So, you’re about to book a show. Rad! As you probably know by now, there are a number of different ways that you can get paid for being awesome at what you do. We want to make sure you’re being paid fairly (and we know you do, too) so here is a bit of insight into four of the different forms of payment you can expect to encounter when you’re booking shows. It’s not uncommon for venues or promoters to offer a door split deal when booking a show.
It’s not uncommon for venues or promoters to offer a door split deal when booking a show. Basically, what this means is that you’ll be splitting the proceeds from ticket sales with the venue/promoter. After the tickets are sold and the venue rental and promotional costs are recouped, the rest is set aside to be split. Generally, the promoter will give a bigger percentage of the money to the band/performer. It is most common to agree upon an 80/20% or 70/30% split (with the performer taking the highest cut). However, depending on the gig at hand, it can be perfectly reasonable and fair to split it 50/50.
Tip: Before agreeing to a door split gig, try to get an idea of the expected turnout and the ticket cost. Give the venue a visit or look it up online to see how popular it seems. Do they advertise their own events or is it your responsibility to bring a crowd? (Either way, bring a crowd! Each and every person who comes will put money in your pocket.) Once you know what to expect, you’ll have a better idea of how much money you are likely to make. It’s important to note that if the show doesn’t draw in enough of a crowd to break even, you won’t be getting paid.
Guaranteed Set Amount
Most of your gigs probably look something like this: The event planner finds you, loves you (of course!), and contacts you about the gig. You quote them a price, they agree, and you do your thing! The advantage of having a guaranteed set amount you’ll be getting paid is that you don’t have to worry about unforeseen circumstances. If the show doesn’t draw in a crowd, guess what? You still get paid!
Tip: Know your venue and audience, as well as all event details. Put a lot of thought into your price quote before you commit to anything. You don’t want to show up to play at a wedding, thinking it will be a 40 minute set, and find out that you’re expected to play for 4 hours! Make sure that all of the details are covered in the contract so that there is no confusion for either party (you or the event planner) and that you’re protected financially against cancellation.
Generally speaking, we don’t recommend paying to play.
Pay-to-play is exactly what it sounds like.
Venues or promoters may charge a fee for you to play a show at their space. Depending on the time slot and the popularity of the venue, this can get very pricey. You are likely to hear that you’ll be paid inexposure. Now, this is not to say that all claims for being paid in exposure are illegitimate, because sometimes playing for exposure is worth it. (It’s not exactly pay-to-play, but did you know that no one has ever been paid to play in the Super Bowl Halftime Show? Not even Mick Jagger!) If you find yourself an opportunity with a high level of exposure, like the Super Bowl (okay, that might be a stretch) or a large music festival, it could be worth it to pay-to-play. Just be cautious and spend your money wisely!
Tip: Instead of requiring performers to pay-to-play, some venues will decrease their financial risk by offering a pre-sale tickets option. How this typically works is that the performer will be required to sell at least X number of tickets at X cost prior to the event, to ensure that you will not be playing to an empty room, and that the venue will be able to recoup their expenses.
Many times, especially for charity functions, you may be asked to donate your talent to a cause or event. This is totally at your discretion! If you’re feeling charitable, looking to network/gain exposure within certain circles, or are interested in the event at hand, it may be worth your time to play for free. However, do not feel obligated to perform for free. You’re a professional and you should be compensated for your services unless you consent otherwise.
Tip: Most charity events will allow you to place a tip jar out for donations. This is not likely to put a lot of money in your pocket, but something is better than nothing! You may find, in some situations, that the event planner is hesitant to encourage tipping. This is likely because they are trying to raise as much money as possible for the cause at hand, and any money that may be given to you is competing with those funds. Again, it is at your discretion if you’re willing to perform under these circumstances. Only you can say what is right for you, so don’t be afraid to be assertive about your needs as an entertainer.
No matter which form of payment you agree upon, we can’t stress enough how important it is to sign a contract before you perform anywhere.Anywhere. Contracts exist to protect both you and the event planner, and are your safety net if you’re being treated unfairly or have been refused payment.
“Jephte Bastien: Crafting Cinema, Challenging Norms, and Championing Authentic Stories”
Jephte Bastien, a multifaceted director, producer, creator, and editor, has carved a unique path in the film industry. From his humble beginnings in Haiti to his groundbreaking work in cinema, Jephte’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and an unyielding passion for storytelling. In a recent interview, Jephte shared insights into his life, inspirations, and the challenges he has faced as a filmmaker.
