Is the age of the affordable concert over?
The thrill of live music, once a relatively accessible experience, is increasingly becoming a luxury reserved for the privileged few. Soaring ticket prices are pricing out a significant portion of the population, transforming a cherished cultural experience into an unattainable dream for many. We know because we experienced it first hand as we queued (virtually) for the Cowboy Carter tickets only to find we may have to consider selling a kidney if we would like to join the Beyonce experience.
Several factors contribute to this escalating cost. Firstly, the rise of “dynamic pricing” – where ticket prices fluctuate based on demand – has significantly inflated costs. Algorithms analyse demand in real-time, adjusting prices accordingly. This means that highly anticipated tours, like Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter gig and Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s grand national tour, see ticket prices skyrocket, often exceeding hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.
Secondly, the pervasive influence of consumerism has fuelled this trend. Artists, recognizing the immense profit potential, are naturally incentivized to maximize revenue. Stadium tours, extravagant stage productions, and high-priced VIP packages have become the norm, with costs passed on to the consumer.
The secondary market, dominated by ticket scalpers and resale platforms, further exacerbates the issue. Scalpers utilise bots to snatch up large blocks of tickets, often through automated means, and then resell them at exorbitant prices on platforms like StubHub and Vivid Seats. This practice not only inflates prices but also deprives genuine fans of the opportunity to purchase tickets at face value.
The consequences of these factors are far-reaching. Young people, who have historically been the driving force behind live music, are increasingly being priced out of the market. This not only limits their access to cultural experiences but also threatens the long-term sustainability of the live music industry. As ticket prices continue to climb, the risk of alienating a significant portion of the music-loving public becomes increasingly real.
While artists have the right to maximize their earnings, the current system disproportionately benefits the wealthy and disenfranchises a significant portion of the population. This raises important questions about accessibility, equity, and the role of live music in society.
Moving forward, it is crucial to explore alternative models that prioritize fan access over profit maximization. This could include measures such as:
- Implementing stricter regulations on ticket resale platforms: To curb the activities of scalpers and ensure fair access for genuine fans.
- Promoting fan-to-fan ticket exchanges: Creating safe and regulated platforms for fans to buy and sell tickets directly to each other at fair prices.
- Implementing price caps or tiered ticketing systems: To make live music more accessible to a wider range of audiences.
- Supporting independent venues: To foster a more diverse and accessible live music ecosystem.
Ultimately, ensuring the long-term health of the live music industry requires a balanced approach that prioritizes both the financial interests of artists and the accessibility of live music for all. By addressing the root causes of rising ticket prices and prioritizing fan experience, we can work towards a future where live music remains an accessible and enjoyable experience for all. Sources and related content
