05/10/2025
Aside from praising his Oga and always eulogizing him, what does Isreal DMW actually do for Davido and his 30BG team?
He is the Logistics Manager for Davido.
This is just one example of the many roles that make up a typical artist team.
Let’s take another example: Burna Boy.
Burna travels with a crew of over 32 people to almost every event and concert, each person playing a specific role and earning handsomely. While such a large team suits Burna Boy’s status as a global superstar, as an upcoming or independent artist, you don’t need such a large team yet.
Here’s what you should know: building a team isn’t about size—it’s about strategy and functionality.
What Makes Up a Typical Artist Team?
1. Artist Manager
The manager is your primary support system. They oversee your career, secure opportunities, negotiate deals, and ensure you’re on track to achieve your goals.
In most cases, the manager acts as the artist’s representative and can make decisions on their behalf. Essentially, they are the other side of the artist who doesn’t create or perform music.
2. Business Manager
Focused on the financial side of your career, they manage your income, budget, and expenses. In some cases, they may also double as an accountant.
3. Media/Publicist/PR
This person manages your public image, secures interviews and media coverage, and handles crisis communications to protect your reputation.
4. Entertainment Lawyer
Your lawyer ensures your interests are protected by reviewing contracts, negotiating terms, and ensuring you’re not exploited in deals or agreements.
5. Accountant
Responsible for keeping your finances transparent, filing taxes, tracking earnings, and ensuring financial growth.
6. Road Manager
Handles all travel arrangements, accommodations, show schedules, and ensures everything runs smoothly during tours. They also liaise with promoters to ensure performances are well-coordinated.
7. Security/Protocol
Keeps you safe during public appearances, concerts, or events. A good security team consists of trained professionals who understand safety protocols—not just bouncers with big chests and arms.
8. Disc Jockey (DJ)/Live Band
Your music needs to sound top-notch during performances. A DJ or live band ensures this, creating an unforgettable experience for your fans.
A live band is like a team within a team, often having its own rider, sound engineers, logistics manager, and security. (For example I and my team QUADPLAY BAND has performed with Davido in Morroco, Dubai, Cameroon, Bayelsa, Lagos and many other places, we had our own Rider and team that includes logistics manager, Road manager, Band manager, sound engineer and video grapher)
I will talk about artist rider tomorrow.
9. Logistics Personnel
This is where Isreal DMW comes in. A logistics manager handles behind-the-scenes tasks: arranging transport, equipment, and resolving last-minute issues.
They coordinate travel, ensure smooth movements during shows, manage equipment, and handle unforeseen challenges like area boys, coordinate babes for the night, check for the dealer with the best loud and canadian.
They often travel ahead of time with the road manager to prepare the location.
(Caveat: This post does not endorse the use of illegal substances by artists, but we’re being realistic about what happens in the industry.)
For Emerging Artists
You don’t need a massive team to start. Focus on the essentials:
1. A trusted manager to oversee your career.
2. Someone to handle social media and basic PR.
3. A good DJ or producer to ensure your music sounds great.
4. A solid understanding of legal and financial basics until you can afford professionals.
Remember, as you grow, you can expand your team. The goal is to build a team that evolves with your career.
In the coming days, I’ll break down each role and explain how they can help you scale your music career.
Tag an artist who needs this knowledge, and let’s build the future stars of tomorrow!
