Pearl Jam Stands Firm Against Ticketmaster, Alters Tour Plans

Strategic Insights -

Pearl Jam's insistence on bypassing Ticketmaster for ticket sales has led to a modified tour itinerary, with the band opting out of traditional rock-concert venues in the eastern United States. The decision has resulted in novel logistical challenges, as the band has had to provide essential infrastructure for outdoor performances. Despite the hurdles, Pearl Jam's commitment to avoiding Ticketmaster remains unwavering, citing the company's allegedly monopoly-prone business practices.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pearl Jam has opted out of using Ticketmaster for ticket sales, instead choosing to work with ETM Entertainment Network for the first 15 shows on its current tour.
  • The band is paying for the costs associated with providing infrastructure for outdoor performances, including electricity and fences, due to the lack of existing contracts with these venues.
  • Pearl Jam's tour plans have been altered to accommodate the decision, with no scheduled shows in the eastern United States.
  • The band's manager, Kelly Curtis, stated that playing existing venues with contracts with Ticketmaster would be their preferred option.
  • The band's singer, Eddie Vedder, addressed the sold-out audience at Wolf Mountain, emphasizing the importance of safety and promising to return and play longer sets.
  • A 1993 dispute with Ticketmaster over service charges led to a Justice Department investigation and Congressional hearings, with the band accusing the company of being a monopoly.
  • ETM Entertainment Network's service charge is $2, plus 45 cents per transaction, on top of a $20 base price, with additional charges including a $1.50 parking charge and a 50-cent tax at Wolf Mountain.
  • The misunderstanding about Ticketmaster's involvement in the tour arose due to a last-minute change in venue from the Del Mar Fair to the San Diego Sports Arena, which has an exclusive contract with Ticketmaster.

Statistics:

  • The band has paid for liability insurance and provided infrastructure, including electricity and fences, for outdoor performances (exact costs not specified).
  • The service charge for tickets distributed by ETM Entertainment Network is $2, plus 45 cents per transaction, totaling $2.45 per ticket.
  • The band has experienced safety concerns, with rain knocking out the sound system at Wolf Mountain and cold temperatures posing a risk to hypothermia.
  • The two San Diego shows were moved from the Del Mar Fair to the San Diego Sports Arena, which has an exclusive contract with Ticketmaster.
  • The two tour shows in San Diego were already sold out prior to the venue change.

Sources:

  • The New York Times