What exactly is an 'A&R' rep anyway? We hear the term all the time, and most of us have a certain picture in our mind. But is it correct? Here's a short job description.
An A&R Reps Primary Job:
Seek talent by:
- Auditioning demo tapes (solicited, as well as unsolicited, depending on record label policy.) If interested, ask to see artist perform live.
- Attending live shows at clubs, showcases, concerts, and other venues. Also visiting artist/band website and social neteworking sites like Twitter and Faceboook.
- Following leads from any ‘buzz’ created by artists.
- Checking industry insiders (managers, agents, attorneys, concert promoters, label promo reps, retail contacts, trade and consumer press tips, regional ‘scenes’, or other sources.)
- Watching for talent on other labels, who’s contracts are expiring.
Other Responsibilities
- Evaluate talent and match with potential audience tastes.
- Sign talent to label with executives approval.
- Search for new songs for existing talent on the label.
- Coordinate label relationships for an artist, once they are signed to the label.
- Provide creative input and direction on artist’s material.
- Find suitable producers and recording studios.
- Plan the recording budget with the business affairs department.
