Antitrust Case Targets Live Nation-Ticketmaster Grip on Concerts

Federal prosecutors opened the high‑stakes antitrust trial against Live Nation and Ticketmaster, accusing them of illegally wielding monopoly power to control venues, promotion, and ticketing—including tying venues to promotion services and pressing long‑term Ticketmaster contracts—while Live Nation contends it has no monopoly and that the market remains competitive. The DOJ’s case, narrowed by a pre‑trial ruling, could reshape the live‑entertainment industry and is expected to run about five to six weeks with high‑profile witnesses and executives testifying.