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395 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
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Inside the Playbook: Matt Hansen on What Happens After Going Viral
27 mei 2026 · 20 min
Matt Hansen went viral overnight after posting a one-take Frank Ocean “Godspeed” cover in a parking garage. Lees meer
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Matt joins Mauricio Ruiz to talk about what happened after the viral moment: going from 500 TikTok followers to 500,000 overnight, getting immediate major label interest, taking meetings alone while still at UCLA, and learning how to protect his leverage as an independent artist.
Matt also breaks down finding the right managers, using data to guide his cover strategy and branding, building a “mini label” around himself, staying independent through distribution, and investing in touring even when the early numbers did not make sense on paper.
This conversation is for independent artists, managers, music marketers, and anyone trying to understand how a viral moment can turn into a real music career.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/54E4CbJCx5Mc7tKAlwIySp?si=Vg5LiESwTBWKYKRsO6usiA
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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The Manager’s Playbook 068: Matt Hansen - 1 Billion Streams, TikTok Covers, Independent Artist Strategy, Touring ROI & Orchid
24 mei 2026 · 1 uur 43 min
Matt Hansen went from posting TikTok covers to building a billion-stream independent music career. Lees meer
In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Matt joins Mauricio Ruiz to break down how a one-take Frank Ocean “Godspeed” cover in a parking garage took him from 500 followers to 500,000 overnight, sparked major label interest, and forced him to learn the music business fast.
Matt opens up about staying independent, finding the right managers, building a mini-label team, using distributor deals to fund growth, losing money on tour, turning opening slots into content ROI, collecting fan data, and separating CEO mode from artist mode.
This conversation is for independent artists, artist managers, music marketers, aspiring music executives, and anyone trying to understand how a viral moment can become a real career.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
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Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET
Topics include: TikTok music strategy, artist development, touring, opening slots, distributor deals, catalog ownership, fan data, songwriting, content strategy, and Matt’s debut album Orchid.
Listen to more episodes of The Manager’s Playbook wherever you get your podcasts.
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Inside the Playbook: Mauricio Ruiz on Why He Started The Manager’s Playbook
23 mei 2026 · 14 min
How The Manager’s Playbook Became Music’s Insider Podcast Lees meer
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz shares why he created the podcast and how it became a way to give music industry knowledge back to the community.
Mauricio talks about stepping away from artist management, wanting to build his own IP, and turning private “inside baseball” conversations into a public platform for artists, managers, executives, and creatives.
He also shares how the podcast started with Troy Carter as the first guest, why Toronto is at the heart of the mission, and how Erica and Mel helped build the show through trial and error.
This one is for artists, managers, aspiring music executives, and anyone trying to understand how the music business really works.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0EpX71F9JklAmZAEdXsRKA?si=877g60VXRImVmjV0j-ud6A
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Topics include:
The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz, Troy Carter, artist management, music business, Toronto music scene, building IP, podcasting, music executives, independent artists, publishing, content strategy, and giving back to the community. -
Inside the Playbook: Mauricio Ruiz on The Artist Manager Skills Nobody Talks About
22 mei 2026 · 8 min
When Is an Artist Ready for a Manager? Lees meer
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz breaks down what artists and managers should understand before working together.
Mauricio talks about why management is rooted in value, trust, communication, and the ability to sell a vision. He explains how a sales background can help managers build thick skin, ask better questions, read the room, build rapport, and turn conversations into real next steps.
The conversation also covers creative ways artists can build teams when cash is limited, including offering points on masters, as well as basic music publishing concepts like songwriter share, publisher share, mechanicals, performance rights, and sync.
This one is for artists, managers, and aspiring music executives trying to understand how to build real relationships in the music business.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0EpX71F9JklAmZAEdXsRKA?si=877g60VXRImVmjV0j-ud6A
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Topics include:
Artist management, music business, sales skills, networking, building relationships, master points, independent artists, music publishing, songwriter share, publisher share, sync, performance royalties, and The Manager’s Playbook. -
Inside the Playbook: Mauricio Ruiz on How Jessie Reyez’s First Song Sparked a Label Bidding War
21 mei 2026 · 28 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz breaks down the early days of managing Jessie Reyez and the strategy behind her breakout single, “Figures.” Lees meer
Mauricio shares what made Jessie undeniable from the beginning: her work ethic, voice, authenticity, and the team that helped build the foundation around her. He talks about the role of The Remix Project, Junia-T, Byron Wilson, Dana Meyerson, Spotify relationships, and how “Figures” gained momentum through FADER, Zane Lowe, and New Music Friday.
The conversation also gets into the major label bidding war that followed, why the team chose Island Records, and how doing a publishing deal before the label deal helped create leverage.
This one is for artists, managers, and young music executives trying to understand artist development, rollout strategy, publishing, record deals, and how to build momentum before signing.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0EpX71F9JklAmZAEdXsRKA?si=877g60VXRImVmjV0j-ud6A
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Topics include:
Jessie Reyez, Mauricio Ruiz, artist management, “Figures,” Spotify New Music Friday, FADER, Zane Lowe, Island Records, publishing deals, major labels, artist development, Toronto music culture, and The Manager’s Playbook. -
Inside the Playbook: Mauricio Ruiz on How He Built Canada’s Biggest Music Video Company
20 mei 2026 · 18 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz breaks down how he helped build Mad Ruk Entertainment into one of Canada’s biggest music video production companies. Lees meer
Mauricio reflects on the shift from million-dollar music video budgets to the digital era, where taste, storytelling, and execution started mattering more than access to massive budgets. He shares how YouTube, behind-the-scenes content, and online platforms changed the way artists could market themselves visually.
He also talks about producing videos for artists like Avicii, Nicky Romero, SonReal, Future, and The Weeknd, including the viral Reddit moment behind SonReal’s “Everywhere We Go” and his experience executive producing Future’s “Low Life” featuring The Weeknd.
