Many bands simply will not function without a manager. The creative aspect of being in a band can be divisive enough, without throwing in managerial responsibilities as well. Managing your band is time consuming and can divert your focus away from writing, recording and practicing.

Making arrangements around other commitments, booking shows, promoting, trying to build a fan-base and keeping the lead singer’s ego/girlfriend/drug habit in check is a lot to keep on top of! This is where a manager can step in and give you time to focus on the music.

Of course, in addition to being someone who can take care of some of your business related responsibilities, a good manager is one who has some contacts that can help you in your music career - contacts at labels, with promoters and agents, with the press, and so on.