Why is Live Nation's CEO facing backlash?

Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino claimed that concert tickets are "underpriced" compared to other forms of entertainment, sparking outrage from fans.

How have concert ticket prices changed in recent years?

According to the article, ticket prices for the top 100 tours rose more than 30% in 2024, averaging $130 per ticket - a 9% jump in a single year.

What is Live Nation's argument for higher ticket prices?

Rapino and other Live Nation executives argue that the booming resale market, where tickets often trade at multiples of their face value, proves fans are willing to pay more for concerts.

Home / Business and Economy / Live Nation CEO Defends Surging Concert Ticket Prices as "Undervalued"

Live Nation CEO Defends Surging Concert Ticket Prices as "Undervalued"

30 Sep

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Summary

Live Nation CEO claims concert tickets are "underpriced" compared to other entertainment
Ticket prices for top tours rose over 30% in 2024, averaging $130 per ticket
Fans blast CEO's comments as "out of touch" and making live music a "luxury"

Live Nation CEO Defends Surging Concert Ticket Prices as "Undervalued"

In a recent statement, Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino sparked a furor among concert fans by claiming that concert tickets are currently "underpriced." Rapino argued that the average concert price of $72 is still too low compared to the demand, using the example of courtside NBA tickets costing $70,000 as a benchmark.

However, Rapino's comments have been met with widespread backlash from both casual listeners and dedicated fans. Many pointed to the steadily rising costs of live music, with ticket prices for the top 100 tours increasing by over 30% in 2024 to an average of $130 per ticket. This 9% jump in a single year has made concerts less accessible, with fans blasting Rapino's remarks as "out of touch" and a sign that live music is becoming a "luxury" few can afford.