So, you’ve just gotten selected for a gig listing. First of, Congratulations! Secondly, you’re probably wondering what to do next when contacting the promoter. Well, here’s a quick guide to navigating promoter/artist relationships in the music industry. As an artist myself (www.sonicbids.com/micahraps), I’ve had to learn how to navigate the slippery slope of promoter/artist relations through trial and error. Eventually I got to a place where I was able to conduct myself in a manner that allowed me to negotiate from a better position than I was in before.
Promoter/Artist relationships are incredibly important to cultivate, because they lead to bigger and better opportunities. At Sonicbids, our job is to connect artists and promoters, to build relationships that will flourish outside of our website, contributing to your success as an artist.
There are a few important steps to take in order to form a good relationship with your soon-to-be (temporary) employer.
- When reaching out for the first time, show the promoter gratitude for selecting you for the opportunity, and ask any pertinent questions that were not covered in the “selected” status message. This will give you an opportunity to hammer down details with them before the show, making sure you have the right equipment, and know the dates and times of your set.
- When negotiating compensation with promoters, it’s important to be flexible, especially when compensation is not disclosed on the gig listing (if there is compensation listed, there is no negotiation). If you’re an artist who wants exposure and is willing to sacrifice a bit, you can be very successful if you hone your negotiation skills. The point of a negotiation is that both parties come to a satisfactory compromise. Chances are, you’re not going to get everything you want, but keep in mind, the promoter is not going to get everything they want, either. The important thing to remember is to remain calm and level headed. It’s easy to get upset when you think you’re not getting anywhere with the promoter, but by getting upset in a negative way, you’ll be burning bridges.
- Once in negotiations, make sure you take care of your needs while being flexible. Ask for a travel stipend if you’re going to be traveling far for this show, or send a rider of the things you require in your green room before the performance, especially if you have special dietary needs. You may not get all of what you ask for, but it never hurts to ask!
- In addition to # 3, do not be a diva. The last thing promoters want is a musician who walks in like they own the place. If it’s your first time performing at a venue, you should make a good first impression. Since first impressions are the ones most likely to stick, make sure you’re attentive, on time, and polite with the staff. They are there helping you, so your gratitude will go a long way. Positive energy makes for showstopping performances!
- If you have exhausted all your resources, and cannot reach a compromise with the promoter, then you might have to cut your losses and move on. Shows are going to come and go, and if you’re actively gigging, you shouldn’t have a problem finding other venues to play at. Sometimes, gigs do not work out in our favor, and it’s important to not get discouraged if this is the case. Something’s just weren’t meant to be.
So to sum it all up, when negotiating with promoters, keep it calm and business casual. Make sure your important needs are being met, but be willing to compromise. Remain positive, and as always, rock the house!
If you have any more tips to add to this list, feel free to leave a comment. This is a community space, and it’s important to hear how other artists have interacted with promoters as well.
