An Excellent A&R : Work Methods & Characteristics

The purpose of this thesis was to collect information on A&R work by interviewing five A&R’s from Finland and the United States. An A&R, short for ”artists and repertoire”, is a person responsible for scouting talent and guiding artists in a record company. Their role in the music industry is very significant, yet there is very little general knowledge about their line of work. It has maintained the mystique of the music business. Your own taste in music has also most likely been shaped by the tastes of legendary A&R’s. But why do we need them? The music industry has gone through considerable changes and recording and publishing music has become more accessible for everyone. Online data is also easily available, if one wants to find out what is currently trending. All of the interviewees believed that there is a strong psychological side to A&R-work, which is equally as important as the musical side. On top of musical guidance, artists need mentors that understands their highs and lows and can guide them through different parts of their careers. There is no specific way of becoming an A&R, and it is not one of those careers people aim for or dream of since childhood. All of the A&R’s interviewed shared similar goals, but had different methods for reaching them. What all of the A&R’s shared was a curious mind and a genuine interest in people, music and what is currently happening in the world. This study aimed to find and highlight the key elements to being an excellent A&R