Issue One - The Weekend Riot

TWITTER: @OLIVIAIAFRATE
Manager Q AND A: Olivia Iafrate
Name: Olivia Iafrate
Hometown: Allston, Massachusetts
Resume: Manager to The House On Cliff
Years Managing: 3
How did you get into management?
My mom has been in the music industry most of my
life, so I grew up going to shows and observing what is
was like working in the industry.
What is a typical day in the life of a manager?
When we are on tour I drive the van, check into venues,
tell the band/artist what the day is going to be like,
make sure the band is where they need to be when
they need to be there, sell merch, book hotels, make
travel plans, set up interviews, and make sure the band
has food/water/whatever they need. When we aren't
on the road, I usually do a lot of work on my computer
to design merch/CDs, take photos of the guys, order everything,
design/update the website, schedule rehearsals
for the band, go to meetings, and other things I can't
remember that I do.
How do you choose the bands you manage?
I don't look for bands to manage. I only focus my time
on The House on Cliff. In terms of what I would look for
though, the band has to have raw talent, amazing energy
on stage, and every member has to be personable,
genuine, and in it for the music NOT the fame.
Any advice for new managers?
Be strong for your band/artist, hold them up and remember
sometimes tough love is the way to go. I have
a unique managing style with The House on Cliff, we
are all great friends and we trust each other no matter
what. Trust and understanding is VERY important in this
industry. Make sure you believe in the artist/band with
every fiber in your being before you sign on to manage
them. You will be doing them a disservice if you do not.
Love what you do and have fun!