Why is it that when someone wants to hire a band they try and get away with paying the least possible amount if anything for the group to share their gift.
I don't understand how anyone could ask an artist to perform for free!!
Thats like asking a Mechanic to work for free! Or asking a doctor to heal you for free!
These Musicians have probably worked on their craft as long or longer than some 6 figure proffesionals have and are constantly giving up their pride and performing for free. YES They are doing it for the love of music... YES They do love their Fans... and YES They do have Gifts, That not everyone posseses.
If everyone could do what they did, Then everyone would.
stop trying to get over on our artists, pay them what they are worth, or what they ask.
Paying the Conjunto and Tejano artists is one major way in supporting la musica. Most of these artists are the roadies as well. They play for 3 or 4 hours then pack their own equipment and if their lucky there home by 4 or 5 in the morning. When I had my going away party the band playing already had a set price. After my party was over I added an extra $100 for a job well done. Thanks to forums like these also demonstrates our support for the music.
I think that Conjunto Musicians should do something about putting together a Union of Musicians to help with the problem of our fellow musicians and to help insure proper pay, Safe Travel, and different thing that we as musicians face on the road.
