Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced on Mar. 9 that he, along with a coalition of state attorneys general, will continue to pursue an antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation, the parent company of Ticketmaster, for allegedly monopolizing the live entertainment and concert ticketing industry.
The case is significant because it addresses concerns about competition in the live music marketplace and aims to protect consumers from what officials describe as illegal monopoly practices. The coalition’s statement comes after a recent settlement was announced, which they argue does not sufficiently address the harm caused by Live Nation’s actions.
“In May 2024, a bipartisan group of state attorneys general joined the U.S. Department of Justