Tour Support
Financial assistance provided by record labels to offset touring losses during artist development, typically recoupable against future royalty earnings.
Definition
Tour support helps developing artists afford professional touring by covering losses when show revenues don't cover touring expenses. Labels invest in touring to build fanbases, support album promotion, and develop artists into profitable live performers.
This funding typically covers transportation, accommodation, crew costs, and equipment expenses that exceed guaranteed performance fees, enabling artists to play appropriate venues and maintain professional presentation standards.
Why It Matters
Tour support enables career development by allowing artists to tour professionally before achieving financial sustainability through live performance. This investment period is crucial for building audiences and developing performance skills.
While tour support advances are usually recoupable, they provide essential cash flow for artists to maintain touring momentum and build the live fanbase necessary for long-term career sustainability and eventual profitability.
Examples in Practice
Developing indie rock bands receive tour support to open for established acts, covering the difference between small opening act fees and the costs of professional touring with proper equipment and crew.
Emerging pop artists use label tour support to fund showcase performances in key markets, building industry buzz and fan engagement in cities where their recorded music shows streaming traction.
Electronic music artists receive tour support for festival appearances and club tours, enabling them to invest in production elements and visual components that enhance live performance value and booking appeal.