Did we get played?

[VB_GEX]

I have a problem...Together with a partner...I have started booking live bands at local bars...One of the bars started having us book ALL of there fri and sat nights...And we have been riddled with problems beyond our
control...
The first problem we had...The headlining band was supposed to bring the PA...theydidn't show till 1 1/2 late after one of the opening bands went and got their own
The next night...The opening band had told the headliner that they would bring theirs so not to worry about it...well...they got there on time...but according to them...we had told them that it was an 18+ show...NO---We made sure to tell everyone it was 21+ and it's even all over the flyers! so because a few of the people 'fans' couldn't get in...they left...with the PA
Then...the last straw for the owner...the next weekend...another opener pulled the same thing with the age limit...but the other two bands had their own PA and played with no problem....
Now...the owner has decided to drop us and cancell the rest of the shows we booked and has gone to the bands we've booked (some of which we've already started to promote) and tell them that she still wants them to play...
Did we get played?
What can I do to keep this from happening again?
Is there some kind of contract I can use to penialize a band for just deciding NOT to play?
Any help/suggestions are, as always, most appreciated....

[The Event Guy]

Why are you working without any contracts in place? If you're working as a booking agency, then you ABSOLUTELY must have contracts in place with the venue(s) and the bands you represent.

Invest in an entertainment lawyer if you must, but by all means draw up SOME KIND of contracts or else there's no point in being in business.

Reputation is EVERYTHING as a booking agent.

[soundguy_99]

Hey VB_GEX,
I agree with The Event Guy, In the entertaiment Business Contacts are your bible, and will help avoid alot of problems. If anything is then disbuted, you can referr back to the contact for clarification, and can possibly take the approriate actions, if the band is in beach of that contract. I would consult with each of the bar onwers, to get an idea of what they expect out of the bands you bring in, and then consult with a lawyer to help at least draw up a blue print, of a contact that will suit your needs, as well as the indivual bar owners.
As for the sound system, and production part of it, don`t rely on bands to bring their own sound/lightsystems. It may be ok, if your only having one band for that paticular gig, but when your doing multiple bands on the same night, its best to hire a local production company, or at least a 3rd party who can provide a sound system. This way their no disbute of who's gear their going to use, or over the quality of gear or any those type of issues. Also that 3rd party works for you, and not the bands, which should give you better, relyability, and service, so even if a band cancels at the last minute, or complains about something, the show can still go on. Just again make sure you handle the production provider the same way you handle the bands by drawing up a contact, again covering you back, adding peace of mind to the owner of the club.
Hope This helps
soundguy_99

[OverSeeR]

If your still booking bands in Virgina Beach let me know. I have a couple slots open this month and next month.

[VB_GEX]

yes...i am still booking bands in va beach :cool: