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VOLUME 233
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APRIL 2020
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VIP NEWS >
APRIL 2020
McGowan’s
Musings
I don’t know about you, but I seem to have
As I left London’s Royal Garden Hotel, a
entrepreneurial
business
to
re-establish
a lot of time to think of late, oh, you too?
seeming lifetime ago on March 6th, the final
itself? There are offers of support on hand
More musing than usual, not necessarily
day of ILMC 32, I hadn’t the faintest idea
from governments and music organisations,
creative, but certainly observational, you
what the train to Brighton was taking me to.
which are of course welcome and vitally
know, in these more than difficult times of,
I’m a science fiction fan, but without doubt
necessary, but these things take time to be
‘where have we been, where are we going,
we can all live without the awful reality of
implemented.
will we be taking sandwiches?!
this particular alien invasion!
place with the rapid introduction of virtual
Diversification is already in
events and meetings. However, are we able Contemplating the present, virally dominated
to accept the effects of continuing lockdown
state of a live music industry forced into
and shut down, resulting in the complete
stasis, is not at all easy, but in the same
change of the operation of live events and
way that we think positive thoughts for the
meetings? Live streaming and virtual events
recovery of those physically struck down by
have their place but can they completely
the virus the best thing we can do is try to
replace the live experience?
figure out just how to bring live back to life! As someone said, there is no immunity to
COLOPHON > VIP-News is published by: VIP-Booking.com Enghaven 19 Attrup 8444 Balle Denmark Managing Director: Ronni Didriksen rd@vip-booking.com General Manager: Peter Briggs pb@vip-booking.com Writer and editorial: Allan McGowan am@vip-booking.com Writer: Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com
The renowned American economist Milton
postponement or cancellation! Of course
Friedman won the Nobel Prize for his
we have no idea how long this will all take
research on; consumption analysis, monetary
to resolve. The EU has stated that festivals
history and theory and the complexity of
and concerts should be the last form of
stabilization policy (of course I think about
activity to restart following the COVID-19
this all the time!). A quote of his, brought to
shutdown of events. But when the present
my attention by the futurist Gerd Leonhard
lockdowns are eased it will be obvious jus
seems relevant for the situation in which the
how vitally important clubs, events, festivals
live industry currently finds itself; “Only a
bars and the whole cultural system is to
crisis – actual or perceived – produces real
society as a whole.
change. When that crisis occurs, the actions that are taken depend on the ideas that are
What we need of course is a vaccine – the
lying around. That, I believe, is our basic
vaccine!
function: to develop alternatives to existing
‘Delivering One World – Together at Home’
policies, to keep them alive and available
the Rolling Stones quite aptly sang, ‘You
until the politically impossible becomes the
Can’t Always Get What You Want’, but
politically inevitable”
won’t it be great to, as soon as possible, to
For advertising enquiries please contact: Peter Briggs pb@vip-booking.com +46 70 77 60 480 Charlie Presburg cp@vip-booking.com +44 (0) 7980 817496
2
In their Zoom appearance on
‘Get What We Need’?! So, as we enter the second month of the crisis, with more and more events being
Things will of course change, but, who
postponed and cancelled, more companies
knows, perhaps some aspects of how this
facing closure and bankruptcy, and more
business runs may even change for the
and more individuals finding themselves
better! In the meantime, stay safe and well!
contemplating unemployment, how is an
Love from us all!
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VIP NEWS >
APRIL 2020
Worldwide Live Industry Professionals join the VIP Online Panel From VIP-Daily News Live Music Industry professionals from around the globe joined the
Association Yourope, updated us on their efforts as an association to
first ever VIP-Booking.com online panel to discuss the crisis in the Live
push the EU to keep a focus on our industry.
Music Industry caused by the coronavirus. Nana Trandou from High Priority Promotions in Greece, who among The panel was moderated by Ivana Dragila and featured 3 Live Music
other events promote the Athens Rocks Festival, told us about her
Industry Professionals filling the delegates in on how they`re handling
terrible experience over the past 7 weeks after being diagnosed and
the current situation and what they expect the future will bring.
hospitalised with Covid-19. We were all very happy to see that she is now back in her home and on the way to recovery.
Paulina Ahokas – MD, Tampere Hall (Finland), Christof Huber – Director Festivals, Gadget ABC Entertainment Group (Switzerland),
Nick Hobbs from Charmenko shared his view on the crisis and the
Rob Berends – Founder, Paperclip Agency (Holland)
situation in Turkey where he is located.
Besides the 3 panel guests, delegates from around the world
Noemia Matsumoto from Opus Entretenimento in Brazil told us about
contributed with their views on the various ways the industry is
the specific actions the industry is taking in Brazil.
dealing with the crisis and provided updates on the help packages
4
being offered in their different countries. Christof Huber who is
Marc Gentiella from CelebrityAccess gave his view on how he thinks
also General Secretary and board member of the European Festival
the major US promoters and agencies will survive this crisis, many of
VIP NEWS >
APRIL 2020
which are carrying big debts after buying up companies worldwide
much enjoyed this one and it was a very easy way to get updated
for the past decade.
information on what’s happening all over Europe & The World.”
The Online Panel was a big success and it was evident that everyone
This will be a recurring event so look out and register for future online
was happy to get a chance to “meet up” again and share experiences
panels as they are announced.
with colleagues and partners from around the world. Kari Possi from Blue Budda in Finland wrote an email to VIP afterwards saying “Thank you so much for collecting this panel today. I very
The first panel can be viewed in full here: VIP-Booking OnLine Panel
NTIA to challenge insurance claim denial From VIP-Daily News UK trade association Night Time Industries
authorities and who had to close their
Association (NTIA) has teamed up with a
premises under the regulation “have a good
leading industry barrister to coordinate
case against Hiscox.”
claims against Hiscox Insurance for refusal to pay out under its business interruption policy.
Michael Kill, chief executive of NTIA, said: “Night Time Economy businesses are being
NTIA, who last week claimed its member
denied legitimate insurance claims, many
businesses are being denied COVID-19-
claims are being disputed by insurers based
related insurance claims, have instructed
on contrived arguments to avoid sharing the
Philip Kolvin QC, an industry barrister, to
financial burden during the COVID-19 crisis.”
advise on members’ rights under their insurance policies.
Kolvin
added:
“Leisure
operators
are
Michael Kill
suffering severe hardship. There is a clear Hiscox
and present danger that the industry will
It is time now for those insurance companies
Insurance underwrote one of the main
be decimated, that leisure businesses
who know they are liable under their
leisure sector policies.
throughout the UK will go to the wall, that
policies do the same. The clue is in the name
According
to
the
association,
jobs and livelihoods will be lost, and that
‘insurance’. It is what they are in business
Kolvin said claimants who were insured
the cultural capacity of the nation will be
for. They should not be running for cover.
by the company against closure by public
depleted for years to come.
They will never be forgiven for doing so.”
5
VIP NEWS >
APRIL 2020
Paradigm President Greg Bestick Retires From VIP-Daily News Greg Bestick, an 11 year veteran of Paradigm
Scott Melrose bridging film/tv and music. All
who rose from COO to Agency President, has
the agencies we partnered with and then
announced his retirement to the staff at the
brought in under the tent: AM Only with
company.
Paul, Lee, Meyer, Cody; Windish with Tom
Greg Bestick
and Sam Hunt; those super impressive Brits Paradigm Chairman & CEO Sam Gores said
at Coda, Tom, Alex and James. Steve and Ian
respected and desirable to others in our
that “Greg played a vital role in the agency’s
from X-ray, Garry and Ron from the other
world. No one saw a global pandemic coming.
growth and successes. I am forever grateful
Monterey. All the talented, hard-working
Nothing emerging from the far side of this
to him. I could not have asked for a more
people who keep the wheels turning, Craig
will be unchanged. It’s a challenge, but also
capable executive and counsel these past
and Stephanie and the legal staff, Ben
an opportunity to reimagine so many things:
eleven years. Greg and I have become close
Scott, Sara Pullman and the ops group, Jess
the work environment, how we interact, how
friends, and I wish him the happiest, most
Dennis and Dave Hallybone and the finance/
we distribute and consume content, how
well-deserved retirement as we look to write
accounting teams across the business, Joe
we break careers, how we strategize and
Paradigm’s next chapter.”
and Steph and Lori. And so many others who
manage on a global level. What you have in
taught me, challenged me, collaborated
front of you is a tremendous trauma, and an
with me. Thank you.
enormous opportunity.
Most importantly, it’s been a pleasure and a
Paradigm now has to regroup. But the
privilege to work with Sam. Over the years,
foundation is there, the talent is there, the
I’ve watched him always trying to do the right
opportunity to rebuild the business in a
In February of 2009, I came to work at
thing when it came to treating people fairly
new and stronger way is there. All it takes is
Paradigm on a three-month consulting
and humanely. In a cutthroat business full of
teamwork and a willingness to see and strive
contract. Three months and eleven very
people willing to take shortcuts, Sam stood
for a better, more hopeful future.
fulfilling years later, I’m moving on to the next
out as someone who is sensitive, ethical and
phase of my life and retiring from full time
supportive. It pains me to see the nonsense
Dealing with all of you on your good and
work. This was the longest time I’d ever spent
that’s been put out in the press about him.
not-so-good days has made the years fly by.
at one job in my life. By far. What kept me
That’s not the person I know and respect and
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the challenge, but
tied to this particular place for so long?
worked closely with for over a decade.
I’ve been trying to get to the next chapter
Mainly it was the people. So many who are
I especially want to thank Jessica McCrary.
