Educational Content

Must-Know Music Industry Terms for Booking Your Next Fair or Festival

May 19, 2026
Jeff Hyman, Vice President & Caterina Terrizzi at Degy Entertainment
Educational Content
Must-Know Music Industry Terms for Booking Your Next Fair or Festival

Sometimes, fair and festival music industry terminology can seem overwhelming, especially to those who are new to the industry or haven’t made a ton of bookings. But don’t worry, because at Degy, we’re here to help! Below, we’ve broken down a few key terms, tailored for fair and festival organizers, within the industry that we often get questions about.  

1. Radius Clause

Part of a contract that states the mileage from an event location that an artist may not perform publicly within a specified number of days before and following said event. An example of this could look like: Artist agrees to not publicly perform within 100 miles of the event location 90 days prior to 30 days following said event.

2. Backline

Refers to any equipment needed for the artist/act performing onstage. This can include both instruments and gear. Pay attention to the contracts to see who the backline is provided by!

3. Advancing

The Process of coordinating and confirming all logistical and technical details with the artist’s team and event organizers in the weeks or days before the show. Key details include load-in times, stage plots, hospitality riders, and guest lists.  

4. Billing Order

The order artists perform and how they’re marketed. ‘Top billing’ implies headliner status and often higher fees.  

5. Hospitality Rider

A section of an artist's contract that outlines specific requests for amenities, accommodations, and other things while on tour or performing at a particular event. These requests can include specific food and beverage preferences, transportation arrangements, and other special needs.  

6. Run of Show (ROS)

A detailed, behind-the-scenes schedule that lays out every moment of an event. It includes elements such as timing, event flow, technical cues, responsibilities, backup plans, and accessibility for all working members of a show.  

7. Anchor Artist

An artist on a line-up strategically booked to draw attention, attract audiences, and bolster ticket sales for your festival’s overall lineup.  

8. Offer Sheet

A contract initiated by the festival (the buyer) to outline key booking terms such as the artist, fee type, logistics, rider access, deposit & payment schedule, plus clauses like radius or exclusivity. It can form a legally binding agreement when accepted.

9. Split Point Deal

A performance agreement where artists receive a base guarantee plus a percentage of ticket sales after expenses are recouped.

10. Hard Ticket vs. Soft Ticket Shows 

- Hard Ticket: Attendees buy tickets specifically to see that artist.

- Soft Ticket: Artist is part of a larger event (like a festival or fair) where tickets cover entry to multiple activities.

So, after reviewing these terms, you’re one step closer to becoming a pro in the festivals and fairs field! Want to put these terms into action while booking your next festival or fair? Browse our entertainment options here or schedule a free consultation with our booking specialists here.

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