The costly tune of live music poses a significant question: Are music fans being priced out of the experience? The allure of live music concerts has always been undeniable – the crowd’s energy, the anticipation before the artist takes the stage, and the euphoria of hearing your favorite songs in person. However, over the years, a significant shift has occurred in the music industry, particularly in the realm of concert ticket prices. For many, what used to be a relatively affordable form of entertainment has transformed into a luxury reserved for those with deep pockets. Let’s delve into the reasons behind the rising cost of music concerts and explore whether being a music fan now requires a substantial financial investment.
The Evolution of Music Concerts
In the not-so-distant past, attending a music concert was an accessible activity for people of various income levels. Tickets were reasonably priced, and fans could experience the magic of live performances without breaking the bank. According to Dartmouth, the Average ticket prices have tripled since the mid-’90s, even before resellers buy them out. The price influx reflects the raised expectations from fans, who now anticipate elaborate productions as the standard for tours.
Let’s look at Michael Jackson. In 1992 he set out on the Dangerous World Tour, one of the biggest tours in history, including air time on HBO. Though it’s hard to find any direct information on ticket costs during that time, if we look at pictures of other countries’ tickets, and we consider that the average ticket cost in the 90’s was just under $26, we can estimate that his US ticket cost was somewhere in the $25 Ish range. That’s the equivalent of $45 dollars by today’s standards. Fast forward to now, and in the US, the average ticket price is around $95. Take the Beyoncé Renaissance Tour, for example, general ticket prices are roughly as low as $157.00 (could become lower if resellers need to offload tickets), and for decent seats, $350. But if you want that VIP treatment, she has 5 package options
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Club Renaissance Experience — ~$889
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BeyHive VIP Package — ~$1,401 to $1,902
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Alien Superstar Riser — ~$1,834 to $2,001
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Pure/Honey On Stage Risers — ~$2,501 to $3,757
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Pure/Honey On Stage Risers: Front Row Experience — ~$4,001 to $4,939
As the music industry evolved, so did the dynamics of live concerts. The emergence of digital platforms and streaming services altered revenue streams for artists and record labels. As a result, live performances became an increasingly vital source of income for musicians.
The Business of Live Music
Behind the scenes, organizing and promoting live music events has grown more complex and expensive. Concert venues have upgraded their facilities to offer enhanced experiences, including better sound quality and visually captivating stage setups. Additionally, the cost of marketing and advertising for these events has surged as organizers compete to grab the attention of potential concert-goers. The high expenses associated with booking top-tier artists, providing top-notch security, and ensuring an immersive concert environment contribute to the overall rise in ticket prices. Not to mention fans want to see all the bells and whistles. The music is great, but fans want an experience to accompany it, which increases ticket prices.
Premium Experiences
The demand for premium concert experiences has also influenced ticket pricing. Many artists now offer VIP packages that grant fans exclusive access, such as meet-and-greet opportunities, early entry, and merchandise. While these packages cater to die-hard fans willing to pay a premium, they can create a perception that attending a concert requires your whole life savings, so to speak. Let’s look at what comes with the VIP package for the Renaissance Tour.
PURE/HONEY ON STAGE RISERS: FRONT ROW EXPERIENCE
- BAD B*TCHES to the left. MONEY B*TCHES to the right! Experience the RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR (RWT) with a front-row seat on either PURE/HONEY RISER (BAD B*TCHES (SIDE A) or MONEY B*TCHES (SIDE B))
- Dedicated restroom & bar for PURE/HONEY guests with cash bar, beer, wine, and signature cocktails! (2 drink tokens included)
- One VIP parking space per order or ride-share voucher
- Limited edition RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR VIP gift item
- Official RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR VIP laminate
- Fast pass to RWT merchandise
- RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR Photo Opp
- VIP concierge team and onsite hosts
PURE/HONEY ON STAGE RISERS
- BAD B*TCHES to the left. MONEY B*TCHES to the right! Experience the RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR (RWT) on either PURE/HONEY RISER (BAD B*TCHES (SIDE A) or MONEY B*TCHES (SIDE B))
- Dedicated restroom & bar for PURE/HONEY guests with cash bar including beer, wine, and signature cocktails! (2 drink tokens included)
- One VIP parking space per order or ride-share voucher
- Limited edition RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR VIP gift item
- Official RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR VIP laminate
- Fast pass to RWT merchandise
- RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR Photo Opp
- VIP concierge team and onsite hosts
ALIEN SUPERSTAR RISER
- Experience the RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR (RWT) on the ALIEN SUPERSTAR RISER with an unobstructed UNIQUE view of the RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR.