Instead of living in NY and LA, I’ll visit those
not only capable and talented workers, but
Part General Patton, part Mary Poppins, she
places, and settle in to doing the things
genuinely good human beings. Fargo and
makes all of it look effortless and fun. Day
you do on the Maine coast. I have a few
Metzger and Tantleff and the whole New
after day, she kept pointing me in the right
mountains, real and metaphorical, I want to
York crew. Monterey, the foundation of our
direction. I predict great things for her in
climb while I’m still able. Please stay in touch,
music business, Dan and Fred and Chip and
the future.
though. I want to hear about your traumas
Here is the email that Bestick just sent to the staff at Paradigm: From the desk of Greg Bestick
of my life for a while, and now is the time.
Jonathan and that whole next generation of
6
Pinkus,
Hasson,
Atamian,
and triumphs. And of course, I will always be
Greisch,
Let’s face it, this is a business you get caught
here to give my support or assistance when
McSwiggin, Nalpant, Schultz and on and on.
up in. It moves fast, it’s always in the current
needed. I’m proud to have worked with you
The other music foundation, in New York,
conversation, it requires nerve, strategy,
and cherish the friendships that will last past
Marty, Larry, then Galle and Marquis and all
finesse and plain old hard work. It’s been
this time. I’ll miss you.
they built up over the years. The talent and
very satisfying to build up the business, help
lit people in LA, Rand and Andrew and Alisa
put the pieces together, work with incredibly
Much Love and Respect,
and Andy and Bill and Mark. Ben Weiss and
talented
Greg
artists,
and
create
something
VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >
APRIL 2020
COVID-19 and the Live Industry: How Are we Coping? It goes without saying that these are challenging times with the Live Music & Events Industry being one of the worst hit by the current coronavirus crisis and with the lockdowns and restrictions on events imposed by governments all over the world. Although there is some hope on the horizon with many tours already being rescheduled for the autumn there is still a lot of uncertainty remaining. We asked 4 professionals from different countries about their current situation and how they are dealing with the problems facing their businesses.
Paulina Ahokas - CEO at Tampere Hall, Finland How is your venue/company coping
will have a huge responsibility in bringing
100% by the city. Our city has not managed
with the current crisis?
back people’s trust and economical activity
to make any plans for financial support. We
at large. As always after wars.
hope to be able to apply for some of the
How do you cope with a black swan? You
development money which will possibly be
go into crisis mode, and try to do everything
How has your everyday work changed?
distributed by the ministry of culture. We
you possibly can to ensure that you will have
Are you working from home etc.?
are one of the biggest promoters of cultural
a strong, innovative and energetic company
events, and the biggest entrepreneur in
to return to once the situation is over. We
I have been working from home for three
staged art in Finland, so I have a reason to
have had to close doors, furlough all of our
weeks now. I was never really a huge fan
believe they will have an interest in making
staff (some part-time, some full-time), and
of remote working and this has made me
sure these services continue also in the
adjust to the situation. But we believe it is
dislike it even more. Some 6-8 hours a day
future. But at large, we need to prepare to
temporary: once the crisis is over, people
in various digital meeting services, events
cope even if the cavalry doesn’t ride in to
will yearn for human contact, experiences
and other digital services makes me long
rescue us.
and culture more than ever, and our sector
for human contact. I have yet to make
the same proper connection with another
When are you expecting to start re-
person via any digital service than I manage
opening doors again?
in person. But of course we just cope, since
we have no other option at the moment.
Of course we hope to do it as soon as
possible, but it is looking very unlikely we
Have you received any financial support
will be able to do so during this summer. We
from your government and if so what
would have hoped to do so, because not
kind of support is being offered?
only do we have the world’s only Moomin
Museum under the same roof, but we also
We are in a rather difficult situation since
had fabulous summer exhibitions of Keith
we cannot apply for any of the government
Haring, Ralph Larmann etc. lined up, as well
aid for companies, since we are owned
as a couple fantastic summer conferences.
Paulina Ahokas
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VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >
APRIL 2020
Have you managed to reschedule all the
will be in the autumn of 2020, and also
of culture i.e. everyone wants to go
shows you had booked for this period?
early 2021. I totally understand where this
and experience events, digital leap and
comes from, everyone is doing their very
new virtual reality aspects strengthened
In the first wave we rescheduled many and
best to secure their life-line and wanting to
alongside
even most of the shows, but the situation
benefit from the renaissance of culture, but
movement and visuals.
has changed quite a bit, and we will have
I also think we all have to look into what is
to think over this strategy, because it is
worse, making huge losses or making less
But also tons of purely magnificent affects
not in anyone’s interest to have a ton of
income.
that we do not need to prepare for, such as
conflicting and competing events on at the
a huge increase of respect for our industry,
same time.
What long term affects do you think
both by ourselves, our clientele and the
the current crisis will have on the future
government officials.
