The Manager’s Playbook 043: Nic D – 1.5B Streams, Independence, Content Strategy, Streaming Revenue, Mindset, No Label, No Manager & The New Music Business Model
What if you built a billion-stream music career, without a label, manager, or industry connections?That’s exactly what Nic D did. From Culpeper, Virginia, he turned $250-per-song releases and short-form content into a thriving independent business, all while staying self-managed and completely in control.In this episode, Nic breaks down his entire system, from how he budgets every release to how he uses content as his live show. He shares how discipline, data, and mindset turned his catalog into consistent streaming income and freedom on his own terms.We talk about:- Building a profitable indie music model from scratch- How to release a song with $250 and break even from streams- Turning short-form content into real audience growth- Mindset, self-mastery, and creative consistency- Building community instead of chasing playlistsWhether you’re an independent artist, music manager, or entrepreneur, this conversation breaks down what it really takes to win without the machine.This isn’t luck. It’s leverage.It’s the new blueprint for independence.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybookNew episodes drop Tuesdays @ 10am ET
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2:09:10
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2:09:10
Inside the Playbook: Nick Jarjour on Why Songs Became More Valuable Than Ever
Nick Jarjour shares the inside story behind Hipgnosis Songs Fund, the company that redefined how the world values music.From his work alongside Merck Mercuriadis to building one of the most innovative catalog funds in history, Nick reveals how Hipgnosis raised the music multiple, shifted the economics of creativity, and gave songwriters the recognition they’ve long deserved.He also reflects on the creation of the Grammy Songwriter of the Year Award, the fight for fair compensation, and the deeper purpose behind being a true artist advocate.This episode is a masterclass in vision, business, and belief. A reminder that protecting the people who create culture is how you build legacy.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4cCKBEnwxpbiKPW2MPFJtn?si=-kw056BBQnKZwSC-eGyS8QWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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18:58
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Inside the Playbook: Nick Jarjour on The Genius Behind Rihanna’s ‘Needed Me’
Nick Jarjour shares the story of Starrah, one of the most transformative songwriters in modern music. From crafting Rihanna’s “Needed Me” to shaping global hits for Camila Cabello and Maroon 5, Starrah’s journey is a masterclass in authenticity, creativity, and vision.In this conversation, Nick explores how she redefined the relationship between artist and songwriter, why context is king, and how mental health and emotional intelligence shape long-term success. He also unpacks the idea of Return on Emotion (ROE), a reminder that the most meaningful rewards in music aren’t always financial.This episode dives deep into the intersection of culture, creativity, and strategy, and what it really takes to build a legacy that lasts.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4cCKBEnwxpbiKPW2MPFJtn?si=-kw056BBQnKZwSC-eGyS8QWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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18:49
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Inside the Playbook: Nick Jarjour on The Real Laws of Music Management
Nick Jarjour takes us inside the real world of music management.In this conversation, Nick breaks down what it truly means to manage artists and songwriters at the highest level: protecting their vision, aligning with their values, and helping them navigate the demands of the modern industry.He shares insights on why the best songwriters think like artists, how to build sustainable careers rooted in morals and principles, and what it takes to lead with integrity in an environment built on constant change.This episode is a masterclass in creative leadership, a must-listen for anyone serious about building a lasting career in music.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4cCKBEnwxpbiKPW2MPFJtn?si=-kw056BBQnKZwSC-eGyS8QWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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15:36
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Inside the Playbook: Nick Jarjour on The Real Story Behind Kanye’s Documentary
Nick Jarjour opens up about the making of In Whose Name, a powerful and deeply human documentary on Ye that explores the intersection of mental health, creativity, and control.In this conversation, Nick reflects on the challenges of protecting artistic truth while navigating the emotional and ethical weight of telling someone else’s story. It’s a rare look into what it means to balance creative freedom, responsibility, and integrity in modern culture.If you care about storytelling, leadership, and the realities of the creative industry, this one will stay with you.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/4cCKBEnwxpbiKPW2MPFJtn?si=-kw056BBQnKZwSC-eGyS8QWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
Hosted by Mauricio Ruiz, a music industry executive of 15 years, The Manager's Playbook is your essential podcast for insights into the music industry. Whether you're an artist, aspiring manager, music industry professional, or just passionate about the behind-the-scenes of the music business, this podcast is for you. Mauricio brings you in-depth interviews with top artist managers, entertainment lawyers, and other industry execs. Each episode is packed with valuable tips, real-world experiences, and expert advice to help you navigate the complexities of the music business.
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