My pet peeve is an otherwise worthwhile organization who asks us to play gratis. I think, "well, it's a cause I'd like to support; and it sounds like it might be a good time," and I say yes. Then they say, "And, oh, as long as you're coming, would you mind bringing your sound system? And I'm sure you won't mind if the other band that's playing after you uses it? And if we borrow it for a couple of speeches?" OK, I'm exaggerating - a little. But I have an iron clad rule now: Play for free if the cause is worth it and the gig sounds like fun. But seven times never do the sound for free.

Peter.