Cali: When did the idea to take on a managerial role for artists begin?
.irg: I’ve always been fascinated with the managerial/behind-the-scenes roles of the music industry. I believe that the idea has always been in the back of my head, but I wanted to know what it truly meant to be an artist before I stepped into the supporting role. I believe that being able to help the artist from the perspective of being an artist will do nothing but help me be even better at my future endeavors with managing artists.
Cali: Have you always been passionate about the music industry?
.irg: My passion for the music industry started in 2017. I grew up in a musical household, but I was never gifted in playing instruments. I love to sing and write lyrics. I believe that I’m a good facilitator and a very organized person, which allowed me to build a team that would build up the ‘.irg’ project. Even though I love the music industry now, my first love was soccer. In 6th grade, I was selected to go to the Youth Olympics in Austria to represent the United States. I then grew up playing for Hempfield School District, Manheim Central Club, and PA Classics Academy up until 2015. I didn’t end up playing soccer for the first college I attended, which was the Millersville University of Pennsylvania from 2015-17. Still, I did play for Lancaster Bible College Division III Men’s Soccer for the 17/18 & 19/20 seasons. I ended up finishing my soccer career with one collegiate goal and two assists as a CDM. I found music in 2017 after realizing that I was injury-prone and that I wouldn’t be able to play soccer forever.
Cali: What do you believe you can bring to the table for your artists?
.irg: I believe that I can bring value to artists through music management and even a biblical worldview. I’m eager to come alongside my artists with a vision to grow their craft within the music industry. Along with pushing their music across all platforms, I help craft digital strategies, develop merchandise, handle media relations, and manage song projects from beginning to end. I focus on organically developing artists to reach their full potential. I believe that our partnership is to support each other and build each other up in unity. It’s essential to have like-minded friends and live for the same goals as you to push you to be better every day.
Cali: How vital is artist development to you?
.irg: Artist development is critical because many artists out there feel like they are in this alone. The journey doesn’t have to be done by yourself, and most artists are talented enough to make it. Most need the accountability and team around them to handle the behind-the-scenes logistical tasks.
Cali: What does 2022 look like for you?
.irg: I have three artists that I manage, and I will be helping them with all their music/marketing needs. I also will continue to work on my music throughout the year. I plan on putting out three singles and an EP in 2022. I also have a day job at Fellowship International Mission as a Communication & Mobilization Associate. So, I see myself traveling a lot to Christian colleges around the country within the next year to grow the ministry that I have with college students through the help of the Lord.
Cali: Any insight or advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to kickstart their artist development service?
.irg: – If you’re going to get involved with something like this, you need to be a fan of the artist you are representing. If you don’t love their music, you won’t be pushing as hard for them as you should. I would also say that you need to be very patient. With my artists, I know that we are all in this for the long haul. Most artists that you hear on the radio have been grinding and working hard for 10+ years. My team and I are prepared to do the same.
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