The dictionary defines the term “Behind the Scenes” as, “Revealing what is done out of public view“. I define the term as ”the general’s work”. I say this because these are the works that get executed by people taking orders from the general. My definition does not reflect the work orders of Tricia Jamanila. Tricia, aka Ms. To The Top is the co-founder and creative director of Chicharon Adventures, contributing editor of Backside Records, all around consultant for different lifestyle companies and the Rhythm Natives’ manager/publicist. She is the one that handles all of the business planning and execution for the Rhythm Natives. She is a one-woman-agency that is always on the go, but I’ve managed to steal 30 minutes of her busy schedule and asked her questions about being a manager, musical tastes, current projects and what pushes her creativity to do bigger and better things.
What is your name and what do you do?
Tricia Jamanila and my resume reads like this: USC educated, co-founder and creative director of Chicharon Adventures (CA), manager of the Rhythm Natives (RN), contributing editor for the online division of Backside Records, and a consultant for several existing and developing companies.
What other creative outlets are you currently involved in?
Thankfully, everything I’m involved in right now allows me to be creative already. With CA, I am writing, photographing, and conceptualizing every day. With RN, I am constantly strategizing. And as a contributor and consultant, I am always thinking outside the box.
How long have you been in Artist Management?
Just for a year, which is how long I’ve been managing the Rhythm Natives. I started as their publicist and soon after, moved to bigger things. Prior to working with them, I was assisting other artists, but not on the management level. I was producing gigs and doing PR for them.
What are some of the nightmares of being an Artist Manager?
I try to not think like that, but as a manager of an emerging band, I’d have the nightmare of one day people only listening to what society/pop culture told them to listen to. That wouldn’t be good.
How do you balance personal life with your professional life (lives)?
Time management is something that I’m still trying to perfect. I’m always on a schedule, and that can affect my personal relations. But I’m blessed to be around people who lift me up and who understand what I’m doing. There are times when I have to make sacrifices, and that’s okay, because no matter how many things I’m involved in, I still have to enjoy the fruits of my labor.
Is Los Angeles a tough market to handle when it comes to music?
Los Angeles can be a cold city. The talent pool is huge here. But that can either motivate you or discourage you. At the same time, Los Angeles can be a great city to launch in because of the many surrounding inspirations. Successful artists have come out of LA, and successful artists are still coming out of LA. It’s what you make of it.
Any crazy industry stories?
So far, none. But my boys are dropping their album in October, and who knows what can happen!
There are promoters out there that are shady, any run-ins with any?
No comment.
What do you think of the resurgence of the independent movement?
I wouldn’t call it resurgence; I think it’s always been around. But I do think that people are paying more attention to it. Mainstream music has become redundant – in airplay, in lyrics, and even in sound. So people are forced to seek out more music, which is a beautiful thing. Without it, people wouldn’t stay creative. And that goes both for the listener and the artist.
What advice can you give to people who may be interested in an Artist Management career?
There are only two qualifications for the job: believe in your artist, and act on that faith.
I know you are always running around everywhere, what is in your essential kit before leaving the house?
Blackberry, sunglasses, notebook and fine point pen, camera, and Parliament Menthol Lights.
What music are you currently listening to?
Rhythm Natives advanced tracks, Anthony Hamilton, Drake, The XX, and Quadron.
Any last words?
To the top!
by exaktoh
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