The Manager’s Playbook 037: Jared Cotter - Shaboozey, Paul Russell, Jay Sean, Building Superstars Independently, Shaboozey’s Rise, Country Music & Leadership Lessons
Jared Cotter is the manager behind one of the biggest independent success stories of the decade.In this episode, we talk about how Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” made history, spending 19 weeks at #1 and tying the record set by Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road”. But unlike most chart-toppers, this run happened completely independent, through Empire and his record label, American Dogwood.Jared shares what it’s really like to manage a superstar in real time: the chaos, the delegation, the importance of building the right team, and how to keep artists balanced when the pressure is nonstop. We also dive into the nuances of publishing deals, the unexpected opening in country music, and the launch of his 3AM Records label, a venture spotlighting global voices that deserve more recognition.This is more than a story about a hit song. It’s about leadership, trust, and what independence at scale really looks like in today’s music industry.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookNew episodes drop Tuesdays @ 10am ET
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1:20:28
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1:20:28
Inside the Playbook: Loren Medina on How to Pitch as an Artist
In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, publicist Loren Medina unpacks the evolving music industry and what independence really means for artists today. She challenges the myth that signing to a label guarantees success, pointing to examples like Bad Bunny to show how ownership and freedom have reshaped the game.Loren shares practical strategies for building PR from scratch, crafting effective pitches, and using storytelling as a tool to connect with audiences. She also highlights powerful redemption stories that prove adversity can become an artist’s greatest asset.Whether you’re an up-and-coming artist or a seasoned executive, this conversation is packed with insights on navigating the modern music business with purpose and strategy.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4e0rjJHHyChVBTpuz4ahNh?si=2cXzGUGBSRu9fJy6b_7hhQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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18:25
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18:25
Inside the Playbook: Loren Medina on The #1 Thing Missing in the Music Industry - Strategy
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, publicist Loren Medina talks about what it’s really like to work with record labels from the outside. She explains why so many label teams lack long-term strategy, even for major artists, and how her structured approach sets her apart.Loren shares her experience promoting Jessie Reyez in both English and Latin markets, reflects on the importance of humility and authenticity in artists, and explains why values and alignment are non-negotiable in PR. She also opens up about refusing to work with entities that support harmful politics or social injustice, and why genuine human connection is still the foundation of great publicity.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4e0rjJHHyChVBTpuz4ahNh?si=2cXzGUGBSRu9fJy6b_7hhQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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19:27
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19:27
Inside the Playbook: Loren Medina on The Brutal Reality of the Music Industry
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, publicist Loren Medina shares her journey from leaving Sony to launching Digital Girl in 2009, one of the first social media marketing companies in music. She reflects on navigating the early days of digital marketing, the importance of innovation and branding, and how those experiences shaped her move into PR.Loren also opens up about the realities of the industry, her work with major artists, and how her family heritage has influenced her path. The conversation closes with the story behind founding Guerrera PR and the values that continue to drive her work today.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4e0rjJHHyChVBTpuz4ahNh?si=2cXzGUGBSRu9fJy6b_7hhQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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16:30
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16:30
Inside the Playbook: Loren Medina on The #1 Mistake Artists Make When Hiring a Publicist
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, publicist Loren Medina shares why passion is the foundation of every client relationship she takes on. From choosing artists based on authenticity, to navigating the evolving role of PR in the age of social media, Loren gives an unfiltered look at how storytelling drives careers forward.She breaks down her work with artists like Jessie Reyez, the strategy behind J Noa’s rise, and how moments like Tiny Desk can transform an artist’s path. Along the way, Loren discusses timing, dedication, and why the future of good PR is about much more than press releases; it’s about narrative, connection, and knowing when to strike.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4e0rjJHHyChVBTpuz4ahNh?si=2cXzGUGBSRu9fJy6b_7hhQWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Hosted by Mauricio Ruiz, a music industry executive of 15 years, The Manager's Playbook is your essential podcast for insights into the music industry. Whether you're an artist, aspiring manager, music industry professional, or just passionate about the behind-the-scenes of the music business, this podcast is for you. Mauricio brings you in-depth interviews with top artist managers, entertainment lawyers, and other industry execs. Each episode is packed with valuable tips, real-world experiences, and expert advice to help you navigate the complexities of the music business.