Insights - Gigevate

Invoicing and VAT in Electronic Music

Learn how invoicing and VAT responsibilities work between artists and organisers when using Gigevate including practical guidance and invoice templates.

How the Gigevate Booking Process Works

THE GIGEVATE BOOKING PROCESS Booking electronic music artists has traditionally relied on informal conversations trust based agreements and scattered communication. Details are shared across multiple platforms. Payments are delayed or unclear. Important agreements are misunderstood or forgotten. Gigevate was built to introduce structure trust and protection into electronic music bookings without changing the culture that makes the scene what it is. This article explains exactly how the Gigevate booking process works from the moment an organiser creates an event to when payment is safely released after the performance including VAT clarity payment protection and support if anything goes wrong. WHY BOOKINGS NEED STRUCTURE Electronic music thrives on creativity and community but sustainable careers and events require clarity. Artists need Clear confirmation of bookings Guaranteed payment security A professional record of performances Organisers need Confirmed artist commitments Clear accepted terms Reduced admin and financial risk Without a structured process misunderstandings become common and trust becomes fragile. HOW THE GIGEVATE BOOKING PROCESS WORKS STEP 1. THE ORGANISER CREATES AN EVENT Every booking starts with an event. The organiser creates an event on Gigevate and includes: Event date and location Performance expectations Proposed performance fee Additional event notes This creates a clear foundation before approaching an artist. STEP 2. THE ORGANISER SENDS A BOOKING REQUEST Once the event is created the organiser sends a booking request to an artist. The request includes: Full event details Proposed terms Performance expectations At this stage: Nothing is binding No payment is required The artist has full control over the response STEP 3. THE ARTIST RESPONDS The artist can choose how to respond to the booking request. Available options are: Accept the booking Decline the booking Negotiate the terms Negotiation may include changes to: The performance fee Event details Expectations or requirements This ensures both sides are aligned before moving forward. STEP 4. TERMS ARE AGREED Once both parties agree on the final terms the booking becomes ready to be secured. At this point: All details are confirmed No assumptions remain The agreement is clearly documented This is the moment the booking becomes intentional and professional. STEP 5. VAT AND INVOICING CLARITY BEFORE PAYMENT Before payment is made it is important that VAT and invoicing responsibilities are clear. Organisers should: Confirm whether a VAT invoice is required for the performance fee Request the VAT invoice directly from the artist where applicable Ensure their own VAT details are correct Important to know: VAT related to the performance fee is handled directly between the artist and organiser Gigevate does not create or manage performance fee invoices between parties Gigevate handles its own platform related charges separately We are actively working on improving and simplifying VAT and invoicing flows to make this process even clearer in the future. STEP 6. PAYMENT IS MADE AND HELD SAFELY After VAT and invoicing expectations are clear the organiser completes the payment through Gigevate. Once payment is made the funds are secured and held safely until after the performance takes place. This means: The payment is made upfront The funds are not released immediately The payment cannot be withdrawn or redirected The artist knows the payment is reserved for them Gigevate holds the payment to protect both parties throughout the booking process. HOW PAYMENT PROTECTION WORKS When a payment is made through Gigevate it is handled with security fairness and transparency in mind. The payment is: Held securely by Gigevate until the performance is completed Linked directly to the confirmed booking and agreed terms Only released once the booking obligations are fulfilled This creates a neutral protected environment where: Artists do not need to chase payments Organisers do not need to manage transfers manually Both parties know the money is safe The funds are not accessible to either party until the booking is completed. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR ARTISTS For artists payment protection means: You know the organiser has already paid You are not relying on promises or follow ups You can focus on performing without financial stress Your payment is secured before you step on stage. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR ORGANISERS For organisers payment protection means: Your booking is properly confirmed The artist commitment is secured There are no last minute payment issues Payment security supports professional working relationships on both sides. STEP 7. IN APP CHAT OPENS In app communication only becomes available after the terms are agreed and payment has been made. This ensures: The booking is real Both parties are committed Communication stays relevant and professional From this point artists and organisers can coordinate: Technical requirements Set times Arrival and soundcheck details Final logistics All communication stays linked to the booking. STEP 8. THE PERFORMANCE TAKES PLACE The artist performs at the event as agreed. Because payment is already secured both sides can focus fully on delivering a great experience without financial uncertainty. STEP 9. PAYMENT IS RELEASED AFTER THE PERFORMANCE After the performance is completed the secured funds are released to the artist. This ensures: Predictable payouts No follow ups or reminders A completed transparent booking cycle SUPPORT AND DISPUTE ASSISTANCE While most bookings run smoothly we understand that issues can sometimes arise. Gigevate is here to assist if there are: Disputes between parties Issues with fulfilment Questions around agreed terms Our role is to help mediate and support both artists and organisers fairly based on the agreed booking details and platform records. Having everything documented in one place makes resolving issues faster clearer and more transparent. WHY THIS PROCESS BUILDS TRUST The Gigevate booking process protects both artists and organisers equally. Artists are protected through Secured payment before performing Clear confirmed bookings Professional performance history Organisers are protected through Accepted documented terms Artist commitment backed by payment Structured communication and platform support Trust is built into the system rather than assumed. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE ELECTRONIC MUSIC SCENE Structure

