when you get down to the core point of this thread, it's very informative. I don't have any serious aspirations to be a touring musician but I never in a million years would've thought that mainstream artists could get away with paying their backers $200 a week. If it's money you're after than be aware that accepting deals for $200 a week ain't gonna get you there. If you're in it for any other reason then keep that as your focus. I'm not the best musician out there and I don't claim to be great but I know my value; and the sweet Lawd Jesus is the only famous person that can get away with paying me $200 a week to tour, but I guess it all depends on what "you" value more.
I've just learned that everyone famous ain't looking out for your best interest so you darn well better. And just because somebody is assumed to have big money doesn't mean that they're gonna come off their paper to get what they want out of you. I say brand yourself and determine your own worth and purpose. If you do that can't nobody tell you you ain't happy, even making $200 a week.