Live Nation Entertainment has just rolled out a game-changing initiative called “On the Road Again,” aimed at giving a much-needed boost to touring artists gracing select North American club venues. This exciting program not only offers artists travel stipends but also waves off those pesky merchandise selling fees, providing a significant relief to both their wallets and their fans’ wallets.
The travel stipend, generously set at $1,500 in “gas and travel cash,” is Live Nation’s way of saying, “We’ve got your back, musicians!” This financial cushion will be available for artists for “the next few months,” offering a sigh of relief in these challenging times. Plus, the program’s name, “On the Road Again,” pays homage to the legendary Willie Nelson and his iconic song.
But that’s not all, folks! Live Nation isn’t just thinking about the artists; they’re spreading the love to local promoters, tour reps, and venue crew members who’ve clocked in over 500 hours in 2023. These unsung heroes will receive undisclosed “financial bonuses” as a token of appreciation for their hard work.
In a gesture that hits all the right notes, Live Nation is also committing a whopping $5 million to Crew Nation, a global relief fund dedicated to supporting live music crews. This isn’t just music to our ears; it’s a symphony of support for those who make the magic happen behind the scenes.
Live Nation’s generosity doesn’t stop there; they’re planning to disperse “tens of millions of dollars in extra earnings to club artists and crew” by the end of 2023 through this program. It’s like a musical lottery where everyone’s a winner!
Now, for the encore: How long will “On the Road Again” continue, you ask? Well, that’s the million-dollar question, literally. It’s still a bit hazy on the details regarding the program’s lifespan and whether more venues will join the party. While Live Nation Entertainment boasts a portfolio of over 200 venues, it’s worth noting that larger arenas and amphitheaters are sitting this one out for now. Smaller clubs like the iconic Cafe du Nord in San Francisco and the Paradise Rock Club in Boston, however, are in the spotlight.
This program is poised to give a shot of adrenaline to touring artists performing at these select venues, but it could also ruffle some feathers in the world of independent mid-size promoters. Many of them have been feeling the squeeze due to the increased consolidation efforts by Live Nation and its main competitor, AEG Presents. Competition in the music world, much like a rock ‘n’ roll riff, can be intense.
“On the Road Again” is the result of a harmonious crescendo in a campaign by artists protesting the steep fees venues charge for selling merchandise at their shows, fees that sometimes gobble up as much as 40 percent of their sales. In 2022, the Featured Artists Coalition, the Union of Musicians and Allied Workers, and Canadian rapper Cadence Weapon joined forces for the #MyMerch campaign, rallying for an end to these burdensome fees.
In conclusion, Live Nation’s “On the Road Again” program is like music to the ears of touring artists, crew members, and fans alike. It’s a melody of support, a symphony of generosity, and a testament to the enduring power of music to bring people together, both on and off the stage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Live Nation On the Road Again Program
What is the “On the Road Again” program by Live Nation Entertainment?
The “On the Road Again” program by Live Nation Entertainment is a new initiative aimed at supporting touring artists who perform at select North American club venues. It offers travel stipends to artists and eliminates merchandise selling fees at 77 participating venues.
How much is the travel stipend provided by Live Nation’s “On the Road Again” program?
Live Nation is providing a travel stipend of $1,500 in “gas and travel cash” to artists participating in the program. This stipend is intended to help cover the costs of traveling to their performances.
How long will the “On the Road Again” program be available?
The program is set to run for “the next few months” at least, as per Live Nation’s announcement. However, it’s not entirely clear how long it will continue beyond that period.
Who else benefits from the “On the Road Again” program besides artists?
Live Nation is extending its support beyond artists. The program also includes “financial bonuses” for local promoters, tour representatives, and venue crew members who have worked over 500 hours in 2023. Additionally, Live Nation is pledging $5 million to Crew Nation, a global relief fund for live music crews.
Which venues are part of the “On the Road Again” program?
The program currently includes 77 select North American club venues. Notably, larger venues such as stadiums and amphitheaters are excluded for now. Smaller clubs like the Cafe du Nord in San Francisco and the Paradise Rock Club in Boston are among the participating venues.
Why is Live Nation launching this program?
The “On the Road Again” program comes in response to ongoing concerns in the music industry about the high fees venues charge artists for selling merchandise at their shows. These fees can be as high as 40 percent of sales. It also aims to provide much-needed support to artists and crew members during challenging times.
What is the history behind the #MyMerch campaign mentioned in the article?
The #MyMerch campaign was launched in 2022 by various artist coalitions and organizations, including the Featured Artists Coalition, the Union of Musicians and Allied Workers, and Canadian rapper Cadence Weapon. It sought to raise awareness and advocate for an end to the steep merchandise selling fees that venues were imposing on artists. This campaign contributed to the industry-wide conversation and may have influenced Live Nation’s decision to launch the “On the Road Again” program.
More about Live Nation On the Road Again Program
- Live Nation Entertainment
- Live Nation On the Road Again Program
- Featured Artists Coalition
- Union of Musicians and Allied Workers
- Crew Nation
- #MyMerch campaign
2 comments
gr8 move by LiveNation. But I hope more venues join soon. Keep rockin’!
Luv how LiveNation’s helpin’ out the crew too. CrewNation fund is much needed!