Former Record Exec EXPOSES What Really Happens Inside The BIGGEST Major Label!

Interscope Records is the Most Powerful Label Today. Founded in 1990 by Jimmy Iovine and Ted Field, Interscope became known for giving artists creative freedom while pushing boundaries across genres like hip-hop, pop, rock, and electronic music. The label quickly earned a reputation for signing groundbreaking talent like Dr. Dre, Eminem, , Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, Machine Gun Kelly, Avicii, U2, Olivia Rodrigo and so many other superstars. In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, we sit down with seasoned music executive and former SVP of A&R at Interscope, Nick Groff, to unpack the real story behind A&R, major labels, and artist development in today’s music industry. With a resume that includes Billie Eilish, Jacob Collier, MGK, and Avicii, Nick breaks down what it really means to discover, develop, and support artists at the highest level. From the role of data in signing talent to the pressures of working inside a label system, Nick offers sharp insights for artists, managers, and anyone navigating the business. We also dive into fan-building strategies, the rise of algorithmic discovery, creative freedom, and why relationships still matter more than ever. 00:00 Intro 02:14 Role and Misconceptions of A&R 06:04 Artist Development and Major Labels 08:57 The Influence of Data in Signing Artists 14:49 The Role of A&R in Artist Success 24:00 Case Study: Jacob Collier 36:46 Leadership at Interscope 45:02 Discovering and Signing New Talent 48:06 The Rise of Billie Eilish 53:37 Working with MGK 01:02:39 Pathways to Becoming an A&R 01:15:42 Learning and Growing in the Industry 01:24:32 The Power of Super Fans and Audience Acquisition 01:30:59 Innovative Marketing Strategies for Artists 01:35:14 The Future of Artist Management and Labels 01:45:51 Navigating Major Label Deals 01:50:11 Understanding Recoupability 01:58:52 The Role of Managers in 2025 02:05:54 Equity and Partnership in the Music Industry 02:16:13 Book Recommendations for Aspiring Artists 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: Will Dobak Co-Editor: Mauricio Ruiz Colourist: Will Dobak Sound Engineer: Francisco Sabio Project Manager: Erica Kongvongxay Marketing Coordinator: Melanie Letra-Frade Production Company: 8 Til Faint #themanagersplaybookpodcast #musicbusinesspodcast #musicbusiness #musicindustry #artistmanagement #musicbusinesstips