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Marcus Jackson's avatar

Thanks for the explanation about riders. Thank goodness many freestyle musicians are reasonable about their accommodations, especially as part of ensemble concerts.

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Latif Mercado's avatar

Yes, it's a fine line between being treated with respect, and being unreasonable. Artists just have to keep an eye on that line because it can blur a bit.

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Gregory's avatar

This is terrific read, quite detailed and informative. I have to say I am quite new to having an appreciation to the Freestyle genre. I have a newfound respect for the artists, promoters, booking agents, and most definitely for the fans that keep this genre alive. Thank you so much for all that you do.

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Latif Mercado's avatar

Thank you, Gregory, that means a lot and exactly my intentions. To enlighten those familiar with the genre, and inform those who aren't as in touch.

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Ryan Estrada's avatar

This is a great read and very informative. I keep learning more new things in the freestyle community.

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Latif Mercado's avatar

Thank you brother, that means a lot, and of course thank you for your contribution to The Blast.

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Ryan Estrada's avatar

I’m enjoying being a part of it

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Jose luis borrero's avatar

Hey latif.....This is an interesting subject. I've been curious...as most of us...as to how it lays out....Which artists are more bookable than others?.....Does that influence the amount of $$ They make?.....The line ups are usually the same artists, which can be a bit monotonous....How about setting up a show with artists that had lesser know hits...yet....not total strangers to us?.....And call it.....The Comeback!....Where's Tina B?...The Nasty Boys?.....Clear Touch?.....Two without hatz?...Sebastian?....ect.....I know...I know....Doent sound Feasable....but Hey!.....We can all hope!.....Peace!!!

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Latif Mercado's avatar

Hey Jose, thank you for always participating, and asking important questions. You've been an incredible supporter for many many years. Yes, the popularity of an artist definitely influences their fee. As a booking agent, I know everyone's fees. I know the ones who are solid and those who fluctuate. Most artists know what the market is willing to pay them, though many would try and get more. I am a big fan of consistency in pay, especially me as an agent because since I have promoter clients, I don't want to charge one promoter one price, and the other another price. Also, the reason you see alot of the same acts on shows is simply because they've already proven that they can sell tickets. Not that the others cannot, but the promoters rather not take a chance. They want a sure thing All The Time. They're no in the business to help others with their careers. Promoters are in it for their careers, and even I understand that. But once an artist gets on a line up, that is their opportunity to run with it. They should be up there doing their absolute best. They should be reasonable in price and easy to work with. Once they become regulars on certain lineups, others will take notice. I probably have to do any article on that. Thank you for striking the idea.

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