Just becuase somebody is a performer, that doesn't give them the right to play at a club.
Very often, the organiser has to put on who they beleive will entertain their audience.
I don't think CD's always sell a performer. I think you have to see them live to see if they have the charisma as well. I have listened to a lot of Cd's and generally the style of the performer does not suit the style of my club. However if they are in my area, I make an effort to get to see them. There are a number of people who I have gone on to book, when having listend to their CD it did nothimng for me.
What amazes me, is that so many people say that a performer is crap, when in actual fact they are not, but obviously do not suit their style.
I have seen a lot of performers who I personally do not like and wouldn't book them for my club, but I can say in all cases they are very good performers, but do not feel they will suit the style of the club.
Likewise there are some performers who I would like top get, but in all honesty cannot afford them. I do not work and in all honesty cannot take on the risk of any loss personnally.
I pay a fixed rate and do not do percentage. That way I know what I have to recover and the performer doesn't get hurt if there aren't enough people at the gig.