The deposit is the promoter's commitment in money. It also gives the artist cash before the costs of a tour land.
Standard practice
- 50 percent of the fee is the European norm
- Due 14 to 30 days before the show, or on signature for dates booked far ahead
- Paid to the agency, which holds it and passes it on
- Not refundable when the artist is ready to play and the promoter cancels late
Why it goes to the agency
Client account rules vary by country, but most agencies collect the deposit, take their commission from it and forward the rest. It gives the agent something to chase with, and it stops a fee being spent before the show happens.
When it is not half
New promoters, unfamiliar territories and countries with slow banking often get asked for the full fee up front. Established promoters sometimes pay nothing until the day. Both are negotiable and both belong in the Contract.