When you’re managing an artist who seems to smash a record a day, two heads are better than one. So Luke Combs is lucky to have Make Wake’s Chris Kappy and River House Management’s Lynn Oliver-Cline in his court. Complementary skill sets and experience make them a dynamic duo indeed.

Dallas native Kappy’s Georgia Bulldoggery led him to Athens’ famed 40 Watt Club on May 23, 2015, where he met Combs. Two months later, the Six Man veteran was managing the singer/songwriter, who tapped directly into the Southern good ole boy/girl reality. Massive believers in “strategic touring” and “fan-focused first” handling of decisions, they’re obviously doing something right.

Beyond Combs, Make Wake also handles Niko Moon, Hailey Whitters, Drew Parker and Jobe Fortner.

What do you see as the obvious advantages of the new world order?

I love the way the artist and fan can have direct interactions with one another. Through messaging, comments and likes on posts, the artist can see in real time what the fan is most passionate about. On the other side, the fan can be directly engaged in artist decisions. And give honest feedback that the artist and their team can use. You have a focus group in the palm of your hand with your phone every day.

Best advice?

Let the artist be the artist. Don’t try and change them. This is their vision, their art and their dream. It’s my job to help make their world turn.