1. YOU ARE A BUSINESS – being creative doesn't disqualify you from being a business. In fact, you have
the potential to generate a turnover annually, whether it be a few thousand rand or millions of rand.

2. MOST ARTISTS SHY AWAY FROM THE BUSINESS SIDE OF THE INDUSTRY – whilst I completely understand
that for the most part, creative people prefer spending time being, well creative, in order to be
successful in the music business, you need to learn and understand at least the basic principles of the
music industry, and grasp the basic concepts of business practice. This is easily achieved through articles
available on the Internet, and also through attending courses and workshops. Don't be afraid to ask
questions. You also need to realize that success does not happen overnight, but is instead a process
that takes considerable effort, time and for the most part monetary investment. Talent is but a small
part of the industry.

3. YOU NEED TO FORM A SOLID FOUNDATION – spend a little more time building a solid foundation for
your business to operate from, this will include a business plan, registering a company, researching your
field, selecting a team to work with, researching your competitors, financial projections, networking for
gigs and promotions on radio and television, attending music seminars and workshops. So that when
you are successful, you can enjoy the fullness of that success without having to waste valuable networking
time and resources addressing problems.

4. YOU HAVE A LIMITED TIME SPAN FOR YOUR CAREER – the average career lifespan is about 45 years. You
need to plan for income through your music in the turbulent and often unpredictable music business
(this is simply because the market is consumer driven). Very few artists enjoy a 45 year music career.
You have to maximize every opportunity that presents itself, because the reality is that you may only
enjoy a season of success (a few years maybe even a decade in the industry). You literally cannot afford
to be lazy or 'half-hearted' about the business of your music. Approach the business side with as much
enthusiasm and interest as the creative side of the industry, and you will be successful.

1. PERSONAL MANAGER – as the single most important team player, your personal manager should be very
well connected and influential in the music industry, have a track record of success and generally;
Your personal manager is responsible for:

• Making business decisions (which label to sign with, publishing, etc)
• The creative process (which producers, photo shoots, image, which songs to record)
• Heading the team of agents,lawyers, and business managers – see points below
• Generally be a buffer between your personal life and public image

2. BUSINESS MANAGER is a term to describe an accountant. Your accountant should be qualified and registered
with the appropriate financial boards; and is responsible for bills and wills, investments, retirement
plans, trusts, and anything to do with your financial income and expenditure.

3. LAWYERS – simply, a good lawyer is there to structure business deals that are in your favour.

4. AGENTS - are really required to book gigs. They deal with the manager and not the artist, so that the
manager and agent can best structure a deal for the artist that will be of most benefit to the artist.

Over the years spent in the music industry, there is one observation that stands out.
There is no lack of talent, only a lack of discipline.

If you approach your music career as a business using the guidelines above, you will be on the road to success
in the industry. But be warned, it is not a journey for the faint hearted. Persevere. And persevere.