Mentorship in the Creative Industry: Investing in the Next Generation of Talent
The creative industry thrives on innovation, talent, and fresh perspectives, yet success rarely happens in isolation. Mentorship is one of the most powerful tools for nurturing emerging artists, creatives, and industry professionals. As a Managing Partner overseeing talent management and live experiences, I’ve seen how structured mentorship programs can accelerate growth, instill business acumen, and cultivate the next generation of leaders in music, entertainment, and brand partnerships.
Guiding Artistic and Professional Development
Mentorship in the creative industry goes beyond teaching craft. It encompasses career strategy, business knowledge, and personal development. Emerging talent needs guidance on contracts, royalties, branding, and sponsorship opportunities, but also on navigating digital platforms, audience engagement, and live performance strategies. A strong mentor helps artists translate creativity into sustainable career growth without compromising their artistic vision.
Backing Mentorship with Industry Scale
The importance of mentorship becomes clear when looking at the industry landscape. In 2024, Live Nation Entertainment reported $23.16 billion in revenue, with roughly 151 million fans attending over 50,000 events globally. This scale illustrates the massive opportunity available—but only artists equipped with knowledge of contracts, touring logistics, and brand partnerships will thrive.
Similarly, Universal Music Group grew revenue to €11.83 billion in 2024, emphasizing global expansion and the need for artists to succeed in local and international markets. UMG’s focus on developing artists who can grow their fanbase worldwide underscores why mentorship must include both creative and commercial strategy.
Building Resilience and Adaptability
The entertainment landscape is dynamic, with trends, technologies, and audience behaviors constantly evolving. Mentorship fosters resilience and adaptability, helping emerging talent anticipate challenges, pivot effectively, and make informed decisions in high-pressure environments. By providing real-world insights and scenario-based guidance, mentors equip creatives with tools to navigate both opportunity and adversity.
Creating Long-Term Impact
Mentorship also has a broader cultural and economic impact. By investing in the next generation of talent, experienced professionals strengthen the industry as a whole — cultivating innovative ideas, inclusive practices, and sustainable business models. Mentorship fosters community, encourages collaboration, and ensures that knowledge and expertise are passed on to future leaders.
Ultimately, mentorship in the creative industry is an investment in talent, culture, and innovation. It empowers emerging artists and professionals to thrive creatively and commercially, building careers that are sustainable, impactful, and aligned with their personal vision. For managers, artists, and industry leaders, mentorship is not just guidance — it’s a legacy.
Cody Lieberman is the Managing Partner of Global Talent Management at M23, working at the intersection of Live Music, Brand Partnerships, and Artist Development. He’s committed to building sustainable, artist-focused careers and experiences where creativity, community, and business success thrive together.