Jephte’s love for storytelling began in his childhood. Growing up in Haiti, he would cut out paper silhouettes, align them with thread, and use a flashlight to project characters onto a makeshift screen. This early form of shadow puppetry allowed him to mimic voices and create stories, laying the foundation for his future in filmmaking. Music also played a significant role in his upbringing. As the seventh of nine boys in a large Christian family, Jephte started singing in church at the age of five. His family’s tradition of entertaining one another—through poetry, singing, and dancing—fostered his creative spirit.
Haiti: A Source of Inspiration
Haiti holds a special place in Jephte’s heart. Despite the media’s often negative portrayal of the country, Jephte describes it as a paradise filled with vibrant culture, music, and natural beauty. His early memories of Haiti are filled with joy—playing games, eating mangoes straight from the trees, and forming lifelong friendships. When his family moved to Canada, Jephte struggled with homesickness and depression. Haiti became a recurring theme in his dreams, a place he would revisit mentally to find solace and inspiration. Even as an adult, he traveled back to Haiti frequently, using the trips to rejuvenate his creative energy.
The Church and Early Questions
Growing up in a religious household, Jephte was deeply involved in the church. However, he began to question the narratives he was taught, particularly the lack of representation of Black people in religious imagery. These early questions about identity and representation would later influence his work as a filmmaker. Jephte’s departure from the church was not a rejection of faith but a search for truth and authenticity in storytelling.
A Journey to New York and Beyond
Jephte’s pursuit of his passion led him to New York in the 1990s, where he studied theater despite his parents’ wishes for him to become a lawyer. This decision marked the beginning of his independent journey. He worked tirelessly to pay for his education, immersing himself in the arts and honing his craft. After returning to Montreal, Jephte faced the harsh realities of the film industry. Despite his talent, opportunities were scarce, especially for a Black filmmaker in the 90s. Determined to tell his own stories, Jephte enrolled in film school, where he began to develop his unique voice.
Breaking Barriers in Filmmaking
Jephte’s career is marked by a series of groundbreaking projects. One of his early successes was editing a music video for the song “Due to the Interest” by Garou. Despite the director’s inexperience, Jephte stepped in to manage the set, ensuring the project’s success. The video became a buzz clip, earning praise from industry heavyweights like Luc Plamondon. However, Jephte’s refusal to accept a $2,000 bonus from the director highlighted his commitment to integrity over financial gain.
In 2003, Jephte produced “Haiti Through My Eye,” a docu-series that showcased Haiti’s rich culture and history. The project was a critical success and opened doors for future opportunities, including funding for his feature film “Exit 67.” Despite the challenges of securing funding and navigating the industry’s systemic barriers, Jephte remained steadfast in his mission to tell authentic stories.
The Draft: A Powerful Vision
One of Jephte’s most ambitious projects is “The Draft,” a film about a young Black hockey player whose dreams are shattered by a brutal act of racism. The story follows his journey as he mentors his younger brother, offering a new paradigm for success. Jephte describes “The Draft” as the most powerful film he has ever written, a project that challenges the status quo and highlights the resilience of marginalized communities.
However, the production of “The Draft” was not without its challenges. Jephte faced significant obstacles, including interference from unions and a lack of support from industry institutions, except Telefilm and Harold Greenberg Fund, who supported the project from the beginning. Despite these hurdles, he remained committed to the project, pouring his own resources and energy into bringing his vision to life.
The Struggles of an Independent Filmmaker
Jephte’s experiences shed light on the difficulties faced by independent filmmakers, particularly those from underrepresented communities. In Canada, the film industry is heavily reliant on government funding, which often comes with strict quotas and limitations. Jephte has faced numerous rejections and setbacks, including being blacklisted by medias after an interview. Despite these challenges, he continues to create, driven by his passion for storytelling and his desire to challenge societal norms.
A Legacy of Resilience
Jephte Bastien’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity. From his early days in Haiti to his groundbreaking work in film, he has remained true to his vision, using his art to challenge stereotypes and inspire change. As he continues to work on “The Draft” and other projects, Jephte’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of representation and the enduring power of storytelling.
Jephte Bastien: The Visionary Filmmaker Behind Exit 67 and The Draft
Whether through his portrayal of gritty urban landscapes or his exploration of the human spirit, Jephte Bastien continues to push the boundaries of cinema. As we await the premiere of The Draft, one thing is certain: Bastien’s journey as a filmmaker is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.
