A good deal is part and parcel of a good gig. You should prepare yourself, however, for the fact that many shows lose money. If you're just getting started and don't have much of a following yet, you should think of your gigs as promotional opportunities for your band rather than money making opportunities. Your willingness to work with a promoter and/or a venue to try and minimize the financial risk involved in a show will only help you convince people to work with you.
Your deal should detail how any income for the show will be divided, as well as confirming information about things like accommodation for the band, riders, backline, guest list and soundchecks. If there is something you're unsure about or you don't think is fair, speak up well in advance of the show.
Deals can be scary, especially if you're new to booking gigs. Help is at hand in the articles below:
