How do I Start an Entertainment Booking Agency

**Kingpin27** · 12-21-2007 12:21 PM

I want to start booking gigs for artist in my area. I am not to sure how to start can anyone give any advice.

**ltressel** · 12-21-2007 02:01 PM

Just curious-what interested you in the business? I would suggest that you apprentice with a company that does such business first and then you can learn hands on. Get the experience first before you can ambition to own one.

You need experience, need knowledge, mentors, and then if you still like the business, pursue it on your own.

LT

**rogercbryan** · 12-21-2007 03:38 PM

King, you can do this 'easily' if you have a little money. I used quotes because while the process is fundamentally easy there is a lot of work to do and a bit of risk.

I represented a rap group in Cleveland for about 2 years before I started my consulting company. The key to getting started was setting up your own events. You can approach local venues (coffee shops, bars, and halls). You then need to sell tickets to your event to cover costs in order to pay for the venue and marketing. (this is the short version).

If the person/group you are representing is any good you should be able to sell tickets to their fans, friends, and family. What you are trying to do it build a profitable history to your events. When you try to get third party venues to book your group you will be able to show their potential in real numbers. You can then work both sides to promote your band. This is a simple process but it takes a lot of work.

If you are going to do this make sure you have $5K in the bank to fund a couple shows and you need to be ready to work. It won't happen over night and not every show will be profitable. This is how I did it and I saw a decent return on my time and money. Had I not moved to Washington, DC I may have continued to do this.

**CEEWorld** · 04-26-2009 08:46 AM

Hi,

I don't wish to put a dampner on things but the comments thus far make it seem that starting an entertainment agency is an easy task. This most certainly is not the case.

I am the CEO of an entertainment agency based in the Uk with over 32 years experience of the industry, and I work very long hours.

The comments thus far have missed some very important issues. First there are laws and regulations governing Entertainment Agencies, both in the UK and US. I will at this time deal with the US laws.

Most states in the US require that an entertainment agency be registered these laws are for Texas but most states have similar laws in place just google Talent Agencies Law In US this should give you some idea of what to expect. There have been recent cases of agencies flouting state regulations and the penalties are harsh. Can you afford a huge fine and a possible criminal record for malpractice. What this also means is insurance against a malpractice suit, which is not cheap. You will also need Public Liability Insurance, why?, book an acts somewhere that isn't insured and someone gets injured who will they sue if they can't sue the act, yes you have guessed it ..... YOU. You will also have to be registered for state and possible federal taxes on your business.

Now comes the next part, you must issue contracts that are legal. You cannot write what you think is a legal contract because if sued it probably won't stand up in court. Investing in legal document software specific for the task is expensive. Then there are overheads such as printing phone bills etc. and just because someone makes an enquiry doesn't mean they will book with you. So you could be doing a lot of work for little gain. On average a good agency can convert about 10-20% of enquiries, one that is starting out will be fortunate to convert 3%.

If you are serious look into exactly what you need to do and the regulations you need to comply with. Oh I almost forgot there is also the matter of Data Protection. You will also have to meet all the requirements for this too.

It may seem like a lot to do but trust me in the end you are protecting yourself. If you are still interested seek advice from professional agencies in your area who can steer you in the right directions. A large agency will not see you as a threat and are more likely to give advice, remember though be courtious at all times to them The ohter thing is DO NOT send them unsolicited e-mail, telephone them and try to get an appointment to chat with someone. If there are networking meetings taking place try and go to some and make some contacts who can advise you.

If you do something do it well and don't leave yourself open to prosecution. Learn all you can about your local entertainment industry. It may take time but listen and act on advice, it is usually very sound and can help you not make mistakes, if you are not sure about something don't assume the answer seek professional guidance.

In following what I have said you will slowly build a trusted name and gain respect and this will eventually open more doors.

**crayonberry** · 04-26-2009 10:22 AM

Some booking agency in my area, host shows with only the bands they represent. This gets YOUR name out there, as well as your clients. Also, I would start off with a small fee, and sell their merchandise.

**brode** · 07-24-2009 12:43 PM

how much should a young booking agent charge for their services? does the pay come from the band or the venue?

**LSnyder** · 07-24-2009 02:31 PM

The original post goes back to 2007.

**CEEWorld** · 09-29-2009 08:40 PM

Commission rates vary but the average is 15%. Please be aware that the commission is payed to an agency by the act, you cannot charge a venue/hirer commission. You should also bear in mind that commission is only payable after the event has taken place you cannot expect to receive any commission in advance of the event, the other point to remember is that an act is not obliged to pay you until they have been payed by the venue/hirer. If they do not get paid you cannot expect any commission until they have.