Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — Applications are now open for the Artist Management Bootcamp (AMB) — an intensive program launched by the MDLBEAST Foundation to fast-track the careers of up-and-coming artist managers across the MENA region. Designed to empower the next wave of music industry professionals, the bootcamp offers hands-on training and insights to help shape and support the region’s future breakout talent.
The Artist Management Bootcamp offers an in-depth, real-world curriculum tailored to the demands of today’s music industry. Participants will gain the tools, strategies, and connections they need to successfully guide an artist’s career — from branding and contract negotiations to planning tours, securing sponsorships, and managing revenue streams.
Applicants can choose between a three-week interactive virtual bootcamp or a two-week immersive, in-person experience in Riyadh. Both tracks deliver the same comprehensive curriculum and culminate in a certificate ceremony at XP Music Futures 2025, where graduates are formally recognized and welcomed into the XP Artist Manager Association.
The curriculum is designed to cover every major facet of artist management. Topics include the foundations of management, communication skills, data analysis, business partnerships, copyright and publishing, record label structures, A&R processes, revenue models, artist wellbeing, and the latest in music technology and innovation. Participants will also gain insight into managing producers, securing merchandise deals, building fan bases, and navigating contracts such as 360 deals and distribution agreements.
The second edition of the bootcamp saw 35 graduates complete the program, establishing a strong foundation for their careers in music. The 2024 initiative featured a stellar lineup of mentors, including Pirlanta Touba (LSL Music), Grace Russo (Skretz Entertainment), Cristiana Votta (Alegria Agency, representing Black Coffee and THEMBA), Karima Damir (Director of A&R MENA, Warner Music), Carlo-Alberto Cavalloti (2C Artists), and Dan Gray (Manager to Yoda & Rob Da Bank).
At XP Music Futures 2024, the AMB had a standout presence, including a panel discussion and certificate ceremony, with support from partners such as YouTube, Glava, MDLBEAST Records, Sony Music Group, and Warner Music Group. This strong industry backing helped amplify the impact of the program and solidify its position as a career-launching platform.
In 2025, the bootcamp returns with a refreshed program that reflects the latest shifts in the global music industry. Sessions will be delivered through classroom-style instruction, with interactive discussions designed to build practical skills and industry awareness. According to MDLBEAST, the program aims to create well-rounded managers who are prepared to navigate the complexities of the modern music business with confidence and clarity.
Graduates will leave the bootcamp with a certificate from XP Music Futures, access to a professional toolkit tailored to artist management, membership in the XP Artist Manager Association, and a network of regional and international industry professionals.
This opportunity is open to aspiring or early-career artist managers with up to three years of experience and a passion for music. Applicants are expected to have some knowledge of the music or entertainment industry, and preferably hold a bachelor’s degree in Music Business or a related field.
In 2025, the bootcamp returns with a refreshed program that reflects the latest shifts in the global music industry. Sessions will be delivered through classroom-style instruction, with interactive discussions designed to build practical skills and industry awareness. According to MDLBEAST, the program aims to create well-rounded managers who are prepared to navigate the complexities of the modern music business with confidence and clarity.
Graduates will leave the bootcamp with a certificate from XP Music Futures, access to a professional toolkit tailored to artist management, membership in the XP Artist Manager Association, and a network of regional and international industry professionals.
This opportunity is open to aspiring or early-career artist managers with up to three years of experience and a passion for music. Applicants are expected to have some knowledge of the music or entertainment industry, and preferably hold a bachelor’s degree in Music Business or a related field.
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For media inquiries about the MDLBEAST Foundation and the AMB program, please contact mdlbeast@themediananny.nl