Follow the Money
The is artist-business revenue, not automatic take-home pay. Agent commission, payroll, travel, lodging, production, tax, and other costs can still sit behind it.
Ownership / Control
The contract should make payment timing, performance obligations, cancellation, production, hospitality, merch, and expectations clear.
In the Real World
$1,500 means the artist business is owed $1,500 for the contracted performance, subject to the actual written terms.
Ask Before You Agree
- • When and how is the guarantee paid?
- • Are any expenses being deducted from the guarantee?
- • What happens if the show is canceled?
- • Are travel, lodging, backline, or hospitality separate from the fee?
Worth a Second Look
- • Undefined deductions
- • Payment tied to ticket sales even though the offer is described as guaranteed
- • Important production or travel obligations left verbal