Economy
Artists Offer Low-cost Concert Tickets With Seat Surprise
Major artists including the Rolling Stones, Coldplay, Olivia Rodrigo, and Charli XCX have introduced programs offering concert tickets for as little as £20 ($26), though buyers won't know their seats until arrival.
Live Nation's Jared Braverman said the Stones' "Lucky Dip" inspired Coldplay's "Infinity Tickets, which led to Rodrigo's "Silver Star" scheme. Braverman admitted the programs cover "not a ton of tickets per show. Jonathan Eshak of Mick Management said artists are forfeiting revenue to address fan complaints about access.
A Luminate survey found 57% of Gen Z respondents cited ticket costs as a barrier in 2025, down from 75% in 2024. UK concert prices have risen 521% over 30 years, from £16.99 in 1996 to £105.60 now, versus £34.18 if matching inflation. Prices jumped 80.5% since 2021.
Source: Independent Culture
