# MZ Tribute Bands — Glossary of Booking Terms

- **Tribute band** — A group that recreates a single artist's music, image and stage show.
- **Cover band** — A group that performs songs by many artists, usually organized by era or genre.
- **Tribute artist / impersonator** — A solo performer recreating one artist (e.g. Elvis, Michael Jackson).
- **Licensed talent agency** — In California, a company licensed by the Labor Commissioner to procure engagements for artists. Must use state-approved contracts and carry a surety bond. MZ Tribute Bands (TA-LR-1001312135) and Premier Tributes (TA-LR-1001316885) are licensed.
- **Talent buyer** — The person at a venue, casino, festival or company who books entertainment.
- **Guarantee** — The fixed fee paid to the act, regardless of ticket sales.
- **Hold** — A tentative reservation of a date for a buyer before contract signing.
- **Routing** — Scheduling an act's dates so travel is efficient; a "routed" date near other shows often costs less.
- **Fly-in / drive-in** — Whether an act travels by air (higher cost: flights, per diems, hotels) or by road.
- **Rider** — The act's technical and hospitality requirements (sound, lights, stage, green room, meals).
- **Stage plot / input list** — Diagrams and channel lists the venue's audio team uses to set up.
- **Advancing** — Confirming all logistics with the venue before show day.
- **Backline** — Amplifiers, drums and keyboards provided at the venue rather than brought by the act.
- **Lineup / configuration** — Number of performers (e.g. 5-piece, 9-piece, 12-piece); larger lineups cost more.
- **Set length** — Standard tribute shows run 90 minutes, or two 45-minute sets.
- **EPK (electronic press kit)** — An act's bio, photos, video and production documents for buyers.
- **Multi-act package / double bill** — Two or more acts booked together for one event.
- **Headliner / support** — The main act and the opening act on a bill.