Are you already booking new shows
of the Live Music Industry?
for later in the year and next year?
Do you have any ideas on how to keep
Long term is the question, and so important
business rolling during these times?
Yes, we are working on both. Our promoters
to keep our eyes on that, because if this
and programme directors are working full
would only be a temporary cash deficit
I wish I had. It is not really a business to
on to realize the best possible programme,
problem, we would not have so much
realize virtual events with public support. I
both for the quickly changing environment
to prepare for. Yes, I do think this crisis
am glad there are also new, ticketed virtual
of 2020 and 2021, as well as for 2022.
will also have long term affects: further
concert experiences tested and tried out,
consolidations, but also completely new
since they seem to offer at least some
Are you worried about event saturation
actors entering the field, some changes in
kind of earning opportunity for artists and
once the ban is lifted?
the B2C clientele and definitely changes
technicians. I am most worried about their
in the B2B partner landscape, increased
life-line: most of them have dropped into a
Yes, very much so. I am not sure if everyone
local travel and experience desire i.e.
situation of practically no income, for the
is conscious how much competition there
strengthening of local cultures, renaissance
time-being.
the
good
old
sweat&smell,
Georg Leitner - CEO at Georg Leitner Productions, Austria How is your company coping with the
I exercise every morning now, enjoy lunch
time as a team to develop new show formats
current crisis?
and breakfast with my family, walk our dog
and tour packages for 2021 & 2022.
in the Vienna woods and play new songs
Most of the staff are at their home offices
on the piano (right now I’m practicing Nina
Have you received any financial support
and we have regular “Zoom Meetings”.
Simone’s “Feeling Good “ ). We also use the
from your government and if so what
GLP’s offices are in our own apartment
kind of support is being offered?
building in Vienna, so thank god we don’t
have to deal with any rent issues.
The staff of GLP has gone into what is
called “reduced work” – so since April
On a financial basis – the past few years have
everybody works only 10% of the time and
been highly profitable so GLP has a solid
the government pays 85 % of the salaries
base to get through these challenging times.
of our staff. This is granted to more or less all companies in Austria. Also I applied for a
How has your everyday work changed?
grant to establish our home office system.
Are you working from home etc.? So all in all the Austrian government is doing a My daily routine has somewhat changed in
good job to ensure that companies can keep
view of a reduced work load. The GLP Office
going and to avoid high unemployment.
is in the same building so I and a few other
GLP staff members do go to the office. These times have some positive side effects:
8
Georg Leitner
Have you managed to reschedule all the shows you had booked for this period?
VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >
APRIL 2020
Our main task right now is to reschedule
working on new tour formats and touring
this in good shape. I think that the small and
the many shows and tours we had booked
packages for 2021 & 2022.
midsize companies with low overheads will
– e.g. FOREIGNER , KOOL & THE GANG,
be in a good position to survive this .
EARTH WIND & FIRE exp feat Al McKAY,
Are you worried about event saturation
LUIS FONSI etc.
once the ban is lifted?
I am not sure how the big multinational
This is work in progress and we are optimistic
We just celebrated the 40th anniversary of
able to cope with this – there may be a move
that we will re-schedule most of the shows
GLP last year – and we have faced numerous
back to smaller, more flexible companies in
we had booked in 2020 for 2021.
challenges in the past. Rather than worry –
the business.
we are working to gear up GLP for the time
Many of the festivals e.g. Blues fest in
after Corona with fresh ideas & strategies.
Do you have any ideas on how to keep
Australia etc. strive to retain the line up
business rolling during these times?
they had scheduled for 2020 for their
What long term affects do you think the
2021 edition.
current crisis will have on the future of
GLP’s roster includes a wide range of artists
the Live Music Industry?
covering several areas (world, rock, soul,
Are you already booking new shows
blues, classical – as well as show acts such
for later in the year and next year?
Of course this crisis will have a severe affect on
as Vivalidanno, Peter Pan on Ice etc). So this
our industry – and some companies sadly may
diversification as well as our global approach
We are also busy with booking the summer
not survive this. It will take a spirit of fairness
ensure that we will continue to serve the
tour for JULIO IGLESIAS as well as JOSE
and cooperation towards our partners to help
world with 1st class entertainment – which
CARRERAS for December / January
as much as we can, so that we come out of
keeps our business rolling.
entities with their huge overheads will be
and
Sabine Waltz, Agent and Owner at IBD / International Booking Department, Germany How is your company coping with the
How has your everyday work changed?
Are you already booking new shows for
current crisis?
Are you working from home etc.?
later in the year and next year?
As many others not good of course, no
My everyday work has not changed, my
Yes I’ve already booked several tours for the
income since March. I had to postpone all
office is @ our house. But I am having more
fall/winter and for spring 2021
my May tours until the fall and to 2021 and
problems reaching people.
no-one knows whats going to happen in the
Are you worried about event saturation
fall and winter of 2020/21.
