Robert Smith and Jordan Rakei honoured at 2026 Artist & Manager Awards
The world of music is increasingly defined not just by melody and rhythm, but by the powerful relationships that underpin it—the dynamic bond between artists and the managers who guide their careers. This vital connection is being celebrated at the 2026 Artist & Manager Awards, an event organized by the Featured Artists Coalition and the Music Managers Forum, which shines a light on those who use their platforms for genuine change.
Set to take place at London’s Bloomsbury Big Top on November 18, the ceremony honors individuals who have championed fairness, fostered collaboration, and driven positive change across the music industry. Among the celebrated figures are Robert Smith of The Cure and Jordan Rakei, both recognized for their powerful advocacy and candor.
Robert Smith is set to receive the coveted Fan Champion Award. His recognition stems from his steadfast role in fighting against unfair ticketing practices. In 2023, Smith made headlines by expressing his dismay over ticket fees, noting that they often exceeded the face value of the tickets. He took a bold stand, successfully pushing for small reimbursements to verified ticket buyers, effectively challenging the often opaque and exploitative nature of secondary resale markets and dynamic pricing systems that many feel are driven by greed.
Smith’s commitment extends beyond specific events. He has used his voice to challenge systemic issues, advocating for policies that protect fans and ensure fair compensation for artists. This proactive stance demonstrates how personal experience can translate into tangible, industry-changing action.
Equally celebrated is Jordan Rakei, who will be honored with The Artists’ Voice Award. Rakei is recognized for his openness about the often challenging realities of building a career in music. He has shared candidly about the financial pressures, the complexities of label relationships, and the demands of sustaining a creative life, using his platform to empower emerging artists facing similar struggles.
The organizers of the awards highlighted the significance of this type of work. David Martin, CEO of the Featured Artists Coalition, noted that these awards recognize artists who have generously used their platforms for a greater good. He praised Smith’s approach, calling his “plainspeaking” a welcome antidote to the controversies surrounding live music ticketing, noting how he successfully changed business practices.
He further lauded Rakei’s contribution, emphasizing that his candour and honesty—shared through social channels and masterclasses—have been genuinely empowering, fostering a collaborative environment for music-making.
The recognition extends to the industry’s innovative side as well. The world’s first employee-owned music management business, The Quietus, is also being celebrated with the 2026 Entrepreneur Award. This company manages a vast roster of talent and operations, demonstrating a successful model for sustainable business in the music sector.
Meanwhile, The Cure is currently embarking on a major tour across the UK and Europe, with performances scheduled in major cities like Manchester and Edinburgh. During this run, the band has seen some notable moments, including Simon Gallup’s son Eden stepping in for the longtime bassist, and spectacular performances at festivals such as Open’er in Poland and the Isle of Wight Festival.
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