Louis Messina, a renowned concert promoter known for working with major artists like Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran, dives into the challenges of post-pandemic concert promotion. He discusses the intricate dynamics of ticket pricing, addressing frustrations over fees and the dominance of Ticketmaster. Messina also shares insights on strategic tour planning and the personal connections that elevate artists' careers. His anecdotes reveal how mentorship shaped his journey and the importance of balancing a demanding career with family life.
Louis Messina highlights the oversaturation of concert performances post-COVID-19, raising concerns about audience fatigue and financial priorities.
Messina advocates for a long-term approach in artist development, emphasizing strategic planning for sustainable careers over fleeting success.
The connection between artists and audiences is crucial for concert success, as Messina focuses on creating immersive experiences with strong engagement.
Messina points out the complexities and challenges of ticket pricing and revenue-sharing models, calling for greater transparency in the ticketing industry.
Deep dives
Julian Lennon's Impact Through Photography
Julian Lennon highlights the profound effect his photography has on individuals who are unable to travel. Through his lens, he brings stories, cultures, and truths from across the globe to those who might never experience them firsthand. The emotional response he receives from his audience reinforces the importance of his work in connecting people to diverse narratives. This connection emphasizes the role of art in fostering understanding and empathy among different cultures.
The Post-COVID Concert Landscape
Concert promoter Louis Messina discusses the changes in the concert promotion industry following the COVID-19 pandemic. He observes an oversaturation of performances as many artists return to the road, raising concerns about audience fatigue and financial limitations. Despite the abundance of shows, he anticipates challenges ahead, noting that audiences may eventually have to prioritize their concert attendance due to budget constraints. This shift signifies a new reality artists must navigate in the post-pandemic musical landscape.
Long-Term Artist Development
Messina emphasizes the importance of taking a long-term view in artist development rather than just focusing on immediate success. He considers himself a 'career promoter' who plans tours years in advance, ensuring that artists have a trajectory for growth. By helping artists like The Lumineers expand their audience gradually, he fosters sustainable careers rather than fleeting fame. This method highlights the significance of strategic planning in creating lasting success in the music industry.
Building Connection Between Artists and Audiences
The connection between artists and their audience is paramount for Messina, who strives to create an immersive experience when promoting concerts. He assesses the chemistry between performers and fans as a key indicator of potential success. His approach involves deeper engagement with all stakeholders, including managers and record labels, aligning goals for audience expansion. This collaboration aims to ensure that every concert is not just a performance but a memorable event that resonates with fans.
Navigating the Complex Ticketing Landscape
Messina discusses the complexities of ticket pricing and the rising service fees that consumers face. He acknowledges that while dynamic pricing can help manage demand, it often leads to inflated costs for fans. He expresses concern over the disparate revenue-sharing models with ticketing companies, which can leave artists with a lesser share of the profits. These challenges underscore the need for transparency and fairness in ticketing practices within the entertainment industry.
Embracing the Digital Age
The significance of social media and digital marketing in promoting artists today cannot be overstated, according to Messina. He recognizes that artists must be savvy in engaging with their fanbase online to build and maintain their careers. Despite his limited personal prowess in the digital landscape, he relies on a dedicated team to provide insight into audience dynamics and trends. This division of labor allows him to focus on big-picture strategies while empowering his staff to execute detailed marketing plans.
Adapting to Changing Music Industry Dynamics
Messina reflects on the shifting dynamics of the music industry, where traditional record labels sometimes struggle to break new acts. He believes that record companies must adapt their approaches by investing deeply in fewer artists to drive success rather than spreading themselves too thin. By prioritizing quality over quantity, labels may better support the long-term growth of talented musicians. This perspective advocates for a renewed focus on genuine artist development rather than relying solely on viral hits.
Personal Commitment to Family and Health
Throughout the conversation, Messina shares insights into his personal life, emphasizing the importance of family and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He describes the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family commitments, particularly as he shifts away from excessive work travel. By prioritizing time at home and nurturing personal relationships, he strives to create a fulfilling life for himself and his loved ones. This commitment demonstrates how personal health and family well-being are integral to sustaining a successful career.