Exploring the Role of Data in Event Planning

Discover how data-driven insights make music event planning smarter and more efficient. Learn how analytics help organisers boost success and deliver unforgettable shows.

The Market Opportunity in Music Tech

The music tech industry isn’t just growing, it’s exploding. Across Europe, artists and event organisers are increasingly embracing technology to streamline events, improve fan experiences, and enhance their music careers. This surge in innovation offers massive opportunities for those who leverage it effectively. Growth by the Numbers The global music tech market is projected to reach over €30 billion by 2026. Europe specifically has become a hub for innovation, with thriving scenes in cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, London, and Barcelona. This expansion is driven by factors such as: Rising fan expectations for interactive experiences. Artists’ growing reliance on digital platforms for promotion and bookings. Organisers seeking efficiency and transparency in event management. How Artists Benefit Artists using technology not only elevate their visibility but gain direct control over their careers: Global reach: Platforms like SoundCloud and Spotify have empowered independent DJs to build worldwide audiences without traditional gatekeepers. Fair opportunities: Digital booking platforms ensure transparency in payments and bookings. Fan engagement: Social tools and analytics provide deeper insights into audiences, allowing artists to engage directly with their most devoted followers. Organisers Capitalising on Tech Innovation Event organisers who adopt advanced tech solutions stand out by delivering smoother, more engaging events: Centralised booking: Integrated systems reduce the administrative burden, making artist bookings faster and easier. Data-driven decisions: Analytics guide everything from lineup selections to marketing strategies. Improved fan experience: Innovations like RFID cashless payments, mobile apps, and real-time updates elevate attendee satisfaction and engagement. Gigevate’s Role in the Music Tech Revolution Gigevate was founded precisely because of this market opportunity. Our platform aims to connect artists, organisers, and fans more efficiently: Artists get increased visibility and straightforward bookings. Organisers benefit from streamlined processes and secure payments. Fans gain access to personalised event experiences and exclusive community interactions. Join the Music Tech Movement The market is clear music tech is not just the future—it’s already here. Embracing innovation now ensures you’re ready for tomorrow’s opportunities. Ready to capitalise on the booming music tech market? Stay ahead of the curve by learning what innovation can do for your career or events. Gigevate is here to help you seize opportunities with powerful solutions designed for artists and organisers. Visit our About Page and consider early sign-up to join the movement transforming the music industry. SIGN UP FOR BETA

How Data Transforms Music Events

Discover how data-driven insights make music event planning smarter and more efficient. Learn how analytics help organisers boost success and deliver unforgettable shows.

Brand Sponsorship

Gigevate’s Brand Sponsorship service connects you with brands that resonate with your sound and audience. Get financial support, product endorsements, and co-branding opportunities.

Grimes’ Coachella 2024 Setback: Key Lessons for Artists

Unlock the power of video content to enhance your music brand. Learn how to use music videos, behind-the-scenes footage, live performance captures, and more to connect with your audience and stand out in the electronic music scene. Discover how Gigevate can help you create a visual vibe that complements your beats and elevates your online presence.

The Ultimate Press Kit Essentials to Elevate Your Electronic Music Career

Boost Your Brand with Gigevate: Expert Content Creation for a Resonating Video Presence

The Art of Engagement

Unlock the secrets to transforming social media followers into devoted fans. Dive into our latest blog post to explore authentic engagement strategies tailored for the electronic music community, and learn how to create a strong, interactive online presence that resonates with your audience.