- Dedicated restroom & bar for ALIEN SUPERSTAR Riser guests with cash bar including beer, wine, and specialty cocktails! (2 drink tokens included)
- One VIP parking space per order or ride-share voucher
- Limited edition RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR VIP gift item
- Official RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR VIP laminate
- Fast pass to RWT merchandise
- RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR Photo Opp
- VIP concierge team and onsite hosts
BEYHIVE VIP PACKAGE
- One general admission ticket to the BEYHIVE Pit (BEYHIVE A or BEYHIVE B)
- Limited edition RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR VIP gift item
- Official RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR VIP laminate
- Early entry into the venue
- RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR Photo Opp*
- VIP concierge team and onsite hosts
CLUB RENAISSANCE EXPERIENCE
- Immerse yourself in CLUB RENAISSANCE at the
CLUB RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR. - Access to the CLUB RENAISSANCE cash bar*
- Specialty-designed CLUB RENAISSANCE gift item
- CLUB RENAISSANCE VIP wristband granting early entry into the venue
- VIP concierge team and onsite hosts
Resellers
The rise of secondary ticket markets has added another layer to the cost of attending concerts. Resale platforms allow individuals to resell their tickets at often inflated prices, taking advantage of the high demand for popular shows. This practice further drives up ticket costs, leaving many fans frustrated by the lack of affordable options.
Preserving Music Experiences
It’s important to note that efforts are being made to preserve accessible music experiences. Some artists and promoters strive to keep ticket prices reasonable, recognizing the significance of connecting with a diverse range of fans. Additionally, community events and smaller-scale concerts provide alternatives for those seeking live music on a budget.
Consider These Tips Before Buying Tickets
- Who is performing?
Beyoncé and an up-and-coming rapper will not have the same ticket prices. - Where is the concert taking place?
Look around at the different venues where an artist will perform in your general area and see which offers the most affordable prices. - When is the concert?
Many concerts take place in the summer you might save money going on the right month or day. - How far in advance are you buying concert tickets?
There is something to be said about buying concert tickets well in advance. You can get a great deal and ensure you don’t miss out on concert tickets. Though I know some people live by securing great prices on concert tickets by waiting until the very last minute.
Do You Got To Be Rich?
The average household income in the 90s was around 27k; in 2020, it was around 67k, an actual decrease from 2019, but the pandemic was thriving around this time. So who knows, a close to $30 ticket in the 90s could’ve felt like a lot compared to now. While there are valid reasons for the increased expense, it’s crucial for there to be a balance between financial sustainability and ensuring that live music remains an inclusive part of our culture. Concerts allow people from all walks of life to unite, celebrate their love for music, and create unforgettable memories. As years pass, the cost of living increases. Unfortunately, this will continue to happen. There’s no way in 2023 a major artist will charge $15 at the door unless they are willing to eat the cost of expenses regardless of venue size to allow anybody on the financial spectrum to come.
In 2023 I don’t think you have to be rich to attend a lavish concert, but affordability comes down to the kind of experience you want. For example, do you care if you have a view of the stage? Do you care if you’re far away from the stage? If the financial strain were bad, these artists wouldn’t be selling out venues, and last I check, they’re selling out left and right! I’m speaking to you, Beyonce, Taylor, and Drake. At the end of the day, ticket prices have increased. If you feel like you might not get to attend a concert due to the price increase. Consider the kind of experience you want, consider the tips in this article, and maybe saving up to get the tickets you desire.
