The Manager's Playbook 027: Ray Daniels - Jay-Z vs Bow Wow, Theron Thomas, Lizzo, Ciara, Breaking Into the Music Industry, Building His Brand & Lessons From the Greats
Ray Daniels has seen every corner of the music business, from making hits to being blackballed, from major label boardrooms to building R.A.Y.D.A.R. Management from the ground up.In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Ray gets real about what it takes to survive, and last, in an industry that changes fast. We talk managing talent like Theron Thomas, how A&R shifted with data, and why the future belongs to artists who understand both science and storytelling.No fluff. Just hard-earned lessons on equity, authenticity, and building with intention.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Watch the Episodes On Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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2:07:25
Inside the Playbook: Russ on the Dark Side of Music Success & Healing
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Russ shares the emotional cost of success and the internal reset that followed. From confronting public perception to redefining identity, he unpacks the deeper work that’s shaped his evolution as both an artist and a man.We talk emotional boundaries, mentorship, inner child healing, and what it takes to grow when the spotlight isn’t flattering.This isn’t just about the industry. It’s about becoming whole, on your own terms.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5SxBb61ZDrvXK3VIxPw5EB?si=oeEDQIJWS1WaFsTKybcPxgWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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16:16
Inside the Playbook: Russ on How His Day-One Business Partner Saved His Music Career
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Russ opens up about the pivotal moments that built his career. From Bugus filing the LLC at 18, to staying focused when things almost unraveled, to why a $250 check still means more to him than a $600K payout.This is the part of the journey most people don’t see: the loyalty, the small wins, and the grit behind the scenes that made everything else possible.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5SxBb61ZDrvXK3VIxPw5EB?si=oeEDQIJWS1WaFsTKybcPxgWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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13:11
Inside the Playbook: Russ on How He Turned Down Labels and Made $1M/Month from Masters
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Russ shares the story behind one of the most unconventional label deals in the industry.He went from making $100K/month independently to partnering with Columbia, without giving up control. Russ breaks down how he retained ownership of his TuneCore catalog, structured profit splits, and built a system that still brings in seven figures a month from masters alone.This isn’t hype. It’s a real blueprint for ownership, leverage, and long-term strategy.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5SxBb61ZDrvXK3VIxPw5EB?si=oeEDQIJWS1WaFsTKybcPxgWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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13:57
Inside the Playbook: Russ on Why $100K Won’t Make You a Star
In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Russ delivers a hard truth: success isn’t about big budgets or major connections. It’s about clarity, consistency, and calling yourself out.He shares why even $100K won’t help if the music’s not ready, how building a home studio is a non-negotiable move, and why self-delusion is the silent killer of most careers.If you’re serious about leveling up, this is the mirror moment every artist needs.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5SxBb61ZDrvXK3VIxPw5EB?si=oeEDQIJWS1WaFsTKybcPxgWatch 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.
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