The cost of concert tickets is an undeniable issue in post-covid life. For a lot of us, returning to ‘normal’ life includes getting back to enjoying gigs, but as our favourite artists announce world tours, the price increase can be staggering.
Iconic pop-punk band Blink-182's recent ticket sales are particularly relevant, with resale prices ending up at a whopping £1,022 per seated ticket.
On TicketMaster, prices were £92.95 per standing ticket. This may not seem bad in theory, but when you take into account transport costs, TicketMaster fees and hotel prices, an average seat at a concert may leave you up to £500 out of pocket.
Let’s be honest, it leaves us asking: why are ticket prices getting out of hand?
When asked about the ticket prices for shows, Blink-182 guitarist Mark Hoppus quotes: "Dynamic pricing. I'm not in charge of it. It's meant to discourage scalpers."
Ticket prices can discourage us from gigs completely, especially in the current cost of living crisis.
When we used to be able to see our favourite bands for under £50, it now seems absurd to pay more.
In fact, back in 2009, Blink-182's US tickets were as low as $20.
Fighting scalpers or not, forcing fans to pay more because of the monopoly system of music ticketing is somewhat offensive.
There has been uproar on Twitter, with user @emmarsex tweeting:
“If I was a Blink 182 fan I'd be absolutely furious at their statements about Ticketmaster and astronomical second hand ticket prices...The inaction of musicians is costing paying fans thousands.”
Have you been to a gig recently, and did you think the ticket prices were reasonable? Let us know!