Justin Samms has a different approach to achieve success in artist management.
"What I have found is that it is not enough just to be a good with booking artists and negotiating contracts. The entertainment industry has changed dramatically since the late 90's and those changes require much more diversity and a wider set of skills, talents and resources from a management team" says Samms. "Today's manager must be well-versed in public relations (including damage control) as well as marketing - especially with a new or re-emerging artist."
Samms, owner of Newland Management Group, holds a Bachelor of Science in both Electronic Engineering as well as telecommunications Management and combines his background in computers and efficiency management with a strong background in music and public speaking to utilize not only the traditional venues of artist management, but to also capitalize on the growing influence of the internet and digital media to maximize the potential for marketing the artists that he manages/co-manages.
"Effective marketing and public relations are essential. In the past, artists depended on the record labels to handle this aspect of their career. Implementing in-house resources has allowed me to have a closer relationship with my artists than a traditional-style manager. This has given me a better perspective of what the public wants and puts the artist closer to their fan base on an ongoing basis."
Current clients of Newland Management group include:
- Gary "Lil G" Jenkins (lead singer of R&B group Silk)
- Calandra "Meechi" Glenn (singer)
- Keisha Jackson (singer)
- Skye Brewer (songwriter)
- Rich Eagle (singer/songwriter)
- Tonia Morris (actor/model)
- Ghebriela (hip hop dancer)
- Laticia Jackson (fitness competitor)
- Az Yet (as acting co-manager)
- WHODINI (as agent)
- SILK (as agent)
Other relevant skills:
- Music merchandising specialist
- Plays violin, percussion instruments
, and is a prolific poet
- Studio engineering including Pro-Tools
- Strong contract negotiation skills
- Experienced in-house marketing and artist development team
- Strong computer skills and efficiency assessment
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