Entertainment Fees Explained

Entertainment fees vary show to show and are often negotiable depending upon a variety of factors. We've outlined some of the key factors below, ranked in order of importance:

High Importance

Travel Distance
Distance traveled is easily the most important factor that goes into performance price. Fees are generally higher the further an act has to travel from their hometown.
*NOTE: Listed Fee ranges may not include travel
Overnight Lodging
If the distance traveled requires overnight lodging will you provide accommodations, or will the artist need to cover their own lodging expenses?
Sound System
Most artists charge extra for providing sound (and lighting, if needed). For many events, though, this charge is less than what it would cost you to provide sound yourself.
Day of Week/Time of Day
Many performers will vary their price for "off" nights (typically Sunday-Wednesday). However, the exact opposite can be true for performers with day jobs.

Lower Importance

Number & Length of Sets
This isn't a factor for every group, but some artists charge more for longer performance times.
Arrival/Departure Time
Does the artist have to arrive early to set up or stay late to break down? For multiple sets, are their long breaks between performances? Fees are generally higher the longer you keep the artist at the performance.
Meals Provided
Providing meals for the artist is appropriate in most cases, but rarely influences the fee you pay.
Publicity
Most of the artists on this site perform for a living and their fees are generally not influenced by publicity or "great exposure" opportunities.

Intangibles

Experience
When comparing performers, expect to pay more for an experienced, professional performer. Entertainment definitely follows the old adage, "you get what you pay for."
Demand
If you want a popular or well-known act, expect to spend more than you would on an act just starting out.