Live & Touring

Ticketmaster and Live Nation Unlikely To Renew Deal

Ticketmaster
"… we now believe it is doubtful we will extend our agreement when it expires at the end of 2008. Live Nation has been a valued client for a very long time and we believe we’ve taken every reasonable step possible to facilitate a renewal, but they seem intent on a direction for their business that leaves us no viable way to work together."

In recent months Live Nation has been expanding its ticketing options with the purchase of MusicToday and an online push to have more direct contact with fans. The company alos own several smaller ticketingLivenation221205 services like NEXT in New England. In the end, the split is as much about the control of consumer data and developing a more direct relationship with the fans as it is about the $100-$150 million per year earned in Tickermaster fees for Live Nation Events.

Live Nation accounts for 15-17% of Tickermaster’s $1billIon yearly revenue.  Concert goers fans don’t care who they buy their tickets from, but there could be backlash if Live Nation chooses to pocket the ticket fees rather passing some savings on to consumers.

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5 Comments

  1. “Concert goers fans don’t care who they buy their tickets from[…]”
    I disagree. I personally can’t stand buying tickets from Ticketmaster. I feel trapped in that I barely have a choice. I have found purchasing tickets off local vendors a better experience, primarily for the lack of outrageous fees.

  2. “Concert goers fans don’t care who they buy their tickets from[…]”
    Not true at all. I DO NOT, under any circumstance, buy tickets to an event through TIcketmaster. I’d rather buy the tickets from someone on craigslist who paid the awful TIcketmaster fees and is selling the tickets under face value. It is sad that many times Ticketmaster seems like your only choice. Look into it. Many times you can purchase tickets through an artists fan club pre-sale that is not through TIcketmaster.

  3. This is a big deal that could open the doors for artist to fan direct ticketing via Live Nation/ Music Today. The old Tmaster model is no longer valid. Any artist can offer e-ticketing and or websales for about $1-$3 per ticket. TM no longer has the technology advantage.
    Don’t expect ticket fees to go away though – Live Nation and any other will need to charge something – let’s hope it will be less then the 25 – 40% being pilfered today.
    What would you say if your local ATM took $40 from the $100 cash withdrawl…. how about starting with WTF!!!!

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