DOJ Wants To Break-Up Live Nation, Ticketmaster

As expected The Justice Department is seeking to break up Live Nation Entertainment, Ticketmaster's parent company, over antitrust law violations.

The lawsuit, filed Friday, alleges that the music giant illegally controls a monopoly in live entertainment by engaging in long-term exclusive contracts with venues and threatening financial retribution against venues and artists who use Ticketmaster. It argues that these practices violate antitrust laws and drive up ticket prices. According to The New York Times, the lawsuit aims to break up the monopoly

Here are the key points:

• Monopoly Allegations: The DOJ claims that Ticketmaster and Live Nation hold an illegal monopoly over live events in America. They are accused of stifling competition and driving up prices for fans.
• Lawsuit Details: The antitrust lawsuit was filed in federal court in Manhattan. It was brought in collaboration with 30 state and district attorneys general. The goal is to dismantle the alleged monopoly, which impacts smaller promoters, artists, and ticket buyers.
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  Live Nation’s Control: Live Nation is accused of controlling virtually every aspect of the industry, from concert promotion to ticketing. The impact is evident in the numerous fees imposed on fans.
• Artists and Fans Speak Out: Major artists like Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen have clashed with Ticketmaster and Live Nation in the past. Fans express frustration over rising ticket prices and additional fees.
• DOJ’s Stance: Attorney General Merrick Garland stated, “It’s time for fans and artists to stop paying the price for Live Nation’s monopoly.” The DOJ aims to restore competition and innovation in the entertainment industry by breaking up Live Nation-Ticketmaster.
• Consumer Perspective: Fans have experienced higher ticket costs due to Ticketmaster’s fees.

Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter emphasizes that live music should be accessible to all, not just those who can afford the “Ticketmaster tax.”

This legal battle seeks to address concerns about monopolistic practices and create a fairer environment for artists and fans alike.