Reports have surfaced alleging that Live Nation is engaging in negotiations with the U.S. government in an effort to circumvent a challenging antitrust trial with the Department of Justice (DOJ). This has ignited a strong backlash from industry advocates, including the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) and the Ticket Policy Forum Coalition.
Brian Berry, Executive Director of the Ticket Policy Forum Coalition, emphasized the need for accountability, stating that the DOJ and state attorneys general should continue pursuing the case in court. He highlighted that Live Nation holds a staggering 80% of the primary ticketing market and restricts access to up to 90% of tickets, which has led to lawsuits from 40 states, including prominent ones like New York and California. Berry criticized Live Nation for allegedly employing lobbyists to negotiate a deal behind the scenes, instead of addressing the serious issues at trial.
“Fans across the nation are eagerly waiting for a Justice Department that is not swayed by Live Nation’s influence to rein in this monopoly. State officials can and should continue to pursue legal action to protect consumers against a company that has stifled competition and inflated prices,” said Berry.
The concerns raised are not new, as similar sentiments were echoed during a recent congressional hearing, where NIVA Executive Director Stephen Parker accused Live Nation of undermining the legal process. He argued that an antitrust conviction could pave the way for healthier competition in the live events industry, which has been dominated by Live Nation since its merger with Ticketmaster 16 years ago.
Parker further criticized Live Nation’s CEO Dan Wall for allegedly misrepresenting the company’s intentions during the congressional testimony. He reiterated that simply reaching a settlement would not equate to justice for independent venues, artists, and fans, emphasizing that the only resolution is the breakup of the company to restore competition in ticketing and live performances.
Both advocates concluded their statements by urging the White House, the DOJ, and state attorneys general to remain steadfast and resist Live Nation’s attempts at political maneuvering, stressing that the American public deserves an end to the company’s dominance and exploitation in the industry.