Have you received any financial support
once the ban is lifted?
from your government and if so what kind of support is being offered?
Yes of course, we will definitely face this situation especially with smaller new acts.
Bavaria was first offering support for small
Also people will not buy tickets way in
companies, I received 5000 euro but it took
advance anymore, so even when the ban is
5 weeks and I am waiting since 2 weeks for
lifted it’s not going to be over for us.
the balance payment. I know many who are still waiting for the
What long term affects do you think the
“Soforthilfe”- It’s of course not enough to
current crisis will have on the future of
survive 6 months without income.
the Live Music Industry?
Sabine Waltz
Have you managed to reschedule all the
Good question; I think this will affect
shows you had booked for this period?
the live music industry for many years, depending on how long this will take, clubs
Yes I have. But I started very early.
and smaller promoters might not survive,
9
VIP NEWS > INDEPTH STORY >
APRIL 2020
promoters will and might not be able to
many of us won’t be here anymore. It’s a
We just have to sit it out I guess, believe in
pay what we need to produce a tour.
culture suicide.
what we do and hope. IBD started 34 years
ago and trust me, the company has been
Right now the situation is already bad, very
Do you have any ideas on how to keep
through a lot of hard times but this one is
bad and if this will continue until next year
business rolling during these times?
the worse situation I’ve ever had but I am not ready to give up. Besides Laibach and Die Krupps I only have smaller acts touring in 2020 because I think that the smaller the act the better the chances are that it will happen. I postponed all my North American bands to 2021 and have booked European acts for this year only. I wish everyone the best of luck, don’t
Laibach
give up please.
Gad Oron - Owner/Promoter at O.G. Music Business, Israel How is your company coping with the
No, show business is one of the industries
Are you worried about event saturation
current crisis?
that the government disregards, nothing has
once the ban is lifted?
been offered so far, thus other matters that Total lockdown – I’m lucky to have a fully
promoters experience on a local level such
I’m an optimistic promoter, but I cannot
equipped home office and am trying to spend
as wars, and others state of emergencies in
predict, I will be ready to go full steam
a few hours a day keeping myself busy.
Israel take precedence so I’m not expecting
ahead and will study the new situation and
any assitance from the government.
act accordingly.
How has your everyday work changed?
Are you working from home etc.?
Have you managed to reschedule all the
What long term affects do you think the
shows you had booked for this period?
current crisis will have on the future of the Live Music Industry?
Yes I work from my home office, my house is out of town so I spend the day in the office
Some of those shows that are close as well
trying to keep my staff with hope that this
as those planned for the next 6 months have
I’m afraid that a global economic recession
nightmare will end soon.
been postponed to the winter (mainly indoor
will influence things on one side, especially
shows) and others (such as outdoor shows)
with ticket prices, and on the others side
Have you received any financial support
have been postponed until next Summer.
I’m curious to find out how the talent and
from your government and if so what
others services we are using will behave on
kind of support is being offered?
Are you already booking new shows for
that matter.
later in the year and next year? Outdoor shows might be the most immediate I avoid watching a future in such situations,
events to be re-activated in the industry.
so to be on the safe side, I’m trying to book
for next year, but it takes “2 to tango” and
Do you have any ideas on how to keep
part of the talent and agents side of the
business rolling during these times?
industry is also on hold, I believe that as soon
Gad Oron
10
as the panic is over and both sides get used
I decided for myself to keep less active in
to the new routine and day to day operation,
2020 and am looking forward to 2021 &
“action will start”.
2022
VIP NEWS >
APRIL 2020
VIP News Views by Charlie Presburg
This month’s ‘VIP-News Views’ finds most of us in some
back stronger than ever. How the live industry will look when
form of lockdown with the live music and entertainment
it resurfaces is another matter altogether. Sadly, with so
industry sadly very much on hold. Strange times indeed
many businesses affected by COVID-19, some of the smaller
and something that none of us could hardly have foreseen
companies won’t be able to survive. We know that the live
during Eurosonic back in January. As the ILMC was taking
industry in general is looking to its respective governments
place in London in March, we were certainly aware of the
for help and financial support. Certainly in the UK, the
world situation with regard to COVID-19 and it’s potential
72% of people working in the music industry who are self
impending effect on all of us working in this industry. As I
employed are hoping for some kind of financial support,
write this, the UK is in it’s fifth week of lockdown and like
only time will tell how this will pan out. Many of these live
so many people out there, daily life is split between working
music professionals of course are partly responsible for quite
from home, home schooling and keeping a close eye on
literally putting our concerts, tours and festivals together,
the daily news. One saving grace is that the weather in the
be they tour managers, lighting and sound crew or those
Somerset village where I live has been wonderful so lots of
involved in the transportation of equipment.
walks have been had, making one briefly forget and escape the craziness of the world around us.
