Rock & Erika
Erika
Hey Rock, ever wondered how to nail a touring contract that keeps your creative edge intact? Let's talk strategy.
Rock
Yeah, let’s lock it so you stay in the zone. Keep the per‑show fee high enough to cover your gear, add a clause that lets you pick the setlist, and force a set rehearsal slot before each gig so your vibe stays fresh. And make sure the tour manager can’t micromanage your creative flow. That’s how you keep the edge while you tour.
Erika
Nice outline. But you’ll need hard language. Put a clear cap on rehearsal time, a penalty if the manager oversteps, a “creative autonomy” clause that’s signed, and index the fee to inflation. And don’t let them sneak in a “reasonable” clause that can be twisted later. A quick handshake over the fine print keeps the future drama off the road.
Rock
Sounds solid. Cap rehearsal to, say, 90 minutes per week – no more, no less. Penalty: $1,000 per day the manager tries to micromanage your set. “Creative Autonomy” clause must say you alone decide setlist, tempo, and stage antics, and it’s signed by the manager before the tour starts. Index the base fee to the CPI each quarter so your cash stays in line with living costs. And drop any “reasonable” clause – if it shows up, you’ll have to cut it out. A one‑page handshake with those points, and you’re good to roll.
Erika
Looks razor‑sharp, but remember to flag that the $1,000 penalty can't apply to a manager who just says “I’m checking the lighting.” We need a clear definition of “micromanage” and a self‑enforcing mechanism—maybe a signed daily log or a joint meeting if it starts. Also, index to CPI is fine, but add a cap on the increase so it doesn’t inflate your budget out of proportion. One page, a few bullet points, and you’ve got a contract that keeps the manager from playing puppet master. Ready to sign?
Rock
Got it—tight, clear, and no puppet strings. Let’s sign it and hit the road.
Erika
Perfect. I’ll have the legal team send the final version by Friday. Let’s get the tour on schedule—just don’t let them try to juggle our rhythm. Good luck out there.
Rock
Sounds like a plan. Keep the beats tight and the vibes higher. See you on the stage—let's make some noise!