Is the Music Industry Afraid to Talk About Money?

Why is it still taboo to mention fees, expenses, or fair terms?

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When Money Becomes Awkward

In many creative fields – and especially in music – talking about money is often seen as inappropriate or even "unartistic." As if discussing fees ruins the magic. Music should come from the heart, we’re told – not from a spreadsheet.

But musicians pay rent like everyone else.

Why is it still uncomfortable to ask, “What did you get paid for that gig?”
Why is sending a contract or invoice seen as demanding?

A System Built on Silence

There’s a long-standing culture in the music industry where staying silent about money is mistaken for professionalism. Young artists are introduced to “exposure gigs,” and many end up working for free far too long. This lack of transparency helps no one – except maybe the few who already hold power.

Without clear standards, it's hard for newcomers to know what's fair. Those with experience and networks can navigate the system. Everyone else is left in the dark.

Beatnickel Believes in Openness

At Beatnickel, we want to change that.
We’re building features that allow musicians to share experiences, rate collaborations, and see what typical terms look like – not to shame anyone, but to raise the bar.

Played at a venue and had a great experience? Share it.
Had a bad one? Share that too.
When we share knowledge, we raise the standard for everyone.

Music Is Passion – But Also Work

Talking about money in music isn’t cynical – it’s realistic.
Of course we’ll still play for fun, for friends, for the joy of it. But that should be a choice, not a default, just because no one dares to bring up the fee.

Beatnickel wants to help create a culture where it’s just as normal to discuss rates and contracts as it is to discuss soundcheck and setlists.

It’s not about greed.
It’s about respect.