For many of our clients at VIP-Booking, daily life seems to be largely focused on re-scheduling shows for either later this
It seems that every day, we are reading about another festival
year or early next year, a mammoth task for so many people.
cancellation, amongst the UK festival cancellations are
We at VIP-Booking are doing our best to reach out to as many
Glastonbury, Download and the Isle of Wight to name a few.
of our clients as possible in the hope that we can facilitate
The German live industry recently announced the cancellation
this and help and support people as much as we can. We
of its summer events happening through to the end of
would like to extend our thoughts to all those who have been
August, these include Wacken, Southside, Hurricane as well
personally affected by this unprecedented situation.
as Rock am Ring and Rock im Park both celebrating their their 25 and 35 year anniversaries respectively. Similar situations
On April 23rd, VIP-Booking,com held its first webinar
of course are happening across Europe with the cancellation
featuring key industry people which was very well attended
of events including Belgium’s Rock Werchter, Pukkelpop,
by professionals from across the world. Aside from discussing
Dour and Tomorrowland as well as Eurockeennes, Solidays
the current effect of the world situation on the live industry,
and Festival D’Avignon in France and Roskilde, Northside and
it was very obvious that people were extremely pleased to
Tinderdox in Denmark and Pohoda Festival in Slovakia, I could
see each other. These webinars will be a regular event, we
go on but I won’t, it makes somewhat depressing reading.
will let you know about the next one so please get involved whenever you are able to, we value your opinons.
With so many people ‘stuck’ at home, there has of course been a huge rise and proliferation in the streaming of live
One thing for sure is that when the current situation starts to
shows and events to keep us entertained, some artists even
settle down and people can begin working again on building
including their family members. Indeed, The World Health
tours, booking festivals and live events, I am sure that this
Organisation recently announced the One World Together At
incredible industry that we work in will prevail and be in
Home Event, scheduled for April 18th, artists performing in
greater demand than ever.
support of frontline healthcare workers include Elton John, Paul McCartney, Andrea Bocelli and Lizzo.
Stay Safe!
What is clear is that at some stage, our industry will return to
Charlie Presburg
some semblance of normality and order and we will bounce
Area Sales Manager, VIP-Booking.com
11
STICHTING EUROSONIC NOORDERSLAG
VIP NEWS >
APRIL 2020
Live Nation rolls out refund plan From VIP-Daily News
Live Nation, the company that owns Ticketmaster, has announced
refund plan, ticket holders had already begun filing lawsuits prior
plans for a new ticket refund policy that begins May 1st., the plan
to the announcement.
is specific in offering refunds to rescheduled events, giving ticket holders up to 30 days to claim refunds for an event once the
A San Fransisco ticket holder has filed a lawsuit against Ticketmaster
rescheduled dates for said event have been announced.
claiming “deceptive practices relating to their sale of live events tickets and refusal to provide refunds for live events that have been
In addition, Live Nation is also offering ticket holders the option to
rescheduled or postponed.” The ticket holder purchased $600
receive up to 150% the value of their previously purchased tickets,
worth of tickets for Rage Against The Machine’s reunion tour,
which can be used for a future show.
which currently the first set of dates are postponed (March 26thMay 20th).
Live Nation is officially offering refunds to postponed shows but on a rolling basis, i.e. once the rescheduled dates have been announced.
There are still several summer tours that have yet to postpone
The company also notes that this plan was not in response to the
or reveal postponed dates. Early on, progressive metal icons Tool
criticism they`ve received over the last few weeks.
announced they were postponing their late spring tour, but didn’t offer any incite on to refunds or rescheduled dates. Mötley Crüe
In total Ticketmaster has canceled and/or postponed 30,000 events
and Def Leppard make up another huge rock tour, and they’ve yet
due to the pandemic, and presumably more events will follow later
to announce anything in regards to postponement, cancellation,
this year. While the company only recently laid out it’s revised
or rescheduling.
13
VIP NEWS >
APRIL 2020
Cultural centres joining forces to bring hope From VIP-Daily News Four cultural, concert and event centres across
Aivar Mäe, General Manager of Estonian
gotten through this, first and foremost by
the Nordic hemisphere will be lit in green, the
National
supporting each other”, says Svanhildur
colour of hope, to show respect to everyone
“Through this gesture, we want to bring
struggling from the current situation and to
hope and some light into people’s hearts. We
remind us of more hopeful times ahead.
also want to send a message to all the people
Kristiina Alliksaar, the Director of Vanemuine
Opera
and
Ballet
continues:
in the world that once this crisis is over, all of
explains the joint decision for the colour:
Leading cultural and concert centres from
us working in culture welcome our audiences
“Green symbolizes hope and harmony, and
three countries across the Nordic hemisphere
back with open hearts.”
