Keeping it real

Happy new year, dear readers, and welcome to the first edition of tjil in 2024. As we reflect on the highs and lows of the Namibian music scene in the past year, I urge all industry stakeholders to shift focus to fostering more successes in the coming months.

In our pursuit to elevate the local music landscape, we want to emphasise the significance of artists assembling the right support systems. This column aims to shed light on why having the right management is crucial for artists aiming to propel their careers to new heights.

Times have changed. Unlike in the past when most artists wanted to sign to record labels, new artists now prefer being independent. There is nothing wrong with preferring the latter, but having a structure to handle the administrative work is important for any artist.

As many artists start to develop and grow, they should consider forming a team to help with those administrative and logistical aspects of their career that have evolved to become totally necessary to succeed in the music industry in this day and age.

I am aware that having a big team is costly, especially for upcoming musicians, hence some artists resort to doing everything by themselves. Again, there is nothing wrong with that, but having a team that handles various aspects of your brand also demonstrates a sense of professionalism.

The first team member an artist should have is a music manager. Your manager should be your right hand. This person should be able to understand your vision to a point where they are able to negotiate deals as well as build your brand on your behalf. When choosing one, I would advise that you work with someone who knows the ins and outs of the entertainment industry. This person should be the first building block in your team. They should also be someone with pre-existing relationships with publications, music promoters and other stakeholders.

If you have the means to enlist the services of a personal photographer, hire one. Having someone on standby to document not only your events but also spontaneous moments behind the scenes will only benefit your brand.

Moreover, another team member an artist should have in their circle is a mentor. A mentor may not necessarily be with you all the time or be part of your entourage, but it is good to have someone to go to for advice and guidance.

Artists have been serving us with hits and I hope in 2024 they work with the right teams to take their music to the next level. May Namibian artists all have a prosperous year filled with paid gigs and major endorsements.