This conversation is for artists, managers, directors, producers, and creatives trying to understand music videos, content strategy, artist marketing, budgeting, and the people side of production.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0EpX71F9JklAmZAEdXsRKA?si=877g60VXRImVmjV0j-ud6A
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Topics include:
Mad Ruk Entertainment, music videos, artist marketing, content strategy, YouTube, Reddit virality, The Weeknd, Future, Avicii, Nicky Romero, independent artists, music video budgets, and building creative teams. -
The Manager’s Playbook 067: Mauricio Ruiz - Jessie Reyez, Mad Ruk, Artist Management, Music Business & Building The Playbook
17 mei 2026 · 1 uur 31 min
How did Mauricio Ruiz go from managing artists to building one of the music industry’s most trusted insider podcasts? Lees meer
In this live, in-person episode of The Manager’s Playbook, the script gets flipped. Mauricio Ruiz sits on the other side of the interview to talk through his journey from film, door-to-door sales, and co-founding Mad Ruk Entertainment to managing Jessie Reyez and eventually building The Manager’s Playbook, moderated by Donavan Brown.
Mauricio breaks down the early lessons that shaped him: how music videos became artist marketing, why relationships matter more than people think, what it took to help build Jessie Reyez’s early momentum, and how “Figures” led to major label attention before the team chose Island Records.
He also gets into publishing, ownership, sales skills, team building, independent artist strategy, and why stepping away from management allowed him to build his own IP.
This episode is for artists, artist managers, aspiring music executives, creatives, and anyone trying to understand how the music business really works.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET
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Inside the Playbook: Bryan Johnson on How Spotify Editors Find Music
16 mei 2026 · 9 min
How do artists get discovered on Spotify today? Lees meer
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz and Bryan Johnson from Spotify talk about the future of music discovery, editorial playlists, algorithmic recommendations, and what artists should understand about Spotify for Artists.
Bryan explains why both editorial and algorithmic playlists still matter, how active listening signals like searches, saves, and direct adds influence discovery, and what actually happens when artists submit music through Spotify’s playlist pitch tool.
They also discuss sustainable artist careers, the role of human editors, and why real fan behavior still matters in an increasingly algorithmic music economy.
For artists, managers, and music executives, this is a clear look at how discovery works now and how artists can better position their music to be heard.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0EpX71F9JklAmZAEdXsRKA?si=877g60VXRImVmjV0j-ud6A
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Topics Covered:
00:00 Humans Behind Music Tech
00:07 Future of the Music Economy
00:47 Sustainable Artist Careers
01:07 Editorial vs Algorithmic Playlists
03:14 Active Listening Explained
04:57 Why Editorial Still Matters
05:17 Inside Spotify’s Pitch Tool
06:58 How Spotify Editors Listen
07:58 The 100,000 Tracks a Day Problem -
Inside the Playbook: Bryan Johnson on How Streaming Changed Artist Power
15 mei 2026 · 18 min
Getting dropped by a record label used to feel like the end. Lees meer
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz and Bryan Johnson from Spotify talk about how streaming changed the path for artists after a label deal ends.
Bryan shares his own experience as a musician, from self-releasing music and touring in bands to getting dropped by a label and later moving into the industry through PRS and Spotify.
They also discuss Spotify’s responsibility to artists, the shift from ownership to access, the old stigma of being “damaged goods,” and how tools like Spotify for Artists, playlist pitching, audience data, and distribution have given artists more ways to keep building.
For artists, managers, and music executives, this is a conversation about artist leverage, modern record deals, and why having a real audience can matter more than having a label.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0EpX71F9JklAmZAEdXsRKA?si=877g60VXRImVmjV0j-ud6A
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Topics Covered:
00:00 Spotify’s Responsibility to Artists
01:44 Misconceptions About Spotify Success
02:26 From Shelf Space to Streaming
04:28 Bryan Johnson’s Early DIY Music Hustle
06:26 Bands, Deals, and Breakthroughs
08:47 From Drummer to Industry Advocate
11:02 Getting Dropped and DIY Then
13:54 Streaming After Labels
16:16 Modern Record Deals and Artist Power
18:04 Spotify as an Artist Voice Platform -
Inside the Playbook: Bryan Johnson on AI Music, Fraud & Royalties
14 mei 2026 · 12 min
How is Spotify handling AI music, fake streams, and artist impersonation? Lees meer
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz and Bryan Johnson from Spotify discuss how AI is changing the music business and what it means for artists, songwriters, rights holders, and listeners.
Bryan breaks down Spotify’s approach to AI music, including spam filters, impersonation policies, AI credits, artificial streaming, and the removal of around 75 million spammy tracks over the past year.
They also discuss prompt-generated AI songs, low listener engagement, artist opt-in, AI derivatives, UGC remixes, copyright protection, and why fair compensation for songwriters and publishers will be a major part of the conversation going forward.
For artists, managers, songwriters, producers, and music executives, this is a clear look at where AI music is headed and why artist protection still has to come first.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0EpX71F9JklAmZAEdXsRKA?si=877g60VXRImVmjV0j-ud6A
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Topics Covered:
00:00 AI Music and Royalty Dilution
00:59 Spotify’s AI Music Policies
01:29 Spam Tracks and Fake Streams
02:35 AI Artists vs Music Fraud
04:48 Low Engagement on AI Songs
05:46 Music Technology and Fear
07:36 AI Derivatives and Artist Opt-In
09:42 Artist Rights and Compensation
10:18 Publishers, Songwriters, and UGC -
Inside the Playbook: Bryan Johnson on Spotify's $11B Artist Payout
13 mei 2026 · 23 min
Spotify paid $11B to music rights holders in 2025 but who actually gets the money? Lees meer
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz and Bryan Johnson from Spotify break down what the Loud & Clear report really means for artists, managers, songwriters, and the wider music business.
They get into how Spotify royalties work, why payments go to rights holders first, what stream-share means, why “per-stream rates” are misleading, and how independent artists are participating in the growth of streaming.
They also discuss how streaming helped lower the barriers for DIY artists, why Spotify was built as a response to piracy, how global music is cutting through, and why catalog value has changed in the streaming era.
For artists, managers, and aspiring music executives, this is a clear look at how money moves through Spotify and why the headline number is only part of the story.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0EpX71F9JklAmZAEdXsRKA?si=877g60VXRImVmjV0j-ud6A
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Topics Covered:
00:00 Streaming Boom Stats
00:31 DIY Artist Breakthroughs
02:13 Mobile Streaming and Discovery
04:21 From Piracy to Streaming
05:41 Global Languages Breaking Through
09:19 Loud & Clear Payouts
12:10 Rights Holders Explained
15:58 Stream Share vs Per-Stream Rates
18:37 Artist Dilution Myth
20:43 Catalog Sales in the Streaming Era -
The Manager’s Playbook 066: Bryan Johnson - Spotify Royalties, Independent Artists, AI Music & The Future of Streaming
10 mei 2026 · 1 uur 45 min
In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Bryan Johnson, Spotify’s Head of Artist and Industry Partnerships, International, for a rare inside look at how Spotify is shaping the modern music business. Lees meer
Bryan breaks down Spotify’s 2025 Loud & Clear report, including the $11B paid to rights holders, the growth of independent artists, the rise of the artist middle class, and why more artists are building real careers through streaming than ever before.
