In an industry often focused on artists and their stardom, it’s rare to find a moment that puts the spotlight on the unsung heroes—managers and A&Rs. But Madverse Music flipped the script, hosting Madverse for Managers, an exclusive event at Social Saket, dedicated to the people who do the heavy lifting behind the scenes.
This one-of-a-kind gathering wasn’t about networking for its own sake. It was about creating a space where the industry’s core strategists could breathe, connect, and dive into what’s next for artist management and development. With a blend of workshops, a rich panel discussion, and plenty of opportunities to kick back, Madverse for Managers delivered both insights and inspiration.
Why Managers and A&Rs? Why Now?
The brainchild of Madverse Music, this event was born from a clear vision: to foster collaboration among managers and A&Rs who are shaping the future of music. “These are the people who carry the industry forward, who build and sustain artists’ careers. They deserve a moment to regroup, relax, and ask—what’s next?” shared the Madverse team.
Workshops: Learning the Business of Music
The evening began with two power-packed workshops:
- Decoding Copyrights with Mandar Deshpande, National Manager, IPRS:
Led by Mandar Deshpande, National Manager at IPRS, this session demystified one of the most complex aspects of the music business: copyright management. Attendees gained clarity on protecting their artists’ creative rights and ensuring fair royalty distributions. Deshpande emphasized the significance of legal literacy in an industry where rights management can make or break careers. - A&R and Creative Branding with Rajrishi Murthi, A&R Manager at Bluprint INC.: Rajrishi Murthi took the stage to discuss the evolving role of A&Rs in modern music. This session highlighted the importance of collaborative storytelling, where managers and A&Rs work together to build authentic, long-lasting artist brands. Murthi’s actionable tips focused on how managers can strategically position artists while staying true to their unique voices, creating a balance between creativity and marketability.
- Challenging the Myths and Looking Ahead:
The panel discussion, moderated by the inimitable Shilpi Gupta, brought together industry leaders like Bhavya Anand (Bluprint), Yama Seth (Level House), Agam Walia (TM Talent Management), and Meher Sachdeva (UnderTheRadar). Over an hour, they unraveled key strategies for navigating the next five years in artist management.
Key Highlights:
- Defining Your Vision:
The panel stressed the importance of having a clear artistic vision. Managers and A&Rs must act as navigators, helping artists articulate their goals and translating them into actionable plans. “Without a roadmap, even the best talent can lose its way,” remarked one panelist. - Understanding the Business:
Beyond creativity, panelists discussed the need for managers to master the business side of the industry. From legal contracts to DSP strategies, a well-rounded understanding is crucial for long-term success. - Authenticity Over Trends:
In an era dominated by fleeting viral moments, the panel championed authenticity. “Music that resonates comes from a genuine place,” said one of the panelists. Building an artist’s brand around their core identity ensures sustainable success rather than chasing temporary popularity. - Mastering Social Media Storytelling:
Panelists highlighted the importance of social media personas, encouraging managers to craft cohesive narratives that align with an artist’s brand while engaging with fans meaningfully. - Taking Ownership:
A recurring theme was responsibility. Managers were urged to take proactive steps in career development, emphasizing steady growth over shortcuts. “Strong music and clear vision will always attract the right kind of support,” the panel concluded.
A Rare Industry Moment
For the attendees, the evening wasn’t just informative—it was a rare chance to step out of the daily grind and reflect on their shared challenges and opportunities. Between sips and a live indie set to close the night, the event proved that growth doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes a community.
A Vision for the Future
At its core, Madverse for Managers was more than an event—it was a statement. With initiatives like this, Madverse Music is setting a benchmark—reminding us that the heart of the music industry doesn’t just beat on stage but in the relentless efforts of those who nurture, guide, and amplify the artists we love. Here’s to more such evenings, where collaboration lights the way forward.
