The ethical headache I faced booking our town's indie fest

Last month, I helped set up a small indie music festival in my town. We had to pick bands for the lineup, and one option was a well known group that draws big crowds. But I heard they don't always pay their support acts fairly. Another choice was a newer band with less fame but a good rep for treating everyone right. We debated for a while because the fest needed money from ticket sales. In the end, we chose the newer band, and while fewer people came, the show felt more honest. Has anyone dealt with a similar choice? How do you handle these tough calls in music?

3 comments

3 Comments

cameronm416d ago

Honestly, the whole debate sounds like picking between a shiny lemon and a reliable apple. The big band might bring in crowds, but if they're known for stiffing others, that's a bad look for your fest. Choosing the newer group means you traded some ticket money for a clear conscience, which is a bargain in my book. It's funny how often the 'right' choice feels like a loss until you see the actual show. Less people means shorter lines for the bathroom, so there's a silver lining. You made the call that lets everyone involved walk away without a bad taste, and that's worth more than a few extra sales.

derek_hayes576d ago

Years ago, I would've picked the big name for the ticket sales without a second thought. Then I saw a headliner skip out on paying the support bands, and it left a bad taste for months. Your choice to go with the newer group was solid. Smaller crowds now can mean a healthier scene later.

the_andrew3d ago

Remember when I went for the flashy headliner last year? Paid through the nose, and they showed up late, half the set was playback. Felt like a total scam, and the crowd could tell. Your call to pick the newer group is smart because they actually care about the show. Might not sell out, but everyone leaves happy, and that word of mouth is gold. Plus, you sleep better at night, which is worth more than a few extra bucks.