GENERAL POLICES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ALCOHOL POLICY

PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS

TRAVEL POLICIES

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to redefine what clients expect from an event band - delivering high-energy, versatile live entertainment while being the most seamless, professional, and planner-friendly team in the industry.

GENERAL CODE OF CONDUCT

At Downtown Band Entertainment, we uphold professionalism, integrity, and respect at every event. The following guidelines apply to all employees, musicians, and contractors:

Be Professional
Always treat clients, colleagues, and vendors with respect - on and off stage.
Be On Time & Ready
Arrive punctually for call times, sound checks, and performances with all required gear and attire.
Respect Others
Create a safe, inclusive environment. Disrespect, aggression, or disruptive behavior won't be tolerated.
Look the Part
Follow the dress code outlined in your gig email during all performances and client interactions.
Follow Rules & Policies
Abide by the law and company protocols, including NDAs and event-specific guidelines.
Strictly Prohibited

Harassment, bullying, or discrimination
Unprofessional or aggressive behavior
Illegal or unethical actions
Any conduct endangering others or harming the company’s reputation

Violations may lead to immediate removal from the event and loss of future work opportunities.

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ALCOHOL & CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES POLICY

To protect the safety, reputation, and legal standing of Downtown Band Entertainment, all employees, musicians, and techs must follow these rules at all events unless DBE Leadership provides written exceptions.

Corporate Events – No Alcohol
Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Many corporate clients have zero-tolerance policies, and violations can damage relationships and credibility. No exceptions without written approval.

Weddings – Discreet, Off-Stage Only
Alcohol is not provided by DBE. If consuming a personal beverage:

No visible bottles, cans, or branding
Never drink in view of clients, staff, or guests
Use discreet, non-clear cups
No alcohol on stage or during performances

Failure to follow these rules may result in removal from future gigs.

Bus Gigs & Travel
Alcohol may be consumed on the bus or in private lodging, but must stay in those areas. Do not bring alcohol into venues unless permitted under wedding guidelines.

Controlled Substances – Zero Tolerance
Use or possession of any controlled substances (including marijuana) is strictly forbidden at events or in company vehicles/lodging.

Violations will result in immediate termination.

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DBE TEAM

We’re here to help! Here’s who to reach out to based on your needs:

General Questions or Ideas – Contact Bryce Merritt
For anything not tied to a specific event—like medley ideas, feedback, or suggestions—reach out to Bryce.

Gig-Specific Questions (Before the Event) – Contact DJ Phillips
Check your WTG link first for details like parking, charts, and soundcheck times. If it’s not yet available or doesn’t answer your question, contact DJ.

Day-of Event Questions – Ask On-Site Leadership
On the day of the event, direct all questions to the Lead Vocalist, Band Leader, or A1. They’re fully informed and ready to assist.

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BAND PLATFORM - WTG

We use WheresTheGig (WTG) to manage all event info—gig invites, costumes, timelines, setlists, travel, and more.

Every confirmed team member gets a unique WTG link with key gig details. Review it carefully and check back for updates. These short tutorial videos walk you through the platform.

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MONITOR APP

DBE uses in-ear monitors via the SQ4U app so musicians can control their own mix. Download the app before the gig. At soundcheck, the Band Leader or Lead Vocalist will help you get connected and set up

Download SQ4U for iPhone

Download SQ4U for Android

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RAMP UP CALLS

A1, Lead Vocalist, Band Leader, are invited to our weekly ramp up call on Tuesdays at 2:00 PM CST where we discuss the gigs coming up.

JOIN RAMP UP

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WARDROBE EXPECTATIONS

First impressions count. Musicians and techs must follow the dress code outlined in gig emails for all performances and client interactions.

Be Professional:
Dress neatly and appropriately. Grooming should reflect professionalism and care.

All Black Soundcheck:
All staff must wear all black to soundcheck: black jeans, joggers, shirts, sweaters, or button-downs, suited to the season and style.

MUSICIANS WARDROBE GUIDE

A1 & TECH WARDROBE GUIDE

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PAYMENT

Gig payments are scheduled the Wednesday before each show and typically deposit by the following Monday.

We use Melio for payments—either via ACH direct deposit or mailed check. If you’re not signed up yet, to update your payment method, or submit a new W-9, contact Leah Myers.

BASE PAY RATES
Rates vary by travel, music, and other factors. Refer to the base pay rate cards for details.

MUSICIAN

A1

TECH

DRIVING

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OVERTIME

Musicians may occasionally be asked to perform longer than expected. Performance time includes only time spent actively performing—setup, soundcheck, breaks, and downtime are excluded.

Performance Overtime

Overtime pay: $100 per 30 minutes per musician/A1 after 4 hours of total performance.
A 30-minute grace period applies to events if the 4-hour limit isn’t exceeded.

Example 1 – No Overtime Pay
6:00 PM – Start
9:00 PM – Projected End (grace period begins)
9:30 PM – Actual End

Example 2 – Overtime Pay Enforced
6:00 PM – Start
10:00 PM – Projected End
10:30 PM – 30 mins overtime pay

Note: Sets performed in separate locations (e.g., ceremony/cocktail hour) are paid separately and don’t count toward the 4-hour total.

On-Site Overtime

Musicians: Paid $50/hr after 10 cumulative hours on site
A1/Techs: Paid after 12 cumulative hours on site

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REIMBURSEMENT

For approved gig-related purchases made with a personal card, email the receipt, event date, and expense type to:
receipts@downtownbandentertainment.com

Reimbursements are processed through the same portal as gig payments.

Approved expenses include: