Manager Spotlight offers a small insight into the heads of incredible managers. This week in the spotlight is Accelerator Manager Jamie Ibe. 

How long have you worked in Management? 

It’s been a amazing few years now managing and loving the career journey across the music industry. My job is to protect talent and present the talent in a way that people will love them. I love the guiding of careers from a early stage as the artists progress through in their journey.  It’s been exciting, I always love the analogy of music management role is similar to a football match but imagine your playing yourself.

Who do you manage now?

I am currently managing Geovarn, Kadeem Tyrell, Lottie Jade, Richy Rambo and Ben Charles. All super talented individuals across the entertainment industry in different spaces and on different individual journeys across music.

Where did you find your first client and what inspired you to take them on?

My first client was introduced to me by a friend, we then met and spoke music and started plotting out takeover. Speaking on the journey and how we could work together sort of helped us iron out what we n you see to do and the best way we could help each other. Always grateful for the introduction as at the time I get as looking for artists but also very much concentrating on building my company studio so it worked hand in hand.

What’s a good/bad day at work look like for you? 

A good day is being a super productive and getting as much done as possible on the go. I love those sorts of days where i eat on the go, go from A to B, on set and end the day exhausted like I did the whole day in the gym. My favourite sorts of day is one where things get done and I really enjoy the hustle running around doing everything.

What has been the highlight of your management career to date?

The biggest highlight of my career so far was securing a distribution deal and getting selected for the Accelerator program both achievements have allowed me to progress. Another highlight mention which made me super happy was being selected as one of the Music Week Rising Star.

What do you think are the big challenges for a manager in 2021?

The big challenges for managers in 2021 is finding those pockets in which to excel and drive forward in a restricted music market due to the pandemic. Another challenge will be making sure you are keeping your artists motivated as always and finding new business while also retaining business in a tough climate. Sourcing opportunities and making sure a sustained income is viable at all times will continue to be challenging.

What music are you currently listening to?

I’m currently listening to RnB, Trapsoul and Rap in my car and on the go. My artist’s new track Kadeem Tyrell featuring Omar is out now. Amazing for my client to get a track with a soul legend so happy about that. Also most recently had the new lil baby and lil Durk ‘please’ track from their new project on repeat.