They also get into the questions artists and managers actually care about:
Who really gets paid?
How do Spotify royalties work?
Do playlists still matter?
Is algorithmic discovery more important than editorial?
What does AI mean for artists, songwriters, and rights holders?This conversation covers streaming royalties, Spotify for Artists, Fresh Finds, global music discovery, AI music, artificial streaming, ticketing, merch, catalog value, and why artist control matters more than ever.
For artists, managers, songwriters, and aspiring music executives, this episode is a clear look at where the music economy is headed and what it takes to actually benefit from it.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET
Topics Covered
00:00 Streaming Opens Doors
02:04 Spotify Then vs Now
06:45 Piracy to Streaming
08:06 Global Languages Breaking Through
11:43 Loud & Clear Report
14:34 Who Actually Gets Paid
18:22 Stream Share vs Per-Stream Rate
23:08 Catalog Sales and Valuation
33:44 Fresh Finds Breakouts
43:32 The Artist Middle Class
49:13 AI Music, Spam, and Spotify Policies
55:48 Derivatives and Artist Opt-In
01:09:11 Spotify’s Respons… -
Inside the Playbook: Chris Anokute on How the Next Superstars Will Be Built
9 mei 2026 · 12 min
What does the future of artist development actually look like in a democratized music business? Lees meer
In this clip, Chris Anokute breaks down why younger artists, managers, and executives are building their own systems, skipping old gatekeepers, and using new tools to break artists faster than previous generations.
He also explains why superstar careers are still possible, why artist development now requires more patience and a longer view, and how the next wave will come from blending old-school taste and development with modern marketing, audience acquisition, and AI-assisted strategy.
This clip is for artists, managers, A&Rs, and music executives thinking about artist development, independent music strategy, AI in music, fan growth, audience building, and the future of the music business.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1V06xjz5nGBJO77fYwdH14?si=K1M5F0F9QwK4xxbD-1K-6Q
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Chris Anokute on How Disrespect Costs Record Labels Great Artists
8 mei 2026 · 24 min
What makes an artist worth backing before the data shows up? Lees meer
In this clip, Chris Anokute breaks down why real artist development starts with belief, desire, point of view, and trust; not just streams, looks, or momentum.
He also reflects on the Jessie Reyez story, what major labels often miss because of red tape, why disrespect can cost companies great artists, and how timing, leverage, and real relationships shape careers in the music business.
This clip is for artists, managers, A&Rs, and music executives thinking about artist development, record labels, management, leverage, mentorship, and how great talent gets recognized before the rest of the industry catches up.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1V06xjz5nGBJO77fYwdH14?si=K1M5F0F9QwK4xxbD-1K-6Q
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Chris Anokute on Why Artists Can’t Ignore AI Music Anymore
7 mei 2026 · 13 min
AI is already changing the music business, and artists can’t afford to ignore it. Lees meer
In this clip, Chris Anokute breaks down why AI is not a passing trend, how the industry may respond the same way it did with streaming, and why artists need to start paying closer attention to rights, royalties, and how their work could be used in the future.
He also gets into why producers are quietly using tools like Suno, how artists can think about AI as a tool instead of a replacement, and why today’s real battle is not just music creation, it’s attention.
This clip is for artists, managers, producers, and music executives trying to understand AI music, artist rights, royalties, record labels, IP, audience behavior, and the future of the music business.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1V06xjz5nGBJO77fYwdH14?si=K1M5F0F9QwK4xxbD-1K-6Q
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Chris Anokute on Why Artists Don’t Need Record Labels But Still Want Them
6 mei 2026 · 13 min
Why do artists still sign record deals if they don’t actually need them? Lees meer
In this clip, Chris Anokute breaks down the real value of record labels, why there’s no such thing as a universally “good” or “bad” deal, and what artists need to understand about rights, leverage, and ownership in today’s music business.
He also explains why recouping even a small investment is harder than most people think, what it really costs to build momentum from zero, and how artists can start creating leverage through repertoire, content, strategy, and consistency.
This clip is for independent artists, managers, music executives, and anyone trying to understand record deals, artist development, A&R, leverage, and the real economics of building in music today.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1V06xjz5nGBJO77fYwdH14?si=K1M5F0F9QwK4xxbD-1K-6Q
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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The Manager’s Playbook 065: Chris Anokute - AI Music, Artist Development, Record Deals, A&R & The Future of the Music Business
3 mei 2026 · 1 uur 52 min
In the part II of this Manager’s Playbook convo, Mauricio Ruiz sits back down with former EPIC Records executive Chris Anokute to talk about what AI means for artists, how Suno is already being used in music, and why the future of the music business will belong to people who know how to adapt. Lees meer
Chris breaks down the truth about record deals, why no deal is simply “good” or “bad,” and how artists can build leverage from zero through repertoire, content, strategy, and consistency. He also shares his thoughts on AI ethics, intellectual property, artist development, independent label operations, and what it takes to build the next superstar in a democratized music industry.
This episode covers AI music, artist development, music business strategy, record deals, independent artists, A&R, audience growth, music marketing, and the future of the music industry.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET
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Inside the Playbook: Khris Riddick-Tynes on What Every Producer Must Know About the Music Business
2 mei 2026 · 14 min
What does every producer need to know about the music business beyond making great records? Lees meer
In this clip, Khris Riddick-Tynes gets into the side of the game a lot of creatives learn too late, publishing structures, deal terms, mentorship, discipline, and why studying the greats still matters.
He also breaks down how an old MDRC publishing deal became difficult once the business shifted to streaming, how supportive mentors helped him navigate it, and why producers need to understand more than just the studio if they want real longevity.
