29/10/2024
When you step out the door on your way to perform, do you:
Have a copy of the contract with you?
Have you really read the contract over?
If you got a deposit, do you know how much that was? Do you know how much balance you're supposed to collect if you are actually collecting it that day?
Have you spoken to anyone at the venue, or the technical advance contact given to you on the contract at least a week before, two weeks before, even days before, just to go over fine details and show excitement and thank them about the opportunity that you have been given to play there?
If you are bringing your own sound system, do you have any idea how many people are going to be there so you know you have enough equipment and power, are you sure there is enough time for you to set up everything, and can be done before doors open?
Have you made sure there is enough power for all of your gear and PA system if this is an outdoor show?
Do you know what happens if this is an outdoor show, if it is raining there, or on the way, do you get paid regardless? Maybe 50%? Do you read the cancellation terms in your contract? The weather clause?
Did you look at the food and beverage rider in the contract, because sometimes you might be getting a $15 per man food buyout but if you didn't read it you would get there and be angry because there's no food backstage or drinks, and wonder why you are getting handed money, oh yeah, you forgot you agreed to that four months earlier!
Did you find out where your hotel rooms are and what name they are under and a confirmation number?
The reason I write this –
Unfortunately I have experienced phone calls and text messages at 11 o'clock at night demanding money from a band member who didn't read the contract, otherwise they would know they were getting a PayPal from me the week after show.
I have had angry band members chasing down management at venues demanding their check all the while not realizing the check was in the mail per the contract.
I have had calls three hours before the show, asking what happens if it rains, obviously not reading the weather clause in their contract.
I have had text messages from band an hour before load in asking where the hotel rooms are.
The simple answer to all this is read your contract, make sure you contact the advance contact on the contract for the show. Do not walk into that show with any questions that are not answered.
Being professional off stage is just as important as being professional on!
Richard Rubin
President
Maximum Bands Entertainment