WKU News

Being behind the scenes is the perfect place for senior management major Walker Newberry. The self-described shy kid with a passion for the country music industry serves as an Artist Manager Intern for Make Wake Artists, a boutique management service located in Nashville. As an intern, Newberry utilizes the project management and data analytics skills learned in the Gordon Ford College of Business to serve the handful of country music artists under Make Wake’s care.

He spent the summer living and working in Nashville, describing it as “a great experience.” He rented a long-term Airbnb so he wouldn’t have to commute from his Glasgow, Ky., home, which allowed him to experience what living and working in the home of country music is like. Fortunately for Newberry, the company asked him to continue his internship during the fall semester as he finishes his final year of school. He commutes once a week to Nashville, handling whatever projects come his way that week.

“The music industry is so relaxed,” he said. “The hours may not be the same every day but as long as you get your projects completed, everything is good.”

The projects Newberry spends most of his time with are schedules and protocols for artists preparing to perform at a venue, ensuring the artist knows exactly where to go and when to be there. He ensures the venue will provide exactly what the artist needs as he or she performs. Additionally, Newberry observes the artists’ social media platforms on a daily basis, providing information and advice on successful posts.

“It’s never the same from day to day,” he said adding that one day he might be traveling to an out-of-state venue preparing for a show while another day has him in a downtown bar setting up for a fan club meet-n-greet. But that’s what he enjoys about his internship and – hopefully – his future career.

“I’ve been able to see all that goes into being a day-to-day manager,” Newberry said. “I want to be a full Artist Manager so I can help someone be successful.”

Photo Caption: Student Walker Newberry with Country Music Artist Luke Combs