If you care about music publishing, producer development, mentorship, songwriting, and learning how the music business actually works, this one’s for you.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5wOQH0FOauCNaI3L8RANXx?si=TBK2clMnRkOmvZt0tvrCPg
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Khris Riddick-Tynes on Why “Folded” Worked
1 mei 2026 · 19 min
Why did Kehlani’s “Folded” work the way it did? I Lees meer
n this clip, Khris Riddick-Tynes breaks down how the record came together, why it needed more emotional nuance than a standard breakup song, and how trusting the feeling of a record can lead to something bigger.
He also gets into how to motivate artists without forcing them, why substance matters more than technique, how he knew “Folded” was special, and what it takes to keep a slow-burn record moving through smart rollout, remixes, challenges, and staying close to what the audience is responding to.
If you care about Kehlani, songwriting, artist development, hit records, music production, and the long game behind songs that last, this one’s for you.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5wOQH0FOauCNaI3L8RANXx?si=TBK2clMnRkOmvZt0tvrCPg
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Khris Riddick-Tynes on The Long Game Behind Music Success
30 april 2026 · 12 min
Why do some artists last while others fade after one breakout moment? Lees meer
In this clip, Khris Riddick-Tynes breaks down the mindset behind real music career longevity, from resilience and studying your wins to avoiding short-term money traps and building demand the right way.
He gets into why you have to watch the tape after a hit, why touring still matters, and how artists, managers, and producers can think beyond quick money and start building something that actually lasts.
If you care about artist development, breakout songs, music business strategy, touring, and long-term success in music, this one’s for you.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5wOQH0FOauCNaI3L8RANXx?si=TBK2clMnRkOmvZt0tvrCPg
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Khris Riddick-Tynes on Why the Song Still Comes First
29 april 2026 · 16 min
Why do some songs fade fast while others last for years? Lees meer
In this clip, Khris Riddick-Tynes breaks down why the song still comes first; not the trend, not the moment, not the hype. He gets into why lyrics, melody, and emotional truth are what give records real staying power, and why track-first songs often burn out fast.
The conversation also covers how SZA’s “Snooze” came together, why mentorship matters, what discernment looks like in A&R and executive production, and how great songs often start with honest conversations and difficult emotions.
If you care about songwriting, artist development, music business, A&R, producer mindset, and building records that last, this one’s for you.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5wOQH0FOauCNaI3L8RANXx?si=TBK2clMnRkOmvZt0tvrCPg
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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The Manager’s Playbook 064: Khris Riddick-Tynes - Songwriting, Hit Songs, Artist Development, A&R & Music Business
26 april 2026 · 1 uur 34 min
Khris Riddick-Tynes, three-time Grammy-winning producer, songwriter, and Kehlani’s executive producer, joins The Manager’s Playbook to break down what really makes hit songs last. Lees meer
This conversation gets into songwriting, artist development, A&R, executive production, mentorship, and music business strategy, with stories behind SZA’s “Snooze”, Kehlani’s “Folded”, and the long game behind building records that connect. Khris also shares lessons on producer ego, trusting your instincts, navigating deals, studying the greats, and why the song still comes first.
If you care about hit songs, music business, artist development, songwriting, and career longevity, this episode is for you.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET
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Inside the Playbook: Hitmaka on What’s Wrong With the Music Industry
25 april 2026 · 18 min
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Hitmaka and Mauricio Ruiz unpack why the music industry does not create stars the way it once did. Lees meer
They get into what separated artists like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole from the pack, how algorithms and personalized discovery have changed the way audiences connect with music, and why the business needs more fearless creatives in positions of leadership.
The conversation also explores artist development, label politics, NBA YoungBoy’s unique rise, the tension between taste and data, and what it really takes to build lasting success in today’s music business.
A valuable listen for artists, producers, songwriters, managers, A&Rs, and music executives trying to understand the future of stardom, leadership, and culture in the music industry.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7tjdQ69aragoLlzVBOxsFT?si=0hO2glznQ2GUHa1IU6j0Og
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Hitmaka on Why the Music Industry Is Really a People Business
24 april 2026 · 10 min
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Hitmaka breaks down why the music industry is really a people business. Lees meer
From working with labels and independent artists to building trust, collaboration, and long-term leverage, Hitmaka shares how real relationships create opportunities in music. He also reflects on developing an artist connected to Gillie, how that led to an Epic deal, why getting invited back into the room matters, and the role humility plays in building a sustainable career.
A valuable listen for artists, producers, songwriters, managers, and music executives looking to better understand how relationships, collaboration, and reputation shape success in the music industry.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7tjdQ69aragoLlzVBOxsFT?si=0hO2glznQ2GUHa1IU6j0Og
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Hitmaka on The Truth About Songwriters vs Producers
23 april 2026 · 19 min
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Hitmaka breaks down how producers really get paid in the music business. Lees meer
He reflects on his time during Atlantic’s high-powered A&R era, how he helped shape the sound of modern R&B and hip-hop, and why songwriters have historically been undervalued. From the making of A Boogie’s “Look Back At It” to the strategy behind producer credits, advances, and building leverage, Hitmaka gives a real look at the business behind hit records.
A must-listen for producers, songwriters, artists, managers, and music executives trying to better understand how the music business really works.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7tjdQ69aragoLlzVBOxsFT?si=0hO2glznQ2GUHa1IU6j0Og
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Hitmaka on How Producers Really Get Paid
22 april 2026 · 13 min
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Hitmaka breaks down how producers really get paid in the music business. Lees meer
From song deals and publishing to fair splits, leverage, and non-exclusive relationships across labels, Hitmaka shares real insight into the business mechanics behind a successful producer career. He also talks about why he stays rooted in hip hop and R&B, the gatekeeping that exists in pop, why the industry is in a “refresh” era, and why building new talent matters now more than ever.
A must-listen for producers, songwriters, artists, managers, and music executives trying to better understand how money, leverage, and opportunity really work in today’s music industry.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7tjdQ69aragoLlzVBOxsFT?si=0hO2glznQ2GUHa1IU6j0Og
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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The Manager’s Playbook 063: Hitmaka - Hit Songs, Songwriting, A&R, Artist Development & Music Business
19 april 2026 · 1 uur 33 min
In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Hitmaka, formerly Yung Berg, for a deep conversation on the real business behind hit songs. Lees meer
Hitmaka breaks down how hit records actually get made, from demo-first songwriting and producer collaboration to song deals, publishing, label politics, and artist development. He reflects on nearly three decades in music, the mindset that kept him going through every era of his career, and the lessons he learned building records like “Sexy Can I,” Big Sean’s “Bounce Back,” and A Boogie Wit da Hoodie’s “Look Back At It.”
