The Manager's Playbook
The Manager's Playbook
0
Hosted by Mauricio Ruiz, a music industry executive of 15 years, The Manager's Playbook is your essential podcast for insights into the music industry. Whether you're an artist, aspiring manager, music industry professional, or just passionate about the behind-the-scenes of the music business, this podcast is for you. Mauricio brings you in-depth interviews with top artist managers, entertainment lawyers, and other industry execs. Each episode is packed with valuable tips, real-world experiences, and expert advice to help you navigate the complexities of the music business.
Épisodes
-
The Manager’s Playbook: Nick Ruffalo II - Artist Marketing, Fan Pages, ManyChat, Audience Strategy & Music Business (EP 86) 04.10.2026 1h 58minMost artists don’t have a content problem. They have a fan-building problem.In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits back down with Nick Ruffalo, SVP of Audience Engagement at Big Loud, to break down the biggest mistake artists and teams are making in modern music marketing.Nick dives into fan pages, ManyChat automation, Instagram group chats, Spotify for Artists data, retargeting ads, content testing, audience strategy, and why views alone don’t equal real fans.This conversation is a practical playbook for artists, managers, marketers, and music executives trying to understand how to build demand, capture attention, and turn casual listeners into a real fanbase.Whether you’re developing an artist, planning a release, building a content strategy, or trying to understand what actually moves the needle in today’s music business, this episode is packed with insights you can apply immediately.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWant your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Want the full conversation? TMP Patreon members get early episodes, exclusive clips, and two live Q&As with guests every month. Join at https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheManagersPlaybook Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookNew episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET -
Inside the Playbook: Asa Asika on The Reality of Breaking Records in the TikTok Era 03.10.2026 15minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Asa Asika, longtime manager of Davido and co-founder of The Plug, talks about protecting the art before chasing the business.Asa breaks down why music has to stay rooted in creativity, instinct, and purpose, even as the industry shifts toward independence, platform-driven discovery, and new ways of building global careers.He also shares key moments from Davido’s journey, including taking risks with early DJ support, launching the “Who Is Davido?” documentary, and turning a birthday post into a major brand partnership.A sharp conversation on creativity, independence, artist strategy, brand building, and using star power for something bigger than music.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWant your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Want the full conversation? TMP Patreon members get early episodes, exclusive clips, and two live Q&As with guests every month. Join at https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheManagersPlaybook Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookNew episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET -
Inside the Playbook: Asa Asika on How To Get Brands To Pay Your Artist 01.10.2026 16minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Asa Asika, longtime manager of Davido and co-founder of The Plug, breaks down how brand deals, DJs, promoters, and local culture all connect when you’re building a global artist.Asa talks through Davido’s partnerships with brands like Martell, Puma, PlayStation, and major African phone companies, while explaining why artists have to be careful not to turn their platforms into nonstop ads.He also gets into the shift in Lagos nightlife, why the industry needs to stop calling every African sound “Afrobeats,” and how trusted DJs, street teams, and local promoters help move records and sell tickets around the world.A real look at brand strategy, touring, Afrobeats, Nigerian music, and how culture actually travels.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWant your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Want the full conversation? TMP Patreon members get early episodes, exclusive clips, and two live Q&As with guests every month. Join at https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheManagersPlaybook Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookNew episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET -
Inside the Playbook: Asa Asika on the Perfect Tour Strategy 29.09.2026 11minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Asa Asika, longtime manager of Davido and co-founder of The Plug, breaks down how Davido’s team built a real touring model across Nigeria and Africa.Asa explains why artists need to build and protect their fanbase at home, how Davido’s Nigeria tour came together, and what it takes to make African touring work at scale from promoters and sponsors to airline partners, routing, ticketing, and infrastructure.He also gets into why stronger live music systems across Africa are essential for the future of Afrobeats, and why global success means more when the foundation at home is strong.A sharp look at touring, artist management, African music infrastructure, and the business behind Davido’s global movement.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWant your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Want the full conversation? TMP Patreon members get early episodes, exclusive clips, and two live Q&As with guests every month. Join at https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheManagersPlaybook Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookNew episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET -
The Manager’s Playbook: Asa Asika - Davido, The Plug, Afrobeats, Nigerian Music, Touring Africa & Music Business (EP 85) 27.09.2026 1h 52minIn this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Asa Asika, longtime manager of Davido and co-founder of The Plug, for a deep conversation on the power of Nigerian music, the global rise of Afrobeats, and what it really takes to build infrastructure around culture.Asa breaks down how Davido became one of Africa’s biggest global stars, why Western labels often misunderstand Afrobeats, and why data alone can’t measure cultural impact. He also shares what it takes to tour across Africa, build trusted local partnerships, work with DJs and promoters, and create long-term business opportunities without losing the foundation that made the movement powerful in the first place.The conversation also explores The Plug’s growing ecosystem across management, events, distribution, publishing, sports, and brand partnerships, along with lessons on leadership, friendship, burnout, artist development, and the next chapter of Davido’s career.For artists, managers, executives, and anyone paying attention to the future of African music, this episode is a masterclass in global strategy, local culture, and building power the right way.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWant your music everywhere, properly? DistroKid is a straightforward way for independent artists to distribute globally and keep momentum moving. https://distrokid.com/Want the full conversation? TMP Patreon members get early episodes, exclusive clips, and two live Q&As with guests every month. Join at https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheManagersPlaybook Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookNew episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET -
Inside the Playbook: Joe Wiseman on How Insomniac Records Actually Works 25.09.2026 13minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Joe Wiseman of Insomniac Music Group breaks down how Insomniac Records builds global dance music campaigns through live strategy, radio, DJ promo, editorial playlists, and artist-friendly licensing deals.Joe explains why Insomniac’s biggest advantage is not just the label. It is the live ecosystem around it. From festivals and stages to genre-focused label teams, 50/50 deals, recoupable advances, and single-driven release plans, this conversation gives a clear look at how dance records break around the world.For DJs, managers, artists, label executives, and anyone studying the music business, this is a real playbook on building careers beyond streams.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
Inside the Playbook: Joe Wiseman on The EDC Festival 23.09.2026 9minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Joe Wiseman of Insomniac Music Group breaks down how Insomniac grew from underground LA warehouse raves into the culture-shaping festival experience behind EDC.Joe and Mauricio discuss the roots of rave culture, the rise of dance music in America, and why EDC became more than just a lineup. From stage design, art cars, rides, and immersive worlds to Pasquale Rotella’s creative vision and Insomniac’s focus on community, this conversation is a look at how live experiences become movements.For DJs, managers, promoters, music executives, and anyone interested in dance music culture, this is a lesson in building scale without losing the roots.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
Inside the Playbook: Joe Wiseman on How John Summit Built an Empire 21.09.2026 11minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Joe Wiseman of Insomniac Music Group breaks down how high-level dance artists build real careers by taking control of the business around their music.Joe and Mauricio discuss John Summit’s early approach to releases, marketing, DJ promo, budgets, and rollout strategy and why the strongest artists often think like their own managers. They also get into the underground DJ business, the importance of live credibility, and why streaming numbers do not always tell the full story.The conversation also explores AI’s real impact on music creation, from faceless AI artists to tools that can empower songwriters and independent artists, while raising new questions around samples, interpolation, and vocals.For DJs, managers, artists, and music executives, this is a sharp look at artist strategy, dance music, and the future of the music business.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
The Manager’s Playbook: Joe Wiseman - Insomniac Music Group, EDC, Dance Music, A&R, Artist Development, DJ Marketing & Music Business (EP 84) 20.09.2026 1h 34minIn this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Joe Wiseman, Head of Insomniac Music Group, joins Mauricio Ruiz to break down how dance artists really build long-term careers.Joe pulls back the curtain on the Insomniac ecosystem; from EDC and live bookings to 20+ label imprints, DJ support, Beatport momentum, radio, editorial, and global campaigns. He explains why dance music is not one audience, why artist identity matters, and how DJs can build real demand beyond streaming numbers.We also get into non-exclusive licensing deals, how Insomniac develops artists through live strategy, the difference between TikTok hype and real club credibility, what makes a great A&R, and where dance music is heading next.For artists, managers, DJs, and anyone trying to understand the business behind dance music, this one is full of real playbook lessons.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWant 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/@managersplaybookNew episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET -
Inside the Playbook: David Dollimore on Major Label Roster Priorities 18.09.2026 12minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, David Dollimore breaks down how major label priority really works.David and Mauricio get into what happens after a viral song starts moving, why internal champions matter inside a label, and how artists can turn one moment into a real career. They also talk release strategy, features, remixes, distribution deals, marketing support, ticket sales, and the patience required to build an artist beyond the hype.A practical conversation for independent artists, managers, A&Rs, and music executives trying to understand major label politics, artist development, and long-term career building.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
Inside the Playbook: David Dollimore on How To Start A Record Label 16.09.2026 11minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, David Dollimore breaks down what it really takes to build a modern independent label.From funding and A&R to marketing, distribution, legal costs, partnerships, and staffing, David explains why building a label properly requires more than just taste. He also gets into Disorder Records, the partnership with The Warehouse Project, signing new talent like Lex Armani, and using real data signals from TikTok, Reels, SoundCloud, YouTube, and streaming to find and amplify breakout records.A practical conversation for independent artists, managers, A&Rs, and music executives trying to understand how labels are built today.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
Inside the Playbook: David Dollimore on Music Label Culture 14.09.2026 10minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, David Dollimore reflects on the intense culture that shaped his early years at Ministry of Sound.He breaks down what it meant to deliver under pressure, how trust and loyalty led to equity, and why Ministry had to evolve beyond dance music. David also shares stories about signing London Grammar, hearing Jessie Reyez’s “Figures” for the first time, and why getting on a plane early can make all the difference.A sharp conversation on A&R, artist development, talent discovery, label culture, and the instincts it takes to spot something before the rest of the music business catches up.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
