City council moves to establish minimum pay rates for NOLA musicians

New Orleans is known as "The Big Easy" for the ease in which musicians can book gigs. The president and vice-president of the New Orleans City Council announced Thursday that if it is the city of New Orleans doing the booking, then there needs to be a standard payment rate for working musicians.

The proposed ordinance says any musical act paid with city funds would be paid a minimum of $200 per musician, and bands with ten musicians or more will be paid at least $2,000. It also says these are just minimums and nothing would preclude a city agency from paying more, nor would it preclude the city from paying additional money, at an agreed-upon rate, for non-musician members of bands such as technical crews.

"We talk a big game when it comes to respecting and honoring music in our city, but today, we turn those words into action by ensuring the City pays a fair market wage whenever employing musicians for events," said Council President Moreno. "Not only will this mean more money in those musicians’ pockets, but it also sets a critical example for others when employing our musicians."

"Despite our rich tradition of musical excellence, today's working musicians are struggling to make ends meet in our Crescent City," said Council Vice President Morrell. "If we are going to continue to be the music city that we are known for, we need to make sure artists can make a living."

The proposed ordinance is based on a similar law in Austin, Texas. The council's Economic Development Committee will take it up July 17.