They also get into why writers often do not get paid properly, how producers create leverage, the importance of relationships in the music business, and why the industry needs more creative leadership.
A must-listen for artists, producers, songwriters, managers, and anyone serious about understanding how the music industry really works.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Want your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET
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Inside the Playbook: Mike Caren on What Makes a Song Feel Like a Hit
18 april 2026 · 13 min
Mike Caren breaks down what actually makes a song feel like a hit. Lees meer
This clip explores the role of A&R, taste, replay value, emotional connection, melody, lyrics, and creative judgment in today’s music business.
Mike also talks about trusting your opinion, learning from missed calls, redefining what a hit means in the streaming era, and why great executives grow by focusing on their strengths instead of rushing titles.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2UnV1d2ltTCO1rfjqhTKc4?si=seltDGQ-RvWE9fwshY-f3w
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Timestamps:
00:00 Have an Opinion
00:58 What Makes a Hit
03:18 Replay Test for Songs
05:37 Gut Instinct Explained
07:08 Defining Hits Today
08:04 Culture vs Chart Peaks
09:42 Career Moves for Execs
10:58 Turning Down Promotions
11:36 Choosing Your Strengths
13:00 Closing Thoughts on Growth
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Inside the Playbook: Mike Caren on The Reason Artist-Manager Relationships Fall Apart
17 april 2026 · 12 min
Mike Caren breaks down why artists and managers need to have hard conversations early if they want to avoid bigger problems later. Lees meer
This clip is about artist-manager communication, label frustrations, project readiness, honest feedback, over-communication, and building stronger working relationships in the music business.
It’s a sharp reminder that many issues are not solved by blame. They’re solved by clarity, direct conversations, and the willingness to address problems before they get expensive.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2UnV1d2ltTCO1rfjqhTKc4?si=seltDGQ-RvWE9fwshY-f3w
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Timestamps:
00:00 Label Frustrations
01:21 Tough Talks Early
01:43 Is It Ready
03:11 Feedback Not Gossip
04:24 Ad Break Publishing
06:12 Challenge To Improve
08:13 Learning Softer Critique
10:10 Over-communicate Always
11:05 Decisions And Regret
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Inside the Playbook: Mike Caren on Why Consistency Beats Talent in Music
16 april 2026 · 13 min
Mike Caren breaks down why consistency, discipline, and adaptability matter more than occasional flashes of brilliance in the music business. Lees meer
This clip explores the traits that help artists and executives build lasting careers: embracing change, staying open to new ideas, avoiding nostalgia, protecting your focus, and developing the self-awareness to regularly reassess your strategy.
It’s a sharp conversation on artist development, music business longevity, creative discipline, release strategy, and staying relevant in a constantly evolving industry.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2UnV1d2ltTCO1rfjqhTKc4?si=seltDGQ-RvWE9fwshY-f3w
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Timestamps:
00:00 Consistency Beats Brilliance
00:29 Adapting to Industry Change
01:27 Letting Go of Old Ways
02:47 Hip Hop Cycles and Optimism
05:54 Nostalgia vs Innovation Mindset
06:53 Distractions and Staying Focused
08:45 Quarterly Self Review Habits
10:09 Reputation Takes Time to Shift
11:16 Release Strategy and Artist Growth
13:12 Discipline and Consistency Wrap Up -
Inside the Playbook: Mike Caren on Why Most Artists Fail Before They Ever Become Great
15 april 2026 · 20 min
Mike Caren breaks down what actually creates longevity in the music business. Lees meer
This clip is about building a career the right way: bringing value instead of extracting it, thinking long term, preparing before chasing opportunity, and developing the habits that lead to real greatness. Mike also touches on confidence, artist development, smart collaboration, and the importance of understanding music publishing and songwriting royalties.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2UnV1d2ltTCO1rfjqhTKc4?si=seltDGQ-RvWE9fwshY-f3w
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Timestamps:
00:00 Value First Mindset
00:34 Longevity Over Hype
02:58 Preparation Beats Opportunity
04:02 Superstar Myth Reality
04:29 Publishing Royalties Break
05:20 Cosign Win Win Model
07:35 Traits of Long Term Thinkers
09:39 Mentorship Asking Questions
11:49 A&R Practice and Confidence
15:36 Habits of Elite Artists
17:04 Chasing More vs Mastery
19:09 Yin Yang Collaborations
19:50 Staying Fresh Closing -
The Manager’s Playbook 062: Mike Caren - A&R, Artist Development, Hit Songs & Executive Leadership in Music Business
12 april 2026 · 1 uur 30 min
Mike Caren is one of the most respected music executives of his generation. Lees meer
From his early years at Atlantic Records to building Artist Publishing Group and Artist Partner Group, Mike has played a major role in the careers of artists, songwriters, producers, and executives across the modern music business.
In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Mike for a wide-ranging conversation on A&R, artist development, music industry leadership, publishing, record labels, management, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.
Mike breaks down why great creative executives need strong opinions, why long-term thinking beats short-term hype, and how the best artists and executives separate themselves through discipline, consistency, communication, curiosity, and self-awareness. He also shares his perspective on identifying hit songs, building sustainable careers, filtering distractions in the age of social media, and creating teams that challenge artists instead of simply validating them.
This episode is a masterclass for anyone serious about artist management, music executive leadership, independent artist growth, A&R development, career longevity, and the inner workings of the music business.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
New episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET
Timestamps:
00:00 Why opinions matter
00:27 Mike Caren career breakdown
03:40 Giving back with facts
07:22 Service over extraction
08:09 Longevity mindset
17:00 Mentorship, not commands
19:10 A&R taste test routine
20:2… -
Inside the Playbook: Charlie Rocket on His Blueprint for Artist Development
6 april 2026 · 16 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Charlie Rocket breaks down how he would build an artist with no money, using speed, consistency, release strategy, and real-world fan-building. Lees meer
He talks through a no-budget artist development plan built around frequent releases, working with talented producers who believe in the vision, and staying always on so fans can build real habits around the music. Charlie also explains why mixtapes, bigger projects, versions, and steady output often do more for fan engagement, streaming growth, and artist momentum than short, low-commitment releases.
