Ticketmaster is currently facing an antitrust lawsuit, with plaintiffs accusing the company of anti-competitive practices that drive up prices and limit access to tickets. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and 30 states filed the lawsuit in May 2024, alleging monopolistic practices that harmed consumers and artists. In its defense, Ticketmaster argues that its dominance in the ticketing industry actually saves concertgoers money. Live Nation attorney Andrew Gass told the judge, "If Ticketmaster wasn't doing what it was doing, then multiple ticketers could sell for an event, and then the customers would be better off in that world? That is only a theory."

We understand that handling ticketing for massive events, dealing with scalpers, and keeping everything running smoothly is no small task. But for fans and event organizers, the reality of large ticketing companies monopolizing the industry often feels frustrating. They face high and hidden fees, limited ticket and event access, and a system that doesn’t always put them first. It’s a complicated issue, and there’s room for improvement across the board.

At Sellout, we get it because we’ve been there. We’ve worked the shows, managed the tours, sold the merch, and hustled behind the scenes to make live events happen. We’ve been on both sides of the barricade, and we know how much heart, sweat, and soul go into making live events happen. That’s why we’re building a better way—one that puts fans and organizers first. Fair pricing, transparency, and a ticketing system that actually works for you. Because live events should be about the music, the memories, and the magic,not the headaches.

We’re here to change the game. Let’s do it together.

The Impact of Industry Consolidation

For decades, Ticketmaster and its parent company, Live Nation, have played a major role in shaping the live entertainment industry. Their extensive network has helped bring events to millions of fans worldwide, but their dominance has also raised important concerns about competition and accessibility.

Here are some of the challenges that come with a system controlled by a single major player:

• Limited opportunities for independent promoters: Local and smaller event organizers often struggle to secure venues and distribution, making it harder for them to compete.

• Higher costs for fans: Service fees, surge pricing, and other changes have made events increasingly expensive, putting more and more live events out of reach for fans.

• Less flexibility for artists and organizers: When venues are tied to exclusive contracts, artists and event organizers may have fewer options to choose from, limiting fair competition.

This lawsuit against Ticketmaster isn’t just about pricing; it’s about the future of live entertainment. A system that prioritizes corporate interest over independent creativity can make it harder for emerging artists, grassroots venues, and unique events to flourish. If competition continues to shrink, the diversity and accessibility of live entertainment may be at risk.

Shoutout to the Real MVPs: Independent Event Organizers

Let’s talk about the unsung heroes of live entertainment: the independent event organizers, the ones hustling behind the scenes to bring unforgettable experiences to life. They’re the ones scouting out fresh talent, working hard to keep ticket prices reasonable, and making sure every show has its own special aurora.

At Sellout, we’re here for the fans, the artists, AND the event organizers who make the magic happen. We’ve been in the trenches as venue staff, tech crews, and production crews. We get the struggle, the passion, and the late- night hustle, and we’re building a ticketing system that actually works for the people who create live entertainment. That’s why we’re building a system that actually works for the people who bring live entertainment to life.

• Lower Fees, More Control: We believe you should keep more of your hard-earned revenue. That’s why we offer a fair, transparent pricing structure that helps you maximize your event’s success.

• Seamless Ticketing: Say goodbye to clunky systems and hidden costs. Our platform is designed to make ticketing smooth, simple, and fan-friendly.

• Support for Independent Events: Whether you’re putting on a local indie showcase, a comedy night, or a full-scale festival, we’re here to provide the tools you need to thrive.

• Built for the Industry, By the Industry: We know what it takes because we’ve been there. That’s why our platform is designed with event organizers, artists, and fans in mind.

At Sellout, we’re here to make live events better—for everyone. We believe in a future where independent organizers can compete, artists can thrive, and fans can enjoy unforgettable experiences.

The Future Looks Bright – Powered by Fans & Organizers

Fans should have choices. Artists should have control. And event organizers should have freedom to book the venues they want, set fair prices, and put on the best show possible without jumping through a million hoops.

Live entertainment is about connection, energy, and unforgettable moments. And we’re here to make sure it stays that way.

Let’s make live events better, together. Contact us or schedule a demo today to see how we will suit your needs.