How to spot exploitative offers

Pay-to-play, “exposure”, rights grabs and fake promoters — the red flags and what to ask instead.

Red flags

• You pay to perform or must “sell a minimum number of tickets” — you become the promoter, not the artist.
• “Exposure” instead of pay for a commercial event with sponsors and ticket sales.
• Pressure: “decide today”, “only 2 slots left”.
• No written terms or vague promises on date, set length, fee and payment date.
• Rights grabs: contracts asking for ownership of your songs/masters, or exclusivity for years, for a small advance.
• Unverifiable organisers: no website, no past events, only a new Instagram page.
• Upfront fees for “playlist placement”, “label submissions” or “guaranteed streams”.

Ask these questions

1. What is the exact fee, and on what date will it be paid — and how (bank transfer, UPI)?
2. Who else is on the bill? Can I speak to an artist who played your last event?
3. What equipment and sound check will be provided?
4. Can you send this in writing (email/WhatsApp) with the venue, date and timings?
5. What rights, if any, are you asking for — recording, streaming, use of my name/photos?

Not sure? Post it (without personal details) in the community and ask — or use the Report button on any listing. Every opportunity on MusicMarket is reviewed, and fee-to-participate listings are clearly labelled.

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