The clip also dives into real-world music marketing: listening parties, release parties, meet-and-greets, video shoots, and neighbourhood-level promotion. Charlie’s bigger point is that local scene momentum still matters, and that artists can build enough heat in real life for the internet to catch up later.
A strong listen for independent artists, managers, A&Rs, and music executives thinking seriously about music marketing, artist development, release strategy, fan-building, and long-term career growth.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rJBuPhpk34kdSw9Dc2MCX?si=OIqpw0t1R5KHv2Qa1GAnig
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Charlie Rocket on the Mindset That Breaks Artists
5 april 2026 · 12 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Charlie Rocket reflects on how he and his partners ended up managing 2 Chainz by doing the work before anyone officially gave them the title. Lees meer
What began as music marketing, mixtape promotion, CD street-team strategy, and fan-building quickly turned into something bigger. Charlie explains how they kept showing up with value: bringing a 30/60/90-day artist development plan, investing in physical promo, lining up opportunities, and creating momentum around the artist until the role naturally became theirs.
The clip also gets into a deeper idea that matters across the music business: the tension between being “smart” and being willing to move before the proof is there. Charlie argues that in artist management, A&R, artist development, and hip-hop marketing, conviction and action often create opportunities that logic alone never will.
At the centre of it all is a simple truth: sometimes you recognize superstar potential before the rest of the industry does. And if you believe strongly enough, you move accordingly.
A strong listen for independent artists, managers, A&Rs, music executives, and anyone serious about breaking artists, building momentum, and understanding how artist careers really get shaped behind the scenes.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rJBuPhpk34kdSw9Dc2MCX?si=OIqpw0t1R5KHv2Qa1GAnig
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Charlie Rocket on The Old School Music Marketing Tricks That Still Work
4 april 2026 · 12 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Charlie Rocket breaks down why so many artists in today’s music industry are too focused on virality and not focused enough on building real momentum. Lees meer
He shares a sharper approach to music marketing, artist development, fan-building, and independent artist growth: run the play, stay consistent, and boil a pot of water before trying to heat up the whole world. Using Travis Porter’s early run in East Atlanta as an example, Charlie explains how repeated club appearances, street marketing, direct fan engagement, flyers, CDs, and weekly presence helped turn strangers into loyal fans.
He also introduces his idea of “mom-ology” - the process of building superfans through connection, consistency, vulnerability, authenticity, and time spent. The clip goes further into why time spent has become one of the most important drivers of audience loyalty, and why the loss of mixtape culture changed the way hip-hop artists build fanbases, release music, and stay connected between projects.
A strong listen for independent artists, managers, A&Rs, and music executives thinking seriously about artist promotion, fan engagement, direct-to-fan strategy, and long-term music career growth.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rJBuPhpk34kdSw9Dc2MCX?si=OIqpw0t1R5KHv2Qa1GAnig
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Charlie Rocket on How Music Managers Create Momentum for Their Artists
3 april 2026 · 14 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Charlie Rocket breaks down his “Blitzkrieg” approach to music marketing; a focused 30-day sprint built around urgency, consistency, and strategic execution. Lees meer
Instead of glorifying burnout or everyday hustle culture, Charlie explains why artists, managers, and music executives often get better results from short, high-intensity bursts of artist promotion, fan-building, local market strategy, content creation, and release momentum.
He walks through how to build a 30-day promo campaign, from radio stops, DJ outreach, city runs, local collaborations, street marketing, and video drops, to creating enough touchpoints for an artist to feel impossible to ignore. He also shares a sharp lesson for managers on how to get artist buy-in: don’t pitch small asks. Pitch the bigger vision and the upside attached to it.
The clip also touches on early Travis Porter growth, using manual MySpace outreach, direct fan engagement, and zero-budget marketing to become the platform’s top unsigned act.
A strong listen for independent artists, managers, A&Rs, and anyone serious about artist development, music marketing, and building momentum in the music business.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rJBuPhpk34kdSw9Dc2MCX?si=OIqpw0t1R5KHv2Qa1GAnig
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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The Manager’s Playbook 061: Charlie Rocket - 2 Chainz, Music Marketing, Artist Development, Fan Building & Mindset
31 maart 2026 · 2 uur 36 min
In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Charlie Rocket joins us for a powerful conversation on artist development, music marketing, fan building, independent artist strategy, and the mindset required to win in the music business. Lees meer
Best known for helping build 2 Chainz and for his evolution from music executive to public speaker and entrepreneur, Charlie breaks down why he believes success often requires a level of intentional “delusion,” the kind of belief that allows artists, managers, and executives to move before the proof is there. We talk about what it really means to chase purpose over money, why overthinking kills momentum, and how some of the best careers in music are built through conviction, consistency, and action.
Charlie also shares practical gems on breaking artists without money, building authentic fanbases, local market strategy, mixtape culture, release strategy, manager leadership, publishing, label relationships, streaming growth, and audience development. From 30-day blitz campaigns and “boiling a pot of water” in one city, to winning over 2 Chainz and navigating a life-changing brain tumour diagnosis, this episode is full of hard-earned lessons on music industry strategy, artist growth, and long-term career building.
Whether you’re an independent artist, manager, A&R, music executive, or creative entrepreneur, this is a conversation about belief, leverage, execution, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
New episodes drop Tuesdays @ 10am ET
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Inside the Playbook: Tommy Brown on Why K-Pop Has Better Artist Development
30 maart 2026 · 12 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Tommy Brown breaks down why K-pop continues to win at artist development, and why its system still looks a lot closer to Motown than what much of the American music industry is doing today. Lees meer
We get into Tommy’s work in Korea, the session that led to BLACKPINK’s “Ice Cream” featuring Selena Gomez, the group’s studio discipline, and what that level of perfectionism taught him about greatness, standards, and building global artists.
Tommy also talks about fan culture, physical album sales, team structure, and why moving fast, experimenting, and “rushing to get to no” can be a real advantage in the music business.
