Reading Venue and Performance Contracts

The Deal Memo vs Contract

A deal memo is informal — email, text, or a short agreement confirming the gig: date, time, pay, and lineup. Simple and fast.

A contract is formal — legal language protecting both sides with detailed terms. Venues and promoters might upgrade to a contract for larger shows or festivals.

Either way, get something in writing before you perform. Handshakes don't hold up if there's a dispute.

Payment Terms

This is the core question: how much and when do you get paid?

• Flat fee — fixed amount regardless of attendance (safest for you)
• Door split — you earn a percentage of ticket sales or cover charge (risky if attendance is low)
• Guarantee plus split — minimum payment plus a cut of revenue above a threshold (common at mid-level venues)
• Ticket presales — you sell a set number of tickets upfront; venue keeps door

Read the fine print: does the pay include sound, lights, and setup, or do you cover those? Is there a sound technician, or are you running your own?

Cancellation Clauses

What happens if the show gets cancelled?

• By the venue — you should get paid in full or a percentage (ask for 50–100% depending on notice)
• By you — you forfeit payment or pay a cancellation fee
• By weather or force majeure — usually neither party pays
• Notice period — how many days must each side give to cancel without penalty?

Outdoor shows often include a rain-out clause. Check it.

Recording and Broadcast Rights

The contract might say the venue can record your set and post it to their social media or livestream it. Ask yourself:

• Do you care if the show is recorded? (Many artists say no for unofficial recordings, but want to approve broadcast)
• Are you paid extra for broadcast? (You should be, even $50–100)
• Can they monetize the video? (Ads on YouTube — you should get a cut)

Negotiating this protects your ability to control your own recordings and get paid if your performance goes viral on their channel.