Unsealed Messages Reveal Live Nation Staff Boast of ‘Robbing’ Fans
Recent revelations from unsealed communications have sparked controversy surrounding Live Nation ticketing practices. Two directors, Ben Baker and Jeff Weinhold, reportedly boasted about exploiting fans with excessive fees. These chats, tied to an ongoing antitrust lawsuit, shed light on the company’s pricing strategies.
Live Nation Directors’ Controversial Chats
The conversations between Baker and Weinhold occurred while they were regional ticketing directors for Live Nation amphitheaters. They discussed ancillary fees, primarily about parking and VIP access, rather than direct ticketing fees. Baker candidly admitted to “gouging” prices to counteract shifts in seat pricing.
High Parking Fees and Boastful Attitudes
In a January 2022 discussion, Baker highlighted parking fees for a Kid Rock concert in Tampa, Florida. He mockingly referred to concertgoers as “stupid” and revealed pricing up to $250 for VIP parking. “I almost feel bad taking advantage of them,” he stated, indicating a flippant attitude toward fan experiences.
- Baker’s remarks included: “Robbing them blind baby That’s how we do.”
- Weinhold similarly described raising parking prices, stating, “I’m done asking people for permission … I just do it now.”
- Parking prices for premier spots rose significantly, indicating a revenue jump from $470,000 in 2018 to $666,000 in 2021.
Response from Live Nation
In light of these unsealed messages, Live Nation issued a statement asserting that the exchanges do not reflect their operational values. The company emphasized their commitment to positive fan experiences, noting a cap on amphitheater venue fees at 15 percent and an investment of $1 billion into enhancing U.S. venues.
Live Nation characterized Baker and Weinhold as junior employees, despite their actual managerial roles. Baker has since transitioned to head of ticketing for Venue Nation, while Weinhold serves as senior ticketing director for the Washington D.C. area.
Ongoing Legal Battles
Prior to the unsealing of these messages, Live Nation sought to keep them confidential, suggesting they might prejudice jurors. The Justice Department countered, arguing that they illustrate the company’s ability to impose high prices without the risk of losing artists to competing venues.
Despite a recent settlement, the legal dispute is not fully resolved. The court has urged state attorneys general to negotiate a deal by the end of this week, leaving the potential for further developments in the case.
