As an independent career artist, you pour your heart into your performances, and getting compensated fairly isn’t just a luxury— it is a feeling of extreme disrespect when a venue doesn't pay you, pays you with a bad check, or denies they have an obligation to pay you.
In the course of your career, there will be shows which will be volunteer shows for charities, friends, community fundraisers and more, so on these shows you most likely won't be paid, but will use the opportunity to build your resume, expand your network, and add new references. Make sure that your performance is posted on their main social media page, as they are busy and can forget. On unpaid shows always ask if you can bring a tip jar or poster with your VENMO QR code to the show, as most venues and charity organizations are fine with you collecting tips and donations.
For independent career artists, booking paid gigs is an exciting step in growing your career, but ensuring you actually get paid is just as important as landing the show. Also, make sure you are aware of the going rates in your region. You need to factor in the show practice, commute time, the set-up time, parking fees, and performance time into your overall fee. For solo three hour shows, the rates in the New England market are typically $100-$500, and for bands performing at local venues, the rates are $500-$1,000+.
Too often, musicians run into issues where payment is delayed, reduced, or even denied altogether. We hear from musicians frequently about payment challenges, and advise them to maintain their professionalism, and send messages, texts and emails to the venue management to address any issues. Simply ask why you haven't been paid. and let them know that you fulfilled your contract and performance obligation.
In our 20+ years in this industry, we have experienced our share of challenges with venues not following through with payments, not reimbursing bank fees incurred from receiving bad checks, changing contracts after the fact, canceling tours (including a summer tour), and so much more. To avoid these situations, here are some key steps to protect yourself to make sure you get compensated fairly for your performances. Also, if there is a booking that follows your show, make sure you provide sufficient time for breakdown so they can start on time. If you cause delay issues in the venue's schedule, your payment could be reduced, and if you require their sound tech for a longer time they could charge you for their time, so make sure these conditions and other conditions are covered in your agreement. Reach out to us for a sample payment contract.
Always keep a folder with all correspondence with the venue on cases when you are not paid, including emails, text messages, and important details from calling activities.
Ask the important questions:
Who is the venue’s contact person for managing payments?
Is there a cancellation policy, and will artists receive payment if the venue cancels a show?
Is there a ticket confirmation or attendance requirement?
If a show is canceled, will a new date be scheduled?
How much time is allotted for setup and breakdown?
If the show is shortened by management, will I receive my full compensation?
Is there a setlist requirement for the songs performed?
Is there an alternate point of contact if the main contact is unavailable?
Am I permitted to collect tips?
Will I be provided with the sound technician’s contact information?
How many breaks should I include in my performance?
What backline if provided by the venue (stands for mics and music, mics, keyboard bench, stage chairs, amps, drum kit, and sound)?
Start by protecting yourself first! Venues may have an interest in your contacts, and you should never provide them unless you initially agreed to do so. Always protect your network. Make sure that any unexpected costs incurred due to returned checks and payment issues be reimbursed.
1. Have a Written Agreement
Handshake deals and verbal promises don’t hold up when disputes arise. Always insist on a contract or written agreement outlining: Performance details (date, time, venue, set length, break time, gig contact, genre preferences or performance requirements,
payment amount and payment method (cash, check, direct deposit, etc.).
Deposit requirements
Cancellation policy (both your's and the venue’s)
Additional perks (meals, parking, travel expenses, lodging)
If a venue requires performances to align with a specific genre, it's crucial to adhere to those guidelines—venue staff actively monitor compliance and may report violations. Throughout Boston, clubs dedicated to jazz, hip-hop, country, and other genres prioritize maintaining a consistent brand identity. We've witnessed bands and artists having their sets cut short for straying from the venue’s genre requirements. Additionally, failing to follow noise restrictions has led to some performers being asked to leave before their shows even get underway. Even a simple email confirmation summarizing these details can serve as documentation on your event.
2. Request a Deposit
A deposit (typically 25-50% of the total fee) helps ensure the venue is serious about the booking and provides you with some financial security. If the event gets canceled or the venue backs out, you still walk away with something for reserving the date. Find out if they have a rescheduling policy and if so how long it will be to get rebooked.
3. Know the Venue’s Payment Policy
Some venues pay on the spot, while others might have a 30-day processing period. Clarify payment terms before the gig to avoid surprises. If you’re working with a promoter or event planner, confirm who is responsible for paying you and when. Aso make sure you receive their contact number as they can be difficult to reach.
4. Invoice Promptly
Send an invoice immediately after the gig (or before, if that’s part of the agreement). Clearly outline your fee, the event details, and the due date for payment. Using online invoicing tools like PayPal, Wave, or QuickBooks can help streamline the process.
5. Follow Up on Late Payments
If payment is delayed, follow up with a polite but firm reminder. If the venue continues to delay, escalate by making a direct call or visiting in person. Keep records of all communication (including text messages) regarding payment.
6. Perform Only When Payment is Guaranteed
If you feel uneasy about a booking or have had past issues with a venue, request full payment before your performance. Some artists have a “no pay, no play” policy, which can be a smart approach in risky situations.
7. Network and Share Experiences
Talk to other musicians about their experiences with different venues and promoters. There are online communities and social media groups where artists share red flags and recommend reliable venues.
8. Consider a Booking Agent or Manager
If handling payments and contracts feels overwhelming, having a booking agent or manager can help. They will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get paid properly and on time.
Venues can be open about you managing ticket sales as your source of income, if they have the space available. You can visit the venue ahead of time and see the layout for which tables could be set up as VIP seating. You could have 6 tables with four at a table, and charge $15/$20 for each ticket. You would manage the sales on a ticket platform like Eventbrite, and would put the ticket holders names on the tables well before the show begins.
When speaking to the booking contact express your appreciation for the opportunity. All too often artists request the payment information, before they hear the details on the performance and ask seconds into the call, "Is this a paid gig?" It is recognized, artists won't want to further the discussion if the gig is unpaid, but showing your appreciation early on helps build your reputation, and leave a favorable impression.
Always do your own research before pursuing discussions with venues, and this includes referencing industry chat groups on venues reputations. See how active their booking schedule is as that will help determine their commitment to live shows.
Each show requires preparation time, commuting, set up and breakdown and ongoing communications. An estimated time commitment for a three hour show could be 12 hours all in when you include show practice and preparation, your commute, and set up and breakdown, which at a pay of $200 is $16.67 per hour. Your priority should be to arrive at an hourly rate you feel is acceptable given your hours commitment to the show.
Your time, talent, and effort deserve fair compensation. By setting clear terms, maintaining professionalism, and advocating for yourself, you can minimize payment issues and focus on what you do best—performing. Don't be taken advantage of. Your time, sharing of your talent, and commitment to your artist career all influence your deserved compensation. Protect your craft...respect your worth!