Becoming Successful in the Music IndustrySam Feldman, CEO of a top talent representation firm in Canada, talks about what it takes to be successful in the music industry. As a manager, one must understand art and people. Hard work is also required. In terms of artist success, hard work and understanding your craft are also necessary. Feldman also stresses being original in some way. Also in this segment, he points out that hoping for critical acclaim is a real mistake. Artists should simply do what feels right.