Music Exec REVEALS The Secrets to Build Artist Longevity

Lola Plaku has been behind the scenes of some of hip-hop’s biggest moves, working with artists like French Montana and Big Sean, and now leading a powerful mentorship movement for women in music through Girl Connected. In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Lola breaks down her path from music journalism to street teams, tour management, and artist development. She shares real-world lessons on audience engagement, label communication, and what it actually takes to build and sustain a career in music. Whether you're a manager, artist, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with game. Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 01:57 Early Career and Networking 04:16 Rise in the Music Industry 07:04 Community and Collaboration 09:46 Transition to Concert Promotion 31:19 The Hustle Behind Booking French Montana 33:40 Building a Street Team for Big Sean 37:02 From Street Teams to Tour Management 51:33 The Importance of Live Performances 01:04:33 Selling Out Shows: The Secret Sauce 01:06:29 The Art of a Great Performance 01:13:00 Touring Challenges and Realities 01:15:21 Empowering Women in the Music Industry 01:28:41 Success Stories from Girl Connected 01:38:38 Reflections on Bishop's Legacy 01:41:10 Navigating the Music Industry: Challenges and Insights 01:44:58 The Role of Labels and Effective Communication 01:48:12 Balancing Artistry and Business 02:08:56 Future Plans and Final Thoughts The opinions shared by our guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or The Manager’s Playbook. Book a 1:1 Strategy Session with Mauricio Ruiz, host of The Manager's Playbook, with over 16 years of experience for tailored advice for artists and managers. Consultation Fees Apply https://calendly.com/themanagersplaybook Follow The Manager's Playbook Newsletter https://www.the-managers-playbook.bee... Instagram   / mauroisruiz   TikTok   / managersplaybook   Facebook   / mngrsplaybook   X   / mngrsplaybook   LinkedIn   / the-managers-playbook   Snapchat   / bcaz8cvw   Website https://mngrsplaybook.com Host: Mauricio Ruiz Executive Producer: Mauricio Ruiz Director of Photography: Will Dobak On Location Sound: Jesse Lopez Editor: Max Carmona & Madison Lair Co-Editor: Mauricio Ruiz Colourist: Max Carmona & Madison Lair Sound Engineer: Madeline Currie Project Manager: Erica Kongvongxay Marketing Coordinator: Melanie Letra-Frade Production Company: 8 Til Faint #themanagersplaybookpodcast #musicbusinesspodcast #musicbusiness #musicindustry #artistmanagement #musicbusinesstips