Photo Credit: ABC Promotional Videos
Live Nation wasted no time in firing back at the upcoming Four Corners investigation into its Australasian operations in an episode set to air on ABC on October 14. The company released a strongly worded statement calling the episode “inaccurate and unbalanced.”
The teaser for the episode, which is expected to scrutinize Live Nation’s influence over Australia’s live music industry, features criticisms from high-profile Australian figures like Michael Chugg and Peter Garrett. “I don’t think Live Nation cares at all about Australian artists and they are basically calling the shots,” said Garrett, while Chugg asserts Live Nation’s entry into the Australian market “f—ed it up.”
But Live Nation’s statement pushes back against these remarks and more. “Despite our best efforts to engage with Four Corners and present them with facts about the live entertainment industry, the promotional video contains a range of falsehoods and unsubstantiated allegations.”
Live Nation claims it provided detailed responses to Four Corners’ questions, but alleges its input was “largely ignored” in favor of a more “sensationalized narrative.” The company clarifies that its actual market presence only comprises six of the approximately 2,700 live music venues across Australia.
“Australia’s live entertainment industry is highly competitive,” said Live Nation. “We are one of many promoters, with TEG and Frontier among the top. Our investments in artists, venues, and events have enriched Australia’s cultural landscape, creating thousands of jobs.”
The company also noted its efforts to support local talent, claiming it has promoted over 900 shows for developing Australian talent since 2016, while ensuring 85% of its international tours feature local opening acts.
On the issue of ticket pricing, Live Nation asserts that its subsidiary, Ticketmaster, does not set ticket prices — artist teams and event organizers do. “Ticket prices need to compensate touring artists and ensure that Australia continues to attract many of the world’s most popular acts,” the company said, noting the rising production and touring costs since the COVID pandemic.
Live Nation said it is proud of its work promoting Australian talent. “We won’t let this noise detract from doing what we do best — servicing our artists, clients, and fans.”
The Four Corners episode airs Monday, October 14, at 8:30 PM Australian Eastern Daylight Time on ABC TV and ABC iview.
