Working with q

What we do

• Offer gigs and private event opportunities to qualified artists while simplifying communication, contracts, invoicing and payment. Artists can focus on their art and performance.
• Create more efficient booking and payment systems for artists and venues via proprietary systems.​
• Communicate with venues and use their feedback to determine what artists work best for their space.​

What we don't do

• We are not your boss or employer. You are a small business and independent contractor, just like us. We expect you to make decisions that are the best for your business, as we do. There's no requirement to accept gigs we offer you.
• We are not exclusive. You are free to book gigs and events at other venues we don't service.
• Guarantee work. We strive to put artists in a position to succeed, but the true "X" factor is the artist. A unique mix of talent, network, and personality may be perfect in some places, but may not be suited for every venue, manager, team, or night. Decision makers at the venues dictate their preferred artists to us. 

What we expect

Before your set
​
​BE ON TIME
Performance or music should begin by your scheduled set time. If you're running late, contact your booker or the manager (see Venue Guide). We reserve the right to pro-rate late sets.

KNOW THE VIBE
Read the Venue Guides if you're unsure of set details. Contact us if you need more guidance.

BE RESPONSIBLE

• You are responsible for any gig you accept from us until it's covered. We can help find covers with adequate lead time
• No call no shows will result in a block on further bookings​

During your set

​BE RESPECTFUL

• Of patrons
• Of venue staff and management
• Of other artists
• Of equipment (keep drinks at a safe distance)
• Of other's time and space

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BE PRESENT

• Do not show up compromised: drunk, high, etc.
• Be aware of the room's energy
• Do not eat during sets. Eat before or after.
• Breaks shouldn't exceed 5-10 minutes
• Looking bored will be felt by the team and patrons

After your set

​DO NOT CUT AND RUN
(DJs) If there isn't a DJ after you and it's not closing time, check in 10 min prior to your end time and give the manager an opportunity to switch over the music.

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INVOICE VIA Q MUSIC PAY

Invoice

BOOKINg TIPS

Succesful artists tend to share the following traits:

Talent
At Q, we hold performers to a higher standard than just being great at their craft. We seek those who can really get a feel for what’s working in the room. Did you read the VENUE GUIDES? Are you updating your playlists or repertoire enough to keep things interesting? Do you work as part of a team with staff to create a great customer experience?

Emotional Quotient
Hospitality venues are more customer-facing than, say, a nightclub or live venue. They requires a higher level of professionalism and presence. Traits include: 1) a great attitude, 2) dressing and acting appropriately, 3) respectful interactions with the team and patrons, 4) flexibility and composure when there's a hiccup, 5) timeliness, and 6) looking like you want to be there. These aren't always easy, but artists that portray the above are requested more.

Team Mentality
Venues have two goals: 1) customers having a great experience, and 2) an efficient and successful service. We help them achieve these goals through artistic talent and by being in tune to patrons and staff. Artists who make a team's job easier will get asked back. Build a rapport of respect with the team; in most cases they'll accommodate you if you need extra guests or hospitality in return.

Venues often prefer a 'B+' artist who Is respectful and has a great attitude to an 'A+' artist who is unaware, inflexible or rude

THINGS TO AVOID

SHOWING UP LATE, DRUNK, SICK, OR OTHERWISE COMPROMISED
Managers notice, patrons notice, and showing up sick threatens other's health and livelihoods.

BEING DEMANDING OR RUDE TO STAFF OR PATRONS
Servers are happy to offer you service but need to prioritize their tables. Sometimes patrons can ask annoying questions or make silly requests. It’s hospitality - patience is key. Alert a staff member if there is an issue.

OVERSHARING / IMPOSING ON STAFF OR PATRONS
Let them do their jobs. Venues are often understaffed and managers overworked. If you're at all unsure of whether you're being "annoying," just allow them to initiate casual conversations beyond polite greetings and check-ins.

(DJs) ABRUPTLY KILLING THE MUSIC
If it isn't closing time and there's no relief DJ present, check in with someone in the last 10-15 minutes of your set so they can get the house music cued up. Flexibility and showing you care matters to clients.

BEING UNRELIABLE
We tend to book artists who show up to work, do not require last minute covers, and receive positive feedback from venues.