A&R stands for "Artists and Repertoire," a division within a music label responsible for discovering and nurturing new talent. A&R representatives scout for promising artists, evaluate their music, and help develop their sound and image. They play a crucial role in guiding musicians through the recording process and ensuring that their work aligns with market trends. In addition to talent scouting, A&R teams also manage relationships with producers, songwriters, and other industry professionals. They help artists select songs for albums and collaborate on creative decisions, ultimately aiming to produce commercially successful music that resonates with audiences.