This one is for artists, managers, producers, songwriters, and music execs trying to understand K-pop, BLACKPINK, artist development, global music strategy, and how real systems create real stars.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/71unpLmCSi3VjbieeOMiUy?si=KmFi8zCgTqmYpznq5UdhqQ
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Tommy Brown on What Netflix’s Hitmakers TV Show Left Out
29 maart 2026 · 19 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Tommy Brown reflects on his experience filming Netflix’s Hitmakers, the pressure of creating on camera, and why the show did not go deep enough into the real lives of songwriters and producers. Lees meer
We get into leadership, acceptance, collaboration, and the financial reality behind the music business, including why so many creatives are not making the money people assume. Tommy also shares how he would rather show the real process through songwriting camps, daily content, building in public, and honest storytelling around what it actually takes to build a career.
This one is for artists, managers, producers, songwriters, and music execs who care about the real work behind the scenes.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/71unpLmCSi3VjbieeOMiUy?si=KmFi8zCgTqmYpznq5UdhqQ
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Tommy Brown on The REALITY of Music Producer Fees, Points & Publishing
28 maart 2026 · 15 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Tommy Brown breaks down one of the hardest truths in the music business: huge streaming numbers do not always mean real money for songwriters and producers. We get into producer points, publishing royalties, master royalties, label negotiations, and why so many creators are still underpaid. Lees meer
Tommy also talks about learning under Rodney Jerkins, the difference between making beats and making records, and the kind of discipline it takes to build a real career in the music industry.
This one is for artists, managers, producers, songwriters, and music execs who want a clearer understanding of producer pay, publishing, music contracts, and long-term leverage.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/71unpLmCSi3VjbieeOMiUy?si=KmFi8zCgTqmYpznq5UdhqQ
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Tommy Brown on Why Music Producers Need Content
27 maart 2026 · 18 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Tommy Brown breaks down why visibility and content strategy are now part of the job for artists, producers, and songwriters. We talk about why posting consistently matters, how even simple beat videos can drive massive audience growth, and why being seen is now directly tied to opportunity in the music business. Lees meer
The conversation also gets into streaming economics, songwriter and producer pay, music publishing, Spotify, AI, user-generated remixes, catalog sales, and why publishing may be heading into a much bigger era.
This one is for artists, managers, producers, songwriters, and music execs trying to understand where the business is going next.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/71unpLmCSi3VjbieeOMiUy?si=KmFi8zCgTqmYpznq5UdhqQ
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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The Manager’s Playbook 060: Tommy Brown - Hit Records, Ariana Grande, Songwriting, Producer Splits, Publishing & Artist Development
24 maart 2026 · 2 uur 14 min
In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, I sit down with Tommy Brown (TBHits), hitmaking music producer, songwriter, and one of the most important creative forces behind modern pop music. Tommy has worked with Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, The Weeknd, Victoria Monét and more, and this conversation is a real look at what it takes to become a true hit producer in today’s music industry. Lees meer
We get into the making of “thank u, next,” what actually makes a hit record, why so many successful producers and songwriters still struggle financially, and the difference between being a beatmaker and a real record producer. Tommy also breaks down artist development, publishing, producer points, label deals, streaming economics, content strategy, K-pop systems, Netflix’s Hitmakers, and the lessons he learned studying Rodney Jerkins.
This one is for artists, managers, songwriters, producers, A&Rs, music executives, and independent artists trying to build real careers, stronger teams, better systems, and long-term leverage in the music business.
If you care about music marketing, songwriting, publishing, producer income, artist growth, streaming strategy, audience building, and career longevity, this episode is for you.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
New episodes drop Tuesdays @ 10am ET
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Inside the Playbook: LaRussell & Tietta Mitchell on LaRussell’s Operations
23 maart 2026 · 21 min
In this clip, LaRussell and his team break down what it really takes to build an independent music business at scale. Lees meer
They talk about the infrastructure behind the operation: merch, brand identity, photography, videography, editing, security, logistics, live show staffing, sound engineers, and the contractor-based team required to keep everything moving. The conversation also gets into the unglamorous side of growth: scaling from an LLC mindset into a real enterprise, tightening operations, improving tax compliance, creating better payment structures, and learning how to delegate with trust.
LaRussell also speaks on reinvesting heavily into the business, leading with belief, questioning limits, and building without relying on a traditional label system. If you’re an artist, manager, or entrepreneur trying to understand how independent artists scale, build teams, and turn momentum into infrastructure, this is a strong one.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4gh5xJy3JaJikr9JEEIZAC?si=tQwOj5sGRFKts7KWvPw3Bw
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: LaRussell & Tietta Mitchell on How LaRussell Picks Team Members
22 maart 2026 · 14 min
In this clip, LaRussell and Tietta Mitchell break down a lesson a lot of artists learn too late: before you hire help, you need to understand the work yourself. Lees meer
They talk about why doing every part of the business early on - content, posting, editing, ticketing, emails, calendars, and operations - makes it easier to train people, delegate clearly, and scale without losing standards. The conversation also traces how Tietta became essential to LaRussell’s growth: first by spotting the TikTok opportunity, then proving her value through consistency, curiosity, and learning the music business from the ground up.
If you’re an independent artist, manager, or creative operator trying to understand artist management, delegation, team building, music business education, and how to scale an independent career the right way, this is a real blueprint.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4gh5xJy3JaJikr9JEEIZAC?si=tQwOj5sGRFKts7KWvPw3Bw
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: LaRussell & Tietta Mitchell on The Music Marketing Funnel That Actually Pays
21 maart 2026 · 13 min
Most artists don’t hate ads. They hate what bad ads reveal. Lees meer
In this clip, LaRussell breaks down how he actually uses ads as an independent artist: not to force Spotify streams or fake momentum, but to amplify content that already proved itself organically. The strategy is simple but disciplined: run awareness ads behind posts that are already winning, then use retargeting, lookalike audiences, and city-specific campaigns to turn attention into real outcomes like ticket sales, merch sales, fan growth, and direct-to-fan revenue.
He also explains why shares and comments matter more than vanity metrics, how he thinks about customer acquisition cost, and why great music marketing isn’t about buying visibility. It’s about scaling demand that already exists.
If you’re an independent artist, manager, or music entrepreneur trying to understand how Meta ads, fan conversion, touring strategy, merch marketing, and artist growth actually work, this is a strong one.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4gh5xJy3JaJikr9JEEIZAC?si=tQwOj5sGRFKts7KWvPw3Bw
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: LaRussell & Tietta Mitchell on The Roc Nation Deal
20 maart 2026 · 26 min
LaRussell didn’t partner with Roc Nation because he needed a machine. He partnered because he built one first. Lees meer
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, LaRussell and his manager Tietta Mitchell break down why the Roc Nation deal made strategic sense for an already thriving independent artist business. They talk about globalizing what they’ve built, expanding into radio, publicity, DSP relationships, and late-night TV, and why the right label partnership should add value without taking control.
