Former BMG President Reveals The Key to Music Success

In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, we’re joined by Zach Katz, former President of BMG US, co-founder of Beluga Heights, and now co-founder of Fixated, a management company reshaping how we build for creators. Zach breaks down the shift from influencer to entrepreneur, why creators are the new power centers, and what both music and tech can learn from each other. From creator infrastructure to digital strategy, this is a blueprint for where the business is headed. Whether you're managing artists or building companies, this episode delivers sharp, actionable insight. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:51 The Importance of Mentorship 03:00 Passion for People 07:21 The Five Seats at the Table 11:43 No Plan B Mentality 23:35 Transition to Management 37:21 Building Beluga Heights 38:41 Discovering Sean Kingston 40:32 Jason Derulo's Breakthrough 45:59 Joining BMG 54:54 Innovating the Music Industry 01:00:41 Entering the Digital Entertainment Space 01:07:46 Founding Fixated 01:12:59 Inspiration from the Music Industry 01:13:55 Case Study: Sketch the Madden Streamer 01:17:52 Monetization Strategies for Creators 01:31:33 Building a Successful Team and Culture 01:39:58 The Role of Strategic Partnerships 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/themanagersplayb... 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: Francisco Sabio Project Manager: Erica Kongvongxay Marketing Coordinator: Melanie Letra-Frade Production Company: 8 Til Faint #themanagersplaybookpodcast #musicbusinesspodcast #musicbusiness #musicindustry #artistmanagement #musicbusinesstips