WEATHERING THE STORM

With vaccine distribution beginning just before the new year, touring hibernation is nearing its end; the live business is gearing up for a summer of shows in Europe and North America, leaning into outdoor performances, festivals and sheds.

Reflecting the optimism inspired by a vaccinated, de-Trumpified future, Michael Rapino, Jay Marciano, Rob Light, Coran Capshaw, Irving Azoff, Cliff Burnstein, Peter Mensch, Jonathan Daniel, Bob McLynn and the other leading lights of the live sector are raring to go for summer 2021.

With everyone circling festival season, venue availability will be the biggest hurdle once the virus is under control. New terms have been agreed upon by all parties, including smaller guarantees, and excitement is at an all-time high as fans, artists and the biz at large can't wait for the concert industry's comeback.

Meanwhile, Live Nation's stock continues to surge as the light at the end of the tunnel gets closer and closer.

Is it too early to put ticket requests in?