I’m a Western European male living in rural Japan. I am a musician. Once a month I play in a friend’s bar, doing a full night of 3 sets from 8 until midnight.
I offered to play there. I’ve played there 10 times now.
The issue: he won’t pay me. At first I don’t mind. But now it is terribly obvious to me he is doing well out of the arrangement. On the nights I play he is busy from open until 1. Usually he is not. I bring my own audience as well.
I am sure the issue is because of me. I offered to play. My wife is even on his side saying that in Japan I am considered an amateur musician. (In my own country I play and get around $300/night for a similar gig and I play those about 10 times a year when I am back).
Is this just the way it is in Japan? Could I go to other bars and get paid?
by That-Ride6149