Jephte Bastien, the award-winning filmmaker renowned for his gripping storytelling and raw cinematic style, is set to captivate audiences once again with his upcoming film, The Draft. Best known for his debut feature film Exit 67, which garnered critical acclaim and won numerous awards, Bastien has established himself as a powerful voice in the world of cinema.
From Haiti to Canada: A Unique Perspective
Born in Haiti and raised in Canada, Jephte Bastien brings a unique perspective to his work, combining the rich cultural heritage of his homeland with the multicultural influences of his upbringing in Montreal. This blend of experiences has given Bastien a distinctive voice in filmmaking, allowing him to explore complex themes of identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience with authenticity and nuance.
Breaking Ground with Exit 67
Bastien burst onto the scene with his first feature film, Exit 67. Released in 2010, the film tells the story of a young man named Jecko, who is caught between the world of street gangs and his desire for a better life. Drawing from his own experiences and the reality of many young immigrants in Montreal, Bastien crafted a gripping narrative that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. The film’s success earned Bastien a Genie Award, cementing his status as a filmmaker to watch.
The Draft: A New Chapter
With his latest project, The Draft, Bastien is poised to once again capture the imagination of viewers. While details about the plot remain under wraps, the film promises to explore themes of power, corruption, and the human condition—elements that have become hallmarks of Bastien’s work. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and moral dilemmas, The Draft is expected to be another compelling addition to Bastien’s filmography.
A Filmmaker with a Mission
Beyond his artistic achievements, Jephte Bastien is a filmmaker with a mission. He aims to tell stories that reflect the realities of marginalized communities and challenge societal norms. His films often delve into difficult subjects, shedding light on issues such as crime, poverty, and the immigrant experience, all while maintaining a deep sense of humanity and hope.
Looking Ahead
As Jephte Bastien prepares for the release of The Draft, anticipation is building among fans and critics alike. With his track record of compelling storytelling and his commitment to exploring important social issues, Bastien is sure to deliver another thought-provoking film that will leave a lasting impact.
Whether through his portrayal of gritty urban landscapes or his exploration of the human spirit, Jephte Bastien continues to push the boundaries of cinema. As we await the premiere of The Draft, one thing is certain: Bastien’s journey as a filmmaker is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.
“Spark Davidson: The Visionary Behind Montreal’s R&B Revolution”
THIS IS THE TRUE STORY OF SPARK AND HIS HUSTLE THAT NEVER STOPS AND NEVER SLEEPS AS HIS DREAMS BECOME REALITIES AND HAVE ALWAYS BEEN THE BIGGEST HE CAN IMAGINE.
Spark Davidson, a Montreal-based artist, has made significant contributions to the music industry since launching his professional career in 1995. At the age of 28, Spark began managing multiple music groups, including his own R&B ensemble, “Portfolio,” featuring three of Montreal’s most talented vocalists: Alan Prater, Chris Millington, and Danny Blanco. With his keen eye for talent and innovative management style, Spark quickly established Portfolio as a powerhouse in the R&B scene. Within a year, the group achieved remarkable success, consistently selling out performances and captivating audiences with their soulful harmonies and dynamic stage presence.
Spark’s strategic negotiations for Portfolio’s publishing and recording contracts in both Montreal and Los Angeles further solidified his reputation as a savvy music industry professional. His efforts culminated in the launch of his own music production label, “4indamorning,” which rapidly became a household name in Montreal. Under his guidance, “4indamorning” emerged as a pivotal force in the local music scene, known for its distinctive sound and dedication to nurturing emerging talent.
Beyond his work with Portfolio, Spark Davidson’s influence extended throughout Montreal’s music community. His commitment to innovation and excellence helped elevate the city’s R&B and hip-hop genres, setting a high standard for artistic expression and collaboration. Spark’s ability to fuse traditional R&B elements with contemporary influences showcased his versatility and deep understanding of the evolving music landscape.
Spark’s impact on the music industry is a testament to his passion, creativity, and determination. As a manager, producer, and artist, he has left an indelible mark on Montreal’s music scene, inspiring a new generation of musicians and contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry. His journey from a rising artist to a respected industry leader is a remarkable achievement, reflecting his dedication to music and his unwavering pursuit of artistic excellence.
His latest music project IT’S ABOUT TIME -DA 4AM MIXTAPE ALBUM is available NOW