Ep. 74: Should I Take The Gig If It Doesn't Pay?

Melissa Cartwright
Jun 18
3 min read

If you’ve been performing for a while, or even just getting your feet wet, you’ve probably had one of those should-I-or-shouldn’t-I moments when a gig comes your way… but it doesn’t pay.

Whether it’s an open mic, a showcase, or a community event, these offers can be tricky to navigate. Are they great exposure? A waste of your energy? A stepping stone? Or just someone hoping to get your talent for free?

Let’s break this down together, so you can feel more confident about when to say yes - and when to pass.

Start by Listening to Your Body (Seriously)

Your body often knows what’s up before your brain does. If the idea of taking a certain gig gives you that weird tight feeling in your chest or your stomach turns into knots, pay attention.

That doesn’t always mean “don’t do it”—sometimes nerves are just part of the deal—but it might be your body waving a red flag, saying: “Hey, I don’t think this is fair.” “We’ve done this before and it didn’t feel great.” “I’m tired and this might be too much.”

Bottom line: if it feels off, pause and check in with yourself.

What’s This Gig Really Gonna Cost You?

Sure, it’s unpaid—but there are other costs, too.

Are you giving up time with family or rest you desperately need?
Will it drain your energy or your voice?
Will you leave the gig feeling proud… or a little resentful?

Even if the price tag says $0, your time, talent, and emotional bandwidth are always part of the equation. Don't ignore them.

The Truth About Open Mics

Open mics can be great when you're starting out, testing new material, or just want to share your voice in a low-pressure space. Plenty of arts organizations offer wonderful and supportive opportunities for this kind of growth (and we do seasonal online open mic nights inside of the Passionate Performer Program!).

But if the venue hosting the event is a for sale establishment, like a restaurant, brewery, coffeehouse, winery, etc. - is it just free entertainment for a venue that doesn’t want to pay performers? And if you're pouring out your heart every week with no real growth, no connection, and no progress - it might be time to reevaluate.

Ask yourself: Is this helping me grow as an artist? Or am I stuck in a loop because it’s easy, familiar, or expected?

Some Reflection Questions To Help You Decide

Here are a few things to ask yourself when you're on the fence about a gig:

If it’s not a hell yes… is it a no? That lukewarm feeling? It’s trying to tell you something.
How would I feel if someone else got this opportunity? A little jealousy might actually mean your heart’s in it. Or… you might feel relieved it’s not yours. Either way, that’s good data.
What will I have to say no to if I say yes to this? Your time and energy are finite. Make sure the trade is worth it.
What is my body saying right now? Fear is normal. But dread? Exhaustion? Tightness in your throat or jaw? That’s something else.
Does this bring me closer to my dream performance? Even unpaid gigs can be valuable stepping stones - but only if they’re pointing in the direction you want to go.

Celebrate Your Worth

Here's the truth: You can love your craft deeply and still want to get paid for it.

You can say no to a free gig and still be a passionate, generous artist.

Being selective doesn't make you selfish. It makes you smart.

You deserve to show up in spaces that respect your time, your energy, and your voice.

You’re Allowed to Choose You

At the end of the day, saying yes or no to an unpaid gig isn’t just about money - it’s about alignment. Does this opportunity serve your growth, your goals, and your joy?

If not? That’s okay. Your worth isn’t tied to every "yes" you say. You’re allowed to be discerning. You’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to protect your passion.

Let’s keep making music that reflects who we really are, and shows up with the respect and energy we truly deserve. Need more support figuring this all out? I’ve got you! Come hang with us inside the Passionate Performer Program, or grab your free 7 Days to the Stage Journal HERE, and start aligning your gigs with what truly lights you up.

We’re in this together. RESOURCES mentioned in this episode: The Body Keeps the Score – Bessel van der Kolk, M.D. The Wisdom of Your Body – Hilary L. McBride, PhD Honestly, Dear Listener Podcast episode