in many ways, they’re also worth their weight in salt, like a great manager. Also like find-
ing the right manager, shop around to find an agent who is a good fit for your band or
solo act. Are they with a huge booking agency? If so, you may not get the attention you
need. Conversely, if they’re too small and/or unknown, they probably won’t be in a posi-
tion to book you into some excellent venues.
Agents are paid by the show. In other words, they book you into this or that venue
and they make a commission, usually ten percent off the top of those shows. They don’t
make money off your merchandise, record sales, songwriting royalites or other revenue
sources. Just the gigs they book. Also, there will be a contract involved. Have your attor-
ney look it over with care. Never agree to any commissions or fees beyond bookings.
Also, try your best to keep contract terms down to one year, if possible. Unless you hap-
pen to be a gifted clairvoyant, you can’t see into the future and learn what this person will
do for you. You can usually renew and renegotiate near the end of the contract’s term.
Finally, when it comes to agents and touring outside of the country, try to get an agent
in those or that local market. They’ll be much more familiar with the lay of the land. En-
sure this is in your contract with your local agent. Also, ensure that if you aren’t booked
within a specified period of time, the deal’s off. That’s normally ninety days, give or take.
Accountant
Number crunchers come in a few flavors. These include bookkeepers, accountants, and
certified public accountants (CPAs). The one that’s right for you, like so many things in
business, depends. The critical factor is that you get the right help in setting up and im-
plementing the financial systems for your band.