It’s been a few years since we last checked in with music manager Jordyn Elliott, and as she notes, a lot has truly happened. When we spoke previously, her career was already on the rise, but she’s now celebrating massive new achievements and a roster that’s crossing continents and genres.
Jordyn joins us for a highly anticipated follow-up interview to discuss her expanded vision and approach to artist development. We’ll dive into her pivotal management role with country/pop powerhouse Shaylen (signed to Big Machine/Nashville Harbor) and the exciting trajectory of British pop artist Karl Michael (Peer Music). Join us as we catch up with the founder of HJ Management to explore how she navigates the ever-changing landscape of the global music industry and the secrets behind her artists’ success.
What drew you to the role of an Artist Manager?
When I was younger I always thought I wanted to be a singer. I came from a very musical family. My grandma was a music teacher and sang , my mom sang and my aunts and uncles. It was when I worked for an entertainment company in London ON when I was early 20s that I saw a lot of the behind the scenes and just really enjoyed it more then the stage. I then went out to reach out to acts and just try my hand at it!
Can you share a success story or major milestone you helped an artist achieve?
Yes ! I have a couple that I am super proud of ! My most recent one was last year having my artist Shaylen sign her record deal with Big Machine Label Group/ Nashville Harbor. She accumulated over 70 million streams independently for her single “ What If I Don’t”. My other exciting achievement over the last year would have been helping my artist Karl Michael go on tour with Teddy Swims across the U.S. he did a string of dates opening for Teddy!
What are the biggest, most fundamental challenges or opportunities for emerging artists in the music industry right now?
Oo this is a great question – I would have to say social media. It changes so rapidly that I find artists have to constantly be on their socials and posting to stay relevant. I find artists get really caught up on the views and numbers that it can really affect their art and the algorithm really decides who is going to popular even if the artist is talented. BUT consistency does pay off! Another challenge I see them face is that newer artists have a hard time getting live performance gigs without already having a following on social media or know someone in the industry!
What is the single biggest thing that makes you stop and say, ‘I need to work with this artist’?
When an artist is authentically them ! When they know exactly who they are. Manufactured artists never work!
What is the biggest misconception that aspiring artists have about what a music manager actually does?
“A manager is going to make my career happen”. A good manager amplifies what is already there they don’t create success if there is nothing there. A manager can only sell what an artist is willing to do. Getting a manager too early is a big thing for aspiring artists they like to say they have a manager but it has to be the right timing to bring that person on to help an artist’s career.
If you could go back and give your younger, aspiring-manager self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don’t fall in love with the potential.. fall in love with the work and always have respect for yourself and set boundaries early on so you don’t burn out.
Last but not least, how can an artist get in touch with you?
Email : [email protected]
Instagram : @hjordynelliott