Frequently asked Live Entertainment Questions

Q: Why can't I get good live music in my venue on a consistent basis?
A: There are many answers to this question. You should be building your local and regional talent at all times to increase their draw. For nationals you need to look at budgets, radio play in the area, previous shows by touring artists in your area and the routing of the tour at any given time. You should also stay current to the emerging talent through industry trade magazines such as Pollstar.

Q: What is a rider?
A: A rider is a list of specific requirements that the band needs to come play the date at your venue. A technical rider (along with stage plot) would relay their production needs such as PA, stage size, lighting etc… A hospitality rider covers everything else - meals, drinks, dressing rooms, hotels, parking requirements, etc.

Q: What are the main issues (red flags) to look for in a band rider?
A: For technical riders, you must make sure that the band is not asking for either something you cannot provide or something that just will not work in your venue. For hospitality there is more to consider. Will the cost be covered by the potential gross? Are any of the requests out of line with your atmosphere. The main red flag would be if the agent or manager does not provide it right away. Never put in an offer without seeing the riders beforehand!

Q: Should I offer hotel rooms?
A: Most national acts will request it, most regional and local acts may mention it but won't expect it. You should find a hotel close to the club where you can cut a deal for rooms in case they are a requirement. Most hotels will do it for you and give you a reduced rate for quantity stays or some perks at the club.

Q: Do I need to provide meals?
A: Again, most nationals will require it, most regionals and locals will ask but not expect it. There is always the option of a meal buy per person if that is easier. If you have food on premises, I would suggest you give all acts something to eat. Limit them to certain items that are less expensive (sandwiches) or get them some pizzas if there is no food in house. This little bit of effort that may cost you $20 will go along way in terms of good will. However, meals for your smaller acts are not required, just a good way to show the act you want to do what you can for them.

Q: A recent band wanted to see my door receipts. Do I have to show them?
A: If you have paid the band a flat rate the answer is no. If the band is compensated on a % of the door gross than you do need to back up your numbers. Most venues will have a computerized ticket system for larger acts and a hand clicker for smaller ones. You should always have an accurate head count and a way to back it up.

Q: The band wants to put all their friends on the guest list. How should I handle this?
A: They should be able to get their most important guests in on a list. The usual rule is two guests per band member for the headliner and one per member for the opening act. You can bend a little here, just don't break!

Q: My house soundman (or rental company) is a problem, what should I do?
A: Always begin with dialogue. Talk to the head man first and work your way through to see if you can route out the problem and solve it yourself. They may just be having a bad day or have something technical that is out of their control. If this does not work, change people or companies. There are loads of quality techs out there always looking for work.

Q: How can I increase my capacity to attract larger acts?
A: It is true that most larger acts look for rooms where they can do the most people possible. First move is to check your state fire codes and regulations on occupancy. Then try removing tables, chairs, pool tables etc… from the venue and see how that works. Outside patios often help also. Check with neighbor businesses and your landlord to see if there is a way to get more space by going through a wall..

Q: What about free shows to attract people to bands they may not know?
A: A real catch 22 here. On the one hand, it is a great way to gain exposure for a lesser-known act that you think can really grow. However, most people think that the higher the ticket price the bigger the band. Therefore a free show indicates a low quality band. One option is to print hard tickets and then give them away on campuses and at record stores and other hip places around town. This still makes it a free show, however it changes the perception a little in the fans eyes.

Q: I need further assistance with live entertainment, can I contact you?
A: We do provide help for venues with live entertainment issues. You can e-mail us at splitnickel@nightclub-business.com