According to the complaint, the company leverages its control over 80% of major US concert venues’ ticketing via Ticketmaster
A landmark antitrust trial against Live Nation began this week in New York with jury selection. The case has the DOJ and 39 states seeking to dismantle what they allege is an illegal monopoly over the live music industry.
According to the complaint, the company controls 80% of the ticketing for major US concert venues through Ticketmaster. It also manages more than 400 artists and owns or controls over 265 venues in North America.
The lawsuit argues Live Nation’s dominance leads to inflated fees for fans and fewer choices for artists. Consumer frustration grew in 2022 when Ticketmaster canceled ticket sales for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour due to extraordinary demand.
High-profile figures, including musician Kid Rock, Mumford & Sons keyboardist Ben Lovett, and Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino, are expected to testify during the projected six-week trial.