What is a Deal Memo?

A deal memo (also called a confirmation or deal sheet) is a short document confirming the main agreed terms of a show, such as date, fee and deal, so both sides can move ahead before the full contract is issued. It lets the promoter announce and put tickets on sale quickly once a show is agreed. In many markets, the deal memo is also what triggers the deposit invoice.

How a deal memo works

A deal memo sits between the offer and the contract:

  1. Accept the offer: the agent accepts the promoter's offer, perhaps after negotiation.
  2. Write the memo: the agent or promoter lists the agreed terms in a short document.
  3. Confirm: both sides sign or confirm by email.
  4. Announce: the show can be confirmed and prepared for on-sale.
  5. Issue the contract: the full contract and rider follow.

Deal memos, contracts and riders need to be easy to find later, which is why teams store them with documents in Crescat.

Deal memo vs contract

A deal memo covers the key commercial terms in a page or two. A contract covers everything, including cancellation terms, liabilities and the full rider. A deal memo can be binding if signed, so it should be accurate. If the two documents differ, the signed contract usually takes priority, so check it matches the memo.

What a deal memo usually includes

  • Artist, promoter and venue
  • Date, doors and set times if known
  • Capacity and ticket prices
  • The fee and deal type
  • Deposit amount and due date
  • Key conditions, such as a radius clause
  • On-sale and announcement dates
  • Who will issue the full contract, and when

Frequently asked questions

Is a deal memo legally binding?

It can be, especially if signed by both sides. Treat it as a firm agreement, and check it carefully. Legal advice is worth taking for larger deals.

Who writes the deal memo?

Usually the artist's agent, though some promoters issue their own. Both sides should check it against the accepted offer.

Why not go straight to a contract?

Contracts take time to draft and check. A deal memo locks the main terms in quickly so marketing and planning can start without waiting weeks.

Related terms