Four veteran artist managers from the heavy music space have joined forces to launch Upper Hand Management, a new firm that pools expertise across touring, merchandising, ticketing, and festivals.
The company is founded by Josh Pulgarin and Scott Lee, previously of SL Management, alongside Jackie Andersen and Ryan “Dog” Nelson, who both held roles at Good Fight Management. Good Fight Management will continue to operate following their departure.
Upper Hand Management aims to deliver what it describes as “more creative and extensive support” to its artists by drawing on the founders’ combined experience. Lee co-founded merchandise supplier Armada and the VIP ticketing platform Sound Rink. Andersen leads SharpTone Records, a label focused on metalcore and hardcore. Nelson owns Merch Connection, a merchandising and ticketing company serving the alternative and hardcore scene.
At SL Management, Lee and Pulgarin helped develop the careers of acts including Currents, Kublai Khan TX, and Bodysnatcher. Andersen and Nelson built their roster within Good Fight Management.
The new company launches with a roster that spans multiple heavy subgenres:
- 156/Silence
- Alpha Wolf
- blessthefall
- Bodysnatcher
- Currents
- Emmure
- Heavensgate
- Job For A Cowboy
- Kublai Khan TX
- Shadows Fall
- Stick To Your Guns
- The Acacia Strain
and additional acts.
“Managers who aren’t in the same company hold their cards close. When you’re in business with the person, it’s easier to share openly. The biggest value of us talking all the time and exchanging expertise is the opportunities this will bring to all the bands on our roster,” said Ryan “Dog” Nelson.
