Promoter Deals Explained
Guarantees, door splits, backend — how promoter deals actually work.
Promoter Deals Explained
When a promoter books your band, you need to understand how you're getting paid. There are three main deal structures, and each one has different risk and upside.
Flat Guarantee
A flat guarantee is the safest option. The promoter pays you a fixed amount, regardless of ticket sales. You show up, play your set, and walk away with the agreed fee—whether the show sells five tickets or five hundred.
- Pros: Predictable income, no financial risk, you can budget knowing exactly what you'll make
- Cons: You don't benefit if the show is packed; the promoter keeps all the extra revenue
- Best for: Early-career bands with no draw; you need reliable income
Typical guarantees range from $100–$500 for local shows, higher for touring acts with proven audiences.
Door Deal
In a door deal, you earn a percentage of ticket sales at the door. The promoter's cut comes first (to cover venue rent, sound, lights), then the rest is split between artists and the venue.
- Pros: You profit if the show kills; incentivizes promotion since your take grows with attendance
- Cons: You make nothing if nobody shows up; you're dependent on the promoter's accounting and honesty
- Best for: Bands with a solid local fanbase who can drive ticket sales
A typical split might be: venue gets 30%, promoter gets 30%, artists split 40%. Those numbers vary wildly.
Plus Deals
A plus deal is a hybrid. You get a small guarantee (e.g., $100) plus a percentage of door. If the show bombs, you at least made the guarantee. If it packs, you share in the upside.
- Pros: Some financial safety, some upside; the best of both worlds
- Cons: More complex; both parties have skin in the game
- Best for: Mid-level touring acts and established local bands
Reading a Settlement
Always ask for a settlement after the show. The promoter should write down:
- Total tickets sold and total revenue
- Venue's cut
- Promoter's cut
- Your cut (gross)
- Any deductions (equipment damage, unsold comps, etc.)
- Your net payment
Red flags: A promoter who refuses to show you numbers, won't put the deal in writing, or disappears after the show. Get everything via email or text.
Pro tip: Bring someone to count door as it happens. It's not personal—it's business.