The conversation gets into the real mechanics of a modern record deal: a non-exclusive, short-term, project-based structure, freedom to keep releasing music independently, and the importance of negotiating label deliverables, not just artist obligations. They also speak on contract language, ownership, autonomy, direct lawyer-to-lawyer communication, and what JAŸ-Z’s influence actually meant in the bigger picture.
If you’re an artist, manager, executive, or music entrepreneur trying to understand how independence, leverage, artist development, publishing, and strategic partnerships really work in today’s music business, this episode is for you.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4gh5xJy3JaJikr9JEEIZAC?si=tQwOj5sGRFKts7KWvPw3Bw
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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The Manager’s Playbook 059: LaRussell & Tietta Mitchell - Roc Nation Deal, Independence, Ads, Direct-to-Fan, Touring & Music Marketing
17 maart 2026 · 2 uur 15 min
LaRussell is the rare independent artist who didn’t partner with Roc Nation because he needed a label. He partnered because he built enough leverage to make the label behave like a partner. Lees meer
In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, LaRussell and his manager Tietta Mitchell break down the real strategy behind signing with Roc Nation (and what artists and managers get wrong when they hear the word “signed”). We talk record deal negotiation, non-exclusive licensing deals, and how to demand label deliverables instead of vague promises. They explain how alignment with the right people, clear success metrics (radio, press, DSP relationships, late night, sustained fan growth), and protecting autonomy can turn a major partnership into a growth lever, not a loss of independence.
Then we get into the operating system: how LaRussell’s team runs independent artist infrastructure (touring, merch, releases, content), why his marketing focuses on awareness ads over streams, how retargeting and funnels actually work for artists, the difference between clipping vs seeding, and why reinvesting into a contractor-based operation is the real “major label machine” built in-house.
If you’re an artist, manager, A&R, or music entrepreneur trying to understand how independent artists make money, how modern label partnerships should work, and how to scale a music career without losing control, this one’s a blueprint.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it.KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
New episodes drop Tuesdays @ 10am ET
Chapters:
00:00 Roc Nation Partnership (Independent Arti…
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Inside the Playbook: JMSN on the Anti-Ad Music Marketing Plan
16 maart 2026 · 17 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, we get into the unglamorous side of the music business that every independent artist eventually faces: release week feels stressful because you’re the label. Lees meer
JMSN explains what it really means to self-fund your art, paying upfront for the rollout, the assets, and the overhead before you’ve made anything back. He breaks down the classic independent cash flow loop: release the project, tour to extract value from the album cycle, save what you can, and reinvest to finance the next record, while still paying for real life.
Then we talk music marketing and why JMSN has a real disdain for constant digital ads and billboard-style promotion. His long-game mindset is simple: invest in the product, protect the catalog, and let great work compound because the music is “out forever.”
There’s nuance, though. We separate album advertising from tour promotion, where ads can actually make sense because selling tickets is time-sensitive. We also get into promoter strategy, measuring ad baselines, building an email list, and why IRL postering can beat lazy online spend.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5v5XObpCdwwXn5N1OD1cFQ?si=iKzKWbABSoCiaw9hZxeuvg
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Keywords: music business, independent artist, self-funding, touring strategy, tour marketing, music marketing, Meta ads, promotion strategy, release rollout, artist management, direct-to-fan, email list, catalog strategy
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Inside the Playbook: JMSN on Why Music Videos Can Still Win for Artists
15 maart 2026 · 20 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, we talk about a music marketing truth most artists learn too late: a great music video isn’t “extra content,” it’s a long-term marketing asset. Lees meer
JMSN explains why he’d rather put his budget into visuals than into digital ads, paid social, or “content seeding” that disappears in a day. His thinking is simple: a strong video becomes an evergreen commercial for the song and the artist brand, something that can keep working for years as your catalog grows.
We also break down how “Soft Spot” shifted the conversation around whether videos still matter, why iconic visuals can still turn a casual listener into a fan, and what it looks like to operate like a creative director: storyboarding, “editing in your head,” and choosing speed and control by directing and editing the work himself. The bigger takeaway for artists and managers is practical: spend where the audience can see it, and let one great idea beat a big budget.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5v5XObpCdwwXn5N1OD1cFQ?si=iKzKWbABSoCiaw9hZxeuvg
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Keywords: music video marketing, music marketing, artist branding, independent artist, artist management, release strategy, content strategy, creative direction, video production, touring and merch, music business
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Inside the Playbook: JMSN on Why Being “Cool” Online Is Bad for Your Music Career
14 maart 2026 · 14 min
In this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, we talk about the part of the music business that’s driving artists crazy: the endless “how to blow up” social media advice that sounds confident and works for almost nobody. Lees meer
JMSN explains why he pulled back from social platforms when it started feeling awful and how the unlock was getting less precious about it all. Instead of trying to look cool or chase engagement, he treats platforms like TikTok as low-stakes distribution: post the clips, post the memes, keep the reps going, and don’t let likes define the work. Because the goal isn’t to worship the algorithm. It’s to build a real fanbase and create repeatable momentum.
We also get into how streaming behaviour has changed across platforms, why views/streams don’t tell the full story anymore (even though they can still validate what’s working), and how to lean into traction using tools like Instagram Trial Reels to reach non-followers, while keeping Instagram more curated, like an artist homepage.
And we bring it back to the stuff that still matters: early community support, Toronto roots, and the real-world moments that often start the entire chain reaction.
Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.
If you’re earning publishing income, make sure you’re collecting all of it. KOSIGN, powered by Kobalt, offers direct global publishing collections and real-time royalty transparency in a flexible, artist-friendly format. It’s highly selective, but free to apply here: https://bit.ly/4b438pj
Listen to the full episode here -
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5v5XObpCdwwXn5N1OD1cFQ?si=iKzKWbABSoCiaw9hZxeuvg
Watch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Keywords: music marketing, social media strategy for artists, TikTok for musicians, Instagram Reels strategy, YouTube growth, streaming strategy, artist development, artist management, fanbase building, momentum, independent artist, music industry