One of the most disappointing parts of working as a DJ is looking forward to a paying gig only to find out that it’s been cancelled. What do you do then?
The first question is whether you’ve been given sufficient notice. If you find out a week or more ahead of time, then it’s easier to find work to fill that time. If the gig is cancelled a few days ahead of time, you might still be ok. But, imagine arriving at the gig only to be told that there’s no gig to play anymore. Has that happened to you?
Here are my thoughts on the situation.
- Keep a record of how you’re treated by each club and promoter. Stop accepting gigs from those who are likely to cancel on you.
- Get the commitment in writing, preferably in contract form. Also, ask for partial or full payment upfront.
- Improve your self-promotion so a cancellation won’t set you back too much.
What other tips can you offer?
