Here’s an article on signing contracts with music promoters that you should probably read. This might be a bit advanced for a band that’s just starting out, but once you start to build a following this aspect of the business is crucial.

This doesn’t mean that new bands shouldn’t read it. There are shady promoters and club owners out there that use contracts in very unethical ways. I know of one promoter that signs new bands that are desperate to play. The contract states that the bands must draw more than a specific number of people or they are responsible for the amount that the minimum audience would bring in – or if you are contracted to bring in 10 people and they pay a total of $100 and you only bring in 5, you have to pay the difference ($50). This promoter is a bit notorious among local musicians and his club is mostly avoided by those who know better.

This is why you should know what you’re getting into. Like with any contract, you really need to make sure that all bases are covered and that you are protected. Check it out.