Artist care means:
Professionalism.
Safety.
Respect.
If FLINTA* artists don’t feel safe, they can’t fully focus on their work. Promoters, in turn, shape the environment in which artists perform.
Artist Care before the event
Clear Communication
- Ask for and respect pronouns from the beginning
- Share full event details (venue, timetable, technical setup, itinerary)
- Assign a dedicated contact person so the artist has one clear point of communication
- Communicate awareness policies and safety measures in advance
Clarity = Safety.
Travel & Accommodation
For international bookings, a calm & quiet accommodation should be provided to ensure the artist has a space to rest & prepare.
No private host stays, unless explicitly preferred by the artist. Accommodation should be safe & professional, ideally a hotel.
Organized transport with reliable pickup & drop-off: No intoxicated driver, ideally a taxi.
Artist Care – During the event
Backstage:
- Ensure controlled access to the area to prevent unwanted interactions
- Communicate clear boundaries and any special needs of the artist to avoid uncomfortable situations
- Foster a supportive atmosphere where artists feel comfortable speaking up
- Provide access to a backstage toilet and ensure inclusive toilet options for all, both backstage and across the entire event (avoid “ladies” vs. “gents” signage)
The backstage is not a VIP lounge, it’s a workplace. It should feel safe, not draining: A calm space to prepare and focus.
Technical & Basic Care:
- Proper soundcheck with reliable, functioning equipment
- A technician available any time
- Do not explain DJ equipment or comment music choices (unless the artist explicitly asks)
- Leave enough space in the booth (no extra people, unless invited by the artist)
- Provide water & basic hospitality
- Stick to clear set times (no last-minute changes)
Before interacting with the artist, ask yourself: Is this respectful, professional, and appropriate?
Equal standards mean respect for the artistry.
Awareness & Protection
Clearly communicate a zero-tolerance policy against sexism, queerphobia, and racism; and enforce it!
Have a security concept, that is thought through in advance.
In case of harassment immediate action and clear responsibilities are required.
The awareness team should be trained, visible, and approachable.
Artist Care – after the event
- For all artists, provide a safe ride home or back to the hotel (no intoxicated driver)
- No artist should be left alone after the gig (offer company, while respecting their wishes if they prefer not to)
- On-time payment for every artist regardless of status or agency representation
- Always ask for feedback, if there is anything you could improve
Care doesn’t stop when the lights turn on.
Strong Artist Care…
… builds trust.
… improves performance quality.
… strengthens community reputation.
… supports long-term diversity.
… contributes to the success of the whole night.
Inclusive structures are not optional, they’re part of professional event management.
What would you add to this list? What’s missing? And what are your experiences?
This is an ongoing process, let’s keep updating and improving these standards together.
push-Network 