The Manager’s Playbook: David Dollimore - Ministry of Sound, RCA UK, A&R, Artist Development, Major Labels & Music Business (EP 83) 13.09.2026 1h 42minIn this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with veteran music executive David Dollimore for a real conversation about the hidden work behind building successful artists.David shares his journey from starting as an intern at Ministry of Sound, becoming an equity holder, helping sell the company to Sony Music, running RCA UK, and later co-founding Disorder Music Group.Together, Mauricio and David break down what artists, managers, A&Rs, and music executives need to understand about artist development, major label politics, signing talent, funding, streaming data, marketing, and the long game of building a career.This episode is for independent artists, aspiring artist managers, music executives, and anyone trying to understand how the music business really works behind the scenes.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWant 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/@managersplaybookNew episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET -
Inside the Playbook: Wallo267 on Earning Trust in the Music Industry 12.09.2026 15minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Wallo267 talks about building Winners Win, earning real trust with artists, and why results matter more than titles.Wallo breaks down how cultural trust is built, why every team needs doers instead of dream killers, and how learning marketing in prison helped him understand pitching, advertising, and closing opportunities.From podcast sponsorships to the spark behind the Spotify deal, this is a practical conversation for artists, managers, creators, and music business professionals who know the work matters more than the title.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
Inside the Playbook: Wallo267 on Building a Music Career With Just Your Phone 10.09.2026 8minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Wallo267 shares a simple blueprint for independent artists starting from zero.Wallo breaks down how to use your phone to record music, create content, build your artist identity, secure your name, make simple visuals, and post consistently until the audience starts to form.This is for artists, managers, and creators who keep waiting for more resources before they start. The tools are already there. The work is the separator.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
Inside the Playbook: Wallo267 on The Reality of Artist Management 08.09.2026 11minIn this clip from The Manager’s Playbook, Wallo267 breaks down why the best artist managers are more than managers. They’re all-purpose partners.Wallo explains how a great song creates opportunity, why managers need to understand the full picture of an artist’s life, and how real leverage is built through results, brand deals, equity, and follow-through.This one is for artists, managers, and music business professionals who know the title means nothing if the work does not move.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
The Manager’s Playbook: Wallo267 - Million Dollaz Worth of Game, Artist Development, Accountability, Management & Music Business (EP 82) 06.09.2026 1h 24minIn this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Wallo267, entrepreneur, author, speaker, and co-host of Million Dollaz Worth of Game, for a raw conversation on accountability, artist development, management, and building without excuses.Wallo breaks down why your phone is an “excuse killer,” how independent artists can start building with the tools they already have, and why real managers need to remove ego, do the groundwork, and want the artist to win more than anyone.From saying “yes” to yourself and learning how to say “no,” to building a real brand, protecting your name, creating leverage, pitching with confidence, and surrounding yourself with the right team, this episode is a practical playbook for artists, managers, creators, and entrepreneurs trying to build something that lasts.A conversation like this doesn’t come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWant 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/@managersplaybookNew episodes drop Sundays @ 10am ET -
Inside the Playbook: Jermaine Dupri on Writing 'We Belong Together' with Mariah Carey 04.09.2026 18minSimply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
Inside the Playbook: Jermaine Dupri on What Makes a Song Last Forever 03.09.2026 16minJermaine Dupri joins The Manager’s Playbook to talk about writing songs that last, from Jagged Edge’s “Let’s Get Married” to Usher’s “Confessions.”JD breaks down how real conversations, relationship tension, and everyday details turned into timeless records. He reflects on chasing the feeling of Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September,” realizing “Let’s Get Married” had become a forever copyright, and the Babyface moment that pushed him to prove he could keep making hits beyond Kris Kross.He also shares the story behind writing “Confessions” for Usher, how writer’s block turned into storytelling, and why the best songs often come from paying attention to what’s happening right in front of you.This clip is a songwriting masterclass for artists, producers, managers, A&Rs, and music executives studying hit records, timeless songs, and the creative process behind music that lasts.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Book a 1-on-1 meeting with the guests you’ve been watching. See who's available on The Manager's Marketplace: https://themanagersplaybook.com/homeWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook -
Inside the Playbook: Jermaine Dupri on What Makes a Superstar 02.09.2026 18minJermaine Dupri joins The Manager’s Playbook to talk about spotting superstar talent, discovering Kris Kross, writing “Jump,” and why hit records still matter more than hype, charts, or streaming numbers.JD breaks down how he identifies artists with real star potential, from Bow Wow’s hunger to Latto standing out early, and explains why making undeniable songs has always been the foundation of the music business.He also reflects on how “Jump” changed his life, the role his father played as his manager, and why younger artists, managers, A&Rs, and music executives need to stay focused on the one thing that still moves everything forward: the song.This clip is a lesson in instinct, artist development, and what it really takes to build a lasting career in music.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 Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Populaire dans
Ce podcast figure aussi dans les classements de podcasts de ces pays.