this is what we hope for everybody, wherever
have joined forces in a campaign to bring
they might be and whatever their situation. In
hope to people, show respect and support
The cultural centres are aware of their key role
some parts of the world it is also the symbol
to everyone facing the crisis. These cultural
in bringing back hope, trust and economical
for change. This crisis has already demanded
centres will be lit in green every night from
activity once the crisis is over. “Those of us
a lot of creativity from everyone. We are
Thursday, April 9th onwards for the time
working in culture, arts and events have
convinced that the new challenges, and the
being. The campaign wishes to show support
a big responsibility in keeping hope alive
need for innovation in our societies will be
to everyone in these trying times: healthcare
and continuing to share as much beautiful,
met with the support of the arts and culture.”
professionals, volunteers, parents, people
inspirational music as we can. By doing so
suffering from loneliness or illness, the elderly
we remind people of the importance and
The following cultural and events centres will
and other people in quarantine, artist and all
relevance of arts and culture – particularly in
be lit in green from April 9th onwards, every
the others whose livelihood is threatened,
times of deep crisis such as the one we are
night: Tampere Hall and Tampere Opera in
and all those whose lives have been affected
all living through today. These trying times
Finland, Harpa in Iceland, Estonian National
by the virus.
will end and then we´ll come together again
Opera and Ballet and the Concert Hall in
in our shared spaces and cultural centres to
Estonia and Vanemuine Theatre in Estonia
celebrate our common humanity and having
(lighting from sunset to sunrise).
These centres also want to invite anyone working in culture, music and events to join them in this campaign (#lightitupgreen), and send a public call for everyone to join. In doing so they also want to highlight the importance of international outreach even if the physical borders are now temporarily closed. ”Even though social distancing is preventing us from being close together, it is vital that we do not try to fight this alone. I am grateful to all our international friends in the culture and events industry for their endless support and help, for coming together also during this crisis, and for sharing their innovations and best practices so generously. We welcome everyone working in culture, music and events to join us in this campaign; it is more important than ever to cross boundaries and to seek for international perspective, learning and support”, states Ms. Paulina Ahokas, CEO of Tampere Hall.
14
Konráðsdóttir, CEO of Harpa.
Venues lit in Green
VIP NEWS >
NAMES & JOBS
APRIL 2020
Peter Briggs - 20 years with VIP-Booking.com From VIP-Daily News On April 1st Peter Briggs celebrated his 20th anniversary as General
Since Peter lives in Sweden with his family, he initially focused on the
Manager at VIP-Booking.com, being one of the first employees
Swedish Live Music Industry and with his native English background
when the company was founded in 2000.
he soon became Key Account Manager with clients worldwide. Over the years he has developed together with the company and is now
If you have attended one of the major Live Music conferences over
General Manager, dealing with sales and handling partnerships.
the past 20 years you have probably met Peter, he knows “almost” everyone worth knowing in the Live Music Industry and has a
“Peter is a big part of VIP-Booking’s success over the past 20 years.
history of endless visits to bars and venues and is often the last
He is a very structured person, pretty unique in the Live Music
man standing at closing time. People attending ILMC in London,
Industry. Besides working closely together for many years, we
probably remember seeing Peter hobbling around with an injured
have also developed a long friendship and he is one of the finest
leg after joining the conference football match at Wembley stadium
people that I have ever met, with a trustworthy and open-minded
some years back.
personality.” says Ronni Didriksen, founder of VIP-Booking.com
Talking of football, Peter is a passionate Arsenal supporter and a
“Long before I joined VIP-Booking.com, I had met Peter at the various
true Gunner in every sense of the word. In fact his biggest concern
conferences I attended during my many years at Pollstar, I always
when travelling around the world for VIP-Booking, is to find a local
considered him to be very open and honest, a true gentleman. Since
bar showing an Arsenal match.
joining VIP Booking in 2012, I count him not just a work colleague but also a true friend, very professional with a deep knowledge of
On a more serious note, Peter is a highly reliable business man, always
the industry and a great sense of fun!” Charlie Presburg, Area Sales
true to his word and very highly respected by everyone in the industry.
Manager, VIP-Booking.com.
15
VIP NEWS > BUSINESS >
MUSIC IN SHARES
APRIL 2020
Music In Shares Manfred Tari mt@vip-booking.com
Too big to Fail?
Last reported share price on March 25 was 37.38 Euro, on April 23 it is 38.56 Euro...
A rhetorical question, but nevertheless considerable: Particularly in times of the Corona crisis when even billionaires such as Richard
DEAG - A small decrease
Branson are asking for public funding. At a time when the business model of the global concert industry went from hero to zero over
Not surprising for the share price of DEAG is the speculative
night, the question of survival basically breaks down to the factors
momentum . Down from 3.62 Euro as reported in the previous issue,
of liquidity versus time.
the share price now is 3.17 Euro...
Individually there are of course various components to be considered
Eventbrite - Statement Against Social Distancing Protests
within the mathematical considerations of the survival rate of companies. Since these days that of cash flow became a theoretical
Besides Eventbrite’s laying off of 45 per cent of its staff, the company
figure, not only for concert companies, there are further aspects
lately announced the withdrawal of posts on its website promoting
such as fixed assets and payments to be considered.
protest events against public stay at home orders.
In fact credit lines and debts appear highly crucial in these times. To
In the meantime the share price of the company went up from $7.45
keep it brief, prominent players in the entertainment industry such
to $8.57 when this report went to press...
as CAA, WME, Paradigm, Superstruct or United Talent financed their recent growth strategies with the help of external investors.
Live Nation - Stability Seeking
A good example is how the secondary ticketing company Viagogo financed the take over of Stubhub from Ebay for $4 billion. The
The share price movements of Live Nation indicate a mix of concerns
figure of $4 billion furthermore appears as the figure for debts in
and confidence these days. Down from $42.99 on March 25 to $38.2
the balance sheets for Live Nation and WME.
this time...
At least it is known that Eventbrite, Paradigm, Stubhub and WME
Spotify - The Magic of Streaming
layed off staff, while it is widely reported that CAA, Live Nation and United Talent are initiating pay cuts.
For the time being streaming ranks high when people are urged to stay at home! Up from $129 to $139...
In all these reports the term “for the time being” appears for all players in the concert business to be the leading answer for the
Tencent - A small increase
consideration, ‘liquidity versus time.’ At least in terms of the share price development of corporate concert companies the next milestone will be set when the results for the second quarter of 2020 are published.
CTS Eventim - Considering to Ask for Financial Aid According to recent media reports, CTS Eventim is apparently considering the option to apply for public financial aid. Unlike the global player Live Nation, CTS Eventim emphasized in the news that they were free of debts.
16
Better than nothing: From $9.94 up to $11.13...
VIP NEWS > MISC >
APRIL 2020
MEMBER PRESENTATION
This space is dedicated to present some of our clients using VIP-Booking.com. Companies presented here have our best endorsement...
ARTIST AVAILS BEAUTIFUL BADNESS Territory: Worldwide Period: 2020 - 2021 Agency: A.A. Productions SPRL Agent: Nicolas Gamin Phone: +32 479 528 066 E-mail: nicolas@next-step.be Homepage: www.next-step.be/artist/11-beautiful-badness
KAREN MÉNDEZ Territory: Worldwide Period: 3 years Agency: Be Real Agency Agent: Paul Fourmy Phone: +32 485 365 696 E-mail: paul@bereal.agency Homepage: www.realkeymusic.com
OUMAR KONATE Territory: worldwide Period: 2020 Agency: Clermont Music Agent: Chris Nolan Phone: +1 518 755 5089 E-mail: chrisanolan3@clermontmusic.com Homepage: www.clermontmusic.com/oumar-konate/
CSB Island Entertainment ApS CSB Island Entertainment ApS is one of the leading artist and show promoters in Scandinavia. With more than 20 years experience, we build strong partnerships that bring only the biggest and best entertainment to audiences in our region. Our local
SAUDADE Territory: Worldwide Period: 2020-2021 Agency: A.A. Productions SPRL Agent: Nicolas Jaumain Phone: +32 479 528 066 E-mail: nicolas@next-step.be Homepage: www.next-step.be/artist/127-saudade
and our global partners trust us for our reliability, professionalism and our solution orientated focus. Every country is different and every region has its own challenges and opportunities. Knowing who to contact and how is essential. In Scandinavia, our home advantage and natural understanding of our markets helps us know where to focus to make our events a success. The result is better quality entertainment for the audience and better potential for future business.
About Our Company VIP-Booking’s core product is the largestdatabasefor the European Live Entertainment Industry www.vip-booking.comdeveloped as a tool for industry professionals. Since it’s launch in the year 2000, we have consistently offered our subscribers the very best in database services and now boast subscribersin over 50 countries.
MAMADOU KELLY Territory: Worldwide Period: 2020 Agency: Clermont Music Agent: Chris Nolan Phone: +1 518 755 5089 E-mail: chrisanolan3@clermontmusic.com Homepage: www.clermontmusic.com/mamadou-kelly/
THE GOLDEN YEARS OF MUSIC TOURS Territory: Worldwide Period: Generally available Agency: Cheyenne Productions Agent: Patrick rocher Phone: +1 928 852 0032 E-mail: cheyenprod@msn.com Homepage: www.thegoldenyearsofmusictours.com
MORE ARTIST AVAILS ON: WWW.VIP-BOOKING.COM POST YOUR ARTIST AVAILS ON: WWW.VIP-BOOKING.COM
Karen Méndez
®
vip-booking.com
17
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1
Use VIP Analytics to lo cate where your artist has the most in terest:
VIP-Booking.com for Agents/Managers
2
ues Use our Tour Builder to locate ven or agents within a given area:
3
Find the Talent B uyer and relevant other contact s:
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