Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Smith
Hi Andrea, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve worn a lot of hats in the industry over the past 20 years. From being a DIY artist myself to co-founding and managing a record label, I’ve seen the music business from all angles. I’ve worked in publicity for live events, written press for local newspapers, coached songwriters at Collective Sound Music Academy, and even taught as a band director and music instructor at School of Rock. On top of that, I ran my own private music coaching practice in Los Angeles, completely built through word-of-mouth.
Rising Artists started as a blog in 2020 during the shift to a more digital world. Almost immediately, the brand gained traction and started growing fast, attracting attention from artists as well as industry execs. Within months, a Universal Music rep invited us to exclusive VIP press conferences for their own artists – something that’s now turned into an ongoing relationship.
With all the connections and networks I’d built, it only made sense to expand into offering music promotion services. I wanted to help artists gain real access to the opportunities they deserve. That’s when I partnered with my favorite industry players, expanded the team, and grew Rising Artists into a full-service music agency.
It’s been an incredible journey watching it all come together.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Oh, definitely not! (Haha.) The music industry isn’t exactly a traditional career path, so I’ve had my fair share of ups and downs – just like most artists and music companies. But honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. The challenges taught me what I needed to know to help others navigate this industry.
One of my biggest challenges was figuring out how to build a sustainable music career that truly fit my ideal lifestyle. When the world – and the music industry – shifted to be more online, everything started to fall into place. I’d always wanted to be an entrepreneur and work on my own terms, and with the freelancer mindset ingrained in every Angeleno, I brought together all my experiences to create this company.
I’d already been signed to an indie label and managed my own, but I saw that artists didn’t need a major label deal to succeed anymore. The industry was evolving, and I found my place in it – as someone deeply experienced who could help other artists build their own success. That’s when I fully embraced being an online entrepreneur in the music space, and I’ve never looked back.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Rising Artists Music Agency?
At Rising Artists Music Agency, we offer fully managed PR & marketing retainers, artist development coaching, and a wide range of à la carte music services – including white-label options for industry professionals.
I’m also certified in business mindset laser coaching, which allows me to help artists and music businesses, whether it’s labels, PR firms, or management teams, identify and implement strategies that truly move the needle.
What sets us apart is that we only partner with the best. Every service we offer is designed to create real audience growth and meaningful career impact for artists. We’re not about empty vanity metrics, we’re about results that actually matter.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Family beach days were always something special. I remember thinking, “How could anyone not be happy at the beach?” Even now, living close to the ocean, I still feel that way. But back then, it felt like the best thing in the world – just pure happiness.
Pricing:
- Full-Managed PR + Marketing Retainers – Starting at $2,500/mo
- Artist Development Coaching – Starting at $600/mo
- White Label PR Partner Program + À La Carte Music Services – Prices Vary
- Podcast Pitching – $295/mo (Currently discounted!)
- Spotify Promotion + Playlisting – Starting at $475/mo
Contact Info:
- Website: https://risingartistsagency.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/risingartists.promotions
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/risingartists.musicblog
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/andreasmithofficial
- Other: Spotify: open.spotify.com/user/f6pwtsuyomed8x1v4ot7kixxn?si=aa22264698404ddf
Image Credits
Rising Artists Team
In order of appearance:
Ann Lathan Kerzner. Ph.D.: Head of Marketing
Malik Brown: Client Relations
Kristan Reid: Executive Associate
Emily Cushing – Editorial Music Writer
Katrina Yang – Lead Music Journalist
Harrison Long – In-House Producer + Recording Engineer
Rachele Liba – In-House Graphic Designer + Branding Specialist
