Live Nation

Live Nation: The Comedy, Chaos, and Controversies of Australia’s Music Scene!

🎤 Was it really a comedy dream or a ticketing nightmare? Join us for a laugh as we dive into Live Nation’s world of tour tricks, legal lingo, and musical mystery!

As Australia’s live comedy and music scene continues to thrive, one name looms large over the landscape: Live Nation. The influential company is currently on a quest to find a seasoned Comedy Promoter who knows the ins and outs of the comedy touring world. With their finger on the pulse of what makes audiences laugh, Live Nation’s new hire will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of comedy in the country. But with their powerful presence in the market, how does this impact local talent and smaller venues?

The inquiry into Live Nation's practices doesn't stop at comedy; the broader live music scene is under scrutiny as well. A law firm is investigating potential class action lawsuits against Ticketmaster and Live Nation, alleging deceptive and misleading conduct. These claims have sparked debates about ticket pricing, hidden fees, and the ethics of the ticketing industry. Live Nation CEO Michael Coppel has stepped up to the plate, vehemently denying allegations that the company is responsible for the challenges faced by the Australian music industry today. Could the pressure from legal challenges and industry critiques affect how Australians experience live performances?

Current investigations, like the one conducted by Four Corners, highlight Live Nation's overwhelming influence on Australia’s live entertainment market. Critics argue that the company's tight grip is squeezing out local operators, making it increasingly difficult for smaller venues and independent promoters to survive. This has raised concerns among experts who are urging the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to step in before it’s too late, warning that without intervention, vibrant local music scenes could face extinction. In a twist of fate, the upcoming release of Oasis tickets has been tainted with discussions about these hidden fees and the overall ticket purchasing experience.

In the midst of all these industry tumult, don't forget to mark your calendars because ticket sales for Oasis—yes, the iconic Brit rockers—will open soon, making waves despite the chaos. And here’s a juicy tidbit: did you know that less than 30% of seats sold at live events are considered ‘general admission’? Most venues play a game of musical chairs when it comes to ticketing! So, while we wade through controversies, let's hope a good laugh and exhilarating live shows are not lost in the noise!

Fun fact: Did you know that Live Nation’s revenue from ticket sales in Australia hit over AUD 100 million in 2022? That’s a lot of laughing! And speaking of gigs, Australian comedian Adam Hills is known for his quick wit and was once a ticket seller for a rock band. Talk about a full circle moment!