Ad space in The New York Times will most likely cost more that The Spokane Herald . In addition, if a band sells out in a few minutes, your advertising costs are much lower than if the same band took weeks to sell out a show. Meals are provided because there is not enough time in the day to allow the crew the luxury of going out to eat. Don t forget the artist has to pay for the rental of the sound, lights and video. In addition, the personal manager, business manager, booking agent and lawyer all get a percentage of the band s touring income.
Truth be told, a band is really a touring corporation.
Instead of making widgets, it makes music. When all is said and done, the artist usually takes home 35 cents on the dollar. Without the promoter, the show would not go on. They place the ads, sell the tickets, create the buzz about the show and make sure the band has everything needed to rock the house.