What happens when billion-dollar executives decide concert tickets aren't expensive enough? The answer might explain why your favorite bands are disappearing from the road.
In this candid solo episode, I dive deep into the economics of concert tickets after Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino's controversial statement that tickets have been "underpriced for too long." Breaking down exactly where your money goes when you buy a $100 concert ticket reveals a shocking truth – artists often walk away with just $8 per ticket, while venues and ticketing services take the lion's share. This explains why bands like Garbage have announced they'll no longer tour extensively in the US, citing "unmanageable" economics.
Beyond the financial breakdown, I explore the different ways we experience live music – solo, with friends, or as an observer watching someone else connect with an artist for the first time. Each approach offers unique rewards, from the freedom of attending alone to the shared memories created with companions. There's something magical about standing in a room full of strangers who've come together through music, regardless of their differences.
The episode wraps with my summer 2025 playlist featuring standout tracks from Liam Finn, Paul Schalda, Viagra Boys, Wolf Alice, Nine Inch Nails, and Turnstile – artists who remind us why we fight to keep live music accessible despite rising costs.
Whether you're a casual concertgoer or a dedicated touring fan, this conversation tackles the hard questions about the future of live music in an industry that increasingly prioritizes profits over passion. How long before we're all priced out of the experiences that make us feel alive?
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