Help needed from someone in the know!!!

G1986

One of my mates is an acoustic/r n b/ soul artist & I have always helped him out with small things like getting gigs & entering competitions, travel arrangements & help with finances etc.

Recently he has become a bit more popular & we are getting his name (& his music) heard across our town. I was wondering since things ae getting a lot more serious, does anyone know the legal system when it comes to managers/agents for unsigned artists. Is there a patent system in place or what? I'm thinking about officially becoming his manager & I'd be prepared to invest my own money.I know he would like the idea but I need to cover myself legally first so I dont end up losing money rather than making it!

Could anyone give me some pointers or at least point me in the right direction? Sorry if I posted in the wrong place I'm new here....