Neil Young has announced a significant change to his concert ticket sales policy in a statement published on Neil Young Archives. His decision stems from ongoing efforts to protect fans from excessive ticket pricing and scalping practices.
“My management and agent have always tried to cover my back on the road, getting me the best deals they could. They have tried to protect me and my fans from the scalpers who buy the best tickets and resell them at huge increases for their own profits,” Young stated.
“Ticketmaster’s High priced Platinum tickets were introduced to the areas where scalpers were buying the most tickets for resale. The money went to me. That did not feel right,” he continued. “Very soon, PLATINUM Tickets will no longer be available for my shows.”
Young referenced The Cure’s recent actions against ticket scalping and encouraged fans to be proactive during initial ticket sales. “I have decided to let the people work this out. Buy aggressively when the tickets come out or tickets will cost a lot more in a secondary market… Try to read this following story about Robert Smith ‘The Cure’, and what they did. I think it was right,” he concluded.
This decision represents a significant shift in concert ticketing practices. Recent industry-wide discussions about fair pricing and accessibility have influenced this change.
The Cure’s Influence
Consequence reveals that Robert Smith and The Cure’s successful stance against dynamic pricing inspired Young’s decision. The band proved that artists could maintain profitability while offering affordable tickets.
The Cure maintained an average ticket price of $68.54. This price point was substantially lower than comparable tours, yet the band achieved record-breaking revenue.
Impact On Upcoming Tours
The Shields Gazette notes that the policy change takes immediate effect for Young’s upcoming ‘Love Earth World Tour.’ Ticket sales began last month.
The new pricing strategy challenges the industry-standard dynamic pricing model. It places fan accessibility ahead of maximized profits.
Industry Implications
Far Out Magazine highlights how Young’s decision could prompt other artists to reevaluate their ticketing strategies.
This initiative joins a growing movement of artists fighting ticket scalping. Their efforts may reshape how the concert industry approaches ticket pricing.
