Bands must be paid

As the title suggests, it's exactly what this post is about. There are many arguments to this, but the truth remains: bands must be paid.

There's no denying that people love the sound and energy of a live band. Otherwise, there won't be crowds at events featuring live bands. Venue owners and event organisers understand this very well.

Bands receive payment in various forms. Some bands are paid thousands for a stint at an upmarket hotel lounge. Some bands are paid hundreds at a bar. Some bands are paid a token for a set at an indie gig. Some are paid with complimentary drinks and food. But, on many occasions, bands aren't properly paid for their work.

The word "exposure" is thrown around when venue owners or event organisers claim to have no budget to pay the band. This has become a ridiculous but a real problem. If "exposure" is really the payment offered, venue owners and event organisers must do their part in effective marketing and promotion. Spread the word about a band that did a good job to other venue owners and event organisers, so that the band can actually benefit from "exposure".

It's absurd to suggest that bands should be happy to do what they are passionate about, and not get paid for it. Try convincing the automotive engineers who build luxury supercars that they should not get paid simply because they are passionate about it.

When a plumber is hired to fix the piping at a venue, he is sure to get paid for his services. When a caterer is brought in to cook for an event, they are sure to get paid. When a sound and light crew is engaged for a festival, they are sure to get paid.

So why then, do venue owners and event organisers feel they can forego paying the band?

How is it that payment for bands is not given serious consideration during the planning of events?

Before these questions garner a horde of justifications from those with strong opinions, it's only fair to consider what a band goes through in preparation for a performance.

Bands spend weeks, months even, to prepare for a good performance. Musicians spend years honing their skills, getting better at their craft just so they are marketable in this competitive industry. Yes, in case you're not aware, this is an industry.

Bands work hard. The whole "sex, drugs and rock n roll" reference hardly paints an accurate picture of what bands actually go through. A lot of time and money are spent on equipment, rehearsals, recording, merchandise, marketing and travel.

Many musicians have sleepless nights worrying about how successful they are, or if they have enough in their bank accounts to survive the week. Why? Because the struggle is real.

No amount of justification can offset the fact that when a band is invited to play, they must be paid. If you can't afford to pay the band, don't bother. There's always Spotify. At least the bands are still getting "exposure" without being exposed to disrespect and exploitation.