How Musicians Can Play Charity Gigs (and Grow Their Fans)

Playing a benefit show can do more for your career than another bar gig. You reach a new crowd, you get filmed and shared, and you meet the venues and brands that book live music.

Singer and guitarist performing at a Beats for Relief rooftop show
A Beats for Relief rooftop show in Barcelona
The short version
  1. Find shows that fit your sound
  2. Ask the right questions before you say yes
  3. Pick a cause you can talk about
  4. Bring your fans
  5. Collect content from the night
  6. Follow up with the venue

01Find the right shows

Look for nonprofits, hotels and cultural spaces that already host events. Collectives like Beats for Relief match artists with venues and causes, so you do not have to pitch each one yourself.

02Ask the right questions before you say yes

Who is the audience? How many people are expected? Is there a fee or travel cover? Will the night be filmed?

A cause is a great reason to play. It should not mean playing with no sound check or no audience.
Saxophonist performing in front of the Beats for Relief logo
Band with trumpet playing an intimate Beats for Relief show

03Pick a cause you can talk about

You will be asked why you are playing. A short, honest answer from the stage connects you with the room and makes the night memorable.

04Bring your fans

Share the event on your channels. Your fans help the cause, and the organizers will want you back.

05Collect what the night gives you

Ask for photos and video. Tag the venue, the nonprofit and the organizer. Collect emails with a QR code on stage. One good night can give you content for weeks.

Duo performing to a packed room at a Beats for Relief fundraiser
A full room at our Brazil flood relief fundraiser

06Follow up with the venue

Send a thank you to the venue manager. Many paid bookings start at a benefit show.

Want the bigger picture? Read why supporting local artists matters more than ever.

Frequently asked questions

Do musicians get paid for charity gigs?

It depends. Some events pay a fee, some cover travel or costs. At Beats for Relief we believe artists should be valued, so ask before you agree.

Can comedians and other performers play charity gigs too?

Yes. We have produced comedy nights, including a sold-out Laughs for Relief show headlined by Michelle Wolf, plus art and wellness events.

How do I get booked for a Beats for Relief charity gig?

Apply through our Perform With Us page with links to your music or videos.

For artists

Why artists play with Beats for Relief

We book the venue, bring the audience and handle the cause partnership, so you can focus on the show. You play to a new crowd, leave with photos and video, and meet the venues that book live music.

500+events
10countries
15years
€150K+raised

Past stages have featured talent like Michelle Wolf and St. Lucia, in hotels and cultural spaces across Europe and the US.

Apply to performSee how it works
Tia Einarsen