if one of my friends owned a restaurant, they'd probably be offering me free food. id be too uncomfortable just asking for it, but i mean, if they offer it, id eat it.
I know this shit so well. Whenever I play shows and whenever I release a song i'm always asked for free entrance or drinks or if i can just send them the song so they can "listen to it later". My friends have offered payment in "exposure" more times than i'vem considered dumping em as friends.
True friends will pay full price, to support you, your time and your work.
Its a side project of mine:)