Inside the Playbook: Nick Ruffalo on The Real Secret to Engaging Music Content
In 2025, music marketing isn’t optional. It’s the engine behind every artist breakout.In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Nick Ruffalo to break down what branding, content, and strategy really look like in today’s landscape. They unpack how artist brands are built not just through visuals, but through voice, clarity, and emotional connection, and why artists need to understand their content funnel if they want to grow a real audience.From discovery to conversion, from new formats to timeless strategy, this is a masterclass in how to stay relevant, consistent, and creatively fulfilled in a saturated digital world.If you're serious about building something that lasts, this one's for you.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/064FyRu3z56AGb77HHmfCT?si=Vi-QAD-9T16OP5-xDDVl6AWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Nick Ruffalo on Why Record Labels Still Matter in 2025
The label question isn’t major vs. indie. It’s alignment vs. confusion.In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Nick Ruffalo to unpack the evolving role of record labels in 2025. They go deep into what a modern label actually offers, what artists should demand, and how smart teams are building digital departments that prioritize branding, content, and true audience engagement.Nick shares hard-won lessons from building strategy inside Big Loud Rock, and why passion, buy-in, and internal clarity matter more than ever. Whether you’re navigating a deal or building your own path, this episode delivers clarity in a complex industry.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/064FyRu3z56AGb77HHmfCT?si=Vi-QAD-9T16OP5-xDDVl6AWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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Inside the Playbook: Nick Ruffalo on The Real Reason Fans Aren't Connecting With Your Music
What separates artists who get skipped from those who build legacy?In this clip of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Nick Ruffalo, SVP of Digital at Big Loud Rock and founder of Unleashed, to unpack what it really takes to build an artist brand that connects.They dive into why great music isn’t enough anymore, how the 80/20 rule still shapes careers, and why understanding your archetype might be the unlock your brand has been missing. From the creator to the rebel to the best friend, Nick explains how artists can build clarity, audience, and authenticity in a noisy landscape.This isn’t about surface-level content tips. It’s about the mindset, strategy, and discipline behind modern artist development. If you’re serious about building something that lasts, this episode is for you.A conversation like this doesn't come cheap.Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/064FyRu3z56AGb77HHmfCT?si=Vi-QAD-9T16OP5-xDDVl6AWatch the Episodes On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@managersplaybook
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The Manager’s Playbook 032: Nick Ruffalo - Artist Archetypes, Brand Strategy, Content Funnels, Paid Marketing, Breakthrough Moments & Building in Public
In this episode of The Manager’s Playbook, Mauricio Ruiz sits down with Nick Ruffalo, SVP of Digital Marketing & Audience Engagement at Big Loud Records and founder of Unleashed, for a sharp, unfiltered conversation on what it really takes to build an artist brand in 2025.Nick breaks down the difference between branding and content (hint: most artists confuse the two), how to build trust before traction, and why clarity, not aesthetics, is the foundation of a scalable music career. They dive into the power of archetypes, content funnels, the role of paid media, and how to navigate the leap from developing artist to breakthrough moment with intention.If you’re an artist, manager, or creative operator looking to build something real, without chasing trends, this one’s required listening.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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Inside the Playbook: Tuma Basa on How YouTube Replaced MTV for Artists
YouTube isn’t just for views. It’s for building worlds.In this episode, we unpack why YouTube remains one of the most powerful tools in an artist’s strategy, especially in an era where the music business has shifted from gatekeeping to global access.Tuma Basa breaks down how to actually use the platform: consistency, storytelling, thumbnails, appointment drops, and understanding the full power of its grid.We also get into the deeper layer; why content is now infrastructure, how to lead with value, and why people like Wallo267 are reshaping the game by giving back what they’ve learned.Simply put, a conversation like this doesn't come cheap. Listen to the full episode here -Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/3CldAKsiPTxk5uEXGqWzpr?si=M3R2bqM6TyWKVVcgmoDqnwWatch 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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