What does A&R mean in

A&R stands for "Artist and Repertoire". It is an executive role in the music industry that is responsible for talent scouting, artist development, and sometimes overseeing production and marketing.

An A&R executive typically works in a record label or publishing company with the goal of helping to sign promising new artists and develop their projects.

An A&R executive's duties include scouting new musical talent by attending shows, listening to demos from aspiring artists, setting up meetings and interviews with potential signing artists, developing those artists' projects, negotiating contracts with them, overseeing the production process, collaborating with other departments such as marketing or public relations for releases, etc.

Becoming an A&R typically requires some experience in the music industry such as working at a recording studio or label or being a musician or producer yourself. Having good connections in the industry can also help when it comes to landing an A&R job. Additionally having knowledge of music trends, understanding of contract negotiations and legal documents are important skills as well.

Being successful as an A&R involves having creativity when discovering new music while also having strong organizational skills when it comes to developing projects. Furthermore good communication skills when dealing with both existing signed acts along with new prospects is key. Finally a passion for what you do can help carry you through tough times along with knowing how to be persuasive so you can get things done within your organization's structure.