The Live Music Industry Podcast Episode #16 | Bruce Finkelman (Managing Partner, 16 on Center) Secrets to Success - Building an Independent Music Venue Empire in Chicago
In this episode of the podcast, I sit down with Bruce Finkelman, Managing Partner of 16 on Center, to uncover the secrets behind building an independent music venue empire in Chicago. From the founding story of 16 On Center to expanding multiple venues, we explore the economics of owning your own venue space, the evolution of running a venue from 1995 to 2024, and the challenges of staying independent in an industry dominated by giants like Live Nation and Ticketmaster. Bruce also shares insights into building a sustainable team, creating iconic venues like The Salt Shed, and his vision for the future of the music industry.
Chapters
(00:10) -Bruce’s story and the founding story of 16 On Center
(09:53) - The first empty bottle
(13:38) - Expanding to multiple venues
(27:14) - Economics: Owning the dirt at your venue + The evolution of running a venue from 1995 to 2024
(35:31) -Attracting to talent and Building a company that employs and sustains 600 people
(41:30) - The creation story of The Salt Shed
(48:00) - Making the jump to book larger rooms
(52:00) - Fastball questions - Using Prism and the tech stack to organize a massive amount of concerts, Secrets to building a succesful operation, the battle to stay independent, Live Nation, Ticketmaster and the DOJ.
(1:00:10) - Plans for the future (or lack thereof), the future of the industry
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Meet the Podcast Host/CEO of Prism - Matt Ford
Opening Music - Papooz - The Garde
16 on Center
https://www.16oncenterchicago.com/