Of course, pay for bands is directly related to the popularity of the band , the draw for that night, liquor/food sales and so forth. As you know, I ran Planet Agency back in the 90s and before that organization blew up thanks to a roster of ‘rock star’ acts that took the agency international. But before that, the agency reportedly helped to impact the most in-demand bands’ (at the time, cover bands) receivables. Cover bands, for example Nigel and the Metal Dogs usually offer popular, fun shows and if you want to formulate something like that, we all know that it is good business because you are giving people something familiar.

For the original music, there’s nothing like planning ahead and hitting the road. But to expect to actually be paid much more than gas, lodging and meals – and on a good night some extra money is unreasonable. So plan on loosing money…on investing in your music until you have performed in a market (hopefully the same venue) 3-4 times on a regular tour rotation something like every 90-120 days.

If your numbers do go up after 12-18 months, that should tell you something. Music business is about branding, repetition and persistence. Bands that commit to this kind of lifestyle are more likely to succeed. It also helps to prepare healthy meals in advance and make friends in each town and couch surf (or whatever) to save on hotels and pocket that money. All of this should be booked in advance by your agent or manager (or band designee). Also fax/email contracts.

I wouldn’t start the van without some of these elements in place.

There’s tons more that I’ll be happy to share but I am short on time at the moment.

Steve Auerbach
musicgarage.org