need to stay adaptable. This means being open to new trends, technologies, and methods of promotion. Continuous learning and adapting to changes can help you stay ahead in the competitive landscape.

Conclusion

The rise of streaming music services has transformed the music industry, providing new opportunities for artists and managers alike. By understanding the biggest streaming platforms and following the steps outlined above, you can become a successful music artist manager and help your artists thrive in the modern music landscape.

For additional resources and support, consider registering as a SoundOn artist and take advantage of their marketing and distribution services.