Tommy Contor
Tom Rivers Agency
Roster: Homegrown Trio
State/Territory: QLD
Listen: Tommy’s Manager Of The Month Spotify Playlist
Approach to Management
I don’t think there was only one! I feel like there has been many, over the years of working in the music industry. I’ve seen deals gone wrong, bad business decisions and lot of ‘fake news’ but the one thing at the end of all of that was an artist & their creation. An artist who was likely just unaware and didn’t have the right team around them to provide them the advice, support and guidance they need at the time. More recently is the observation of how quickly this industry continually evolves. I feel like it wasn’t that long ago, I was sitting in a conference hearing that digital was going to disrupt the industry!
The Power of Community
For independent artists, building and managing a career can be difficult to navigate within a very fragmented industry. To that end, I really renounce the whole gate keeper mentality – I believe if you can add value by way of sharing and passing on knowledge – do it! “A rising tide lifts all boats!”
Inspiration and Motivation
I think it had been a long time coming but specifically the realisation of what I was truly passionate about and combining them into a career! Music and Business. On the music front, I come from a family of musicians and that was engrained in me from a young age. I started performing young and have been able to continue touring as a guitarist right up to today. On the business side, from a young age I was always dreaming up the ‘next big idea’ and have been lucky enough to work across tech, retail & medical industries in a variety of development and leadership roles. My passion for both music and business means it never feels like work! What’s the saying? If you love what you do, you never work a day in your life? (not sure if that’s completely true haha!)
AAM’s Impact
The AAM has really been there from day one thanks to Kristy Gostelow! Being an artist manager can really put you in a silo, so to be part of a community with shared values around leadership and integrity is really important to me. I appreciate each connection that I’ve made and have always felt safe to share (or usually overshare!)
I have also been fortunate enough to be a recipient of the MAICC program which supported my participation in CMA Fest in US which was an important opportunity for my artist.
Proud Moments in Management
There’s a million reasons to be proud! However, at their core, they are resilient and hard working. They never cease to amaze me how humble they are even when they really should be bragging but I guess that’s my job! They really show up even when they aren’t at their best and it’s the reason I know they will continue to build a long term sustainable career.
Direction From Reflection
One piece of advice that will always stay with me is the power of constructive reflection. Particularly important in long term strategy. Reflect often and don’t be afraid to pivot. The road is not linear – there will be ups and downs. Take the time to embrace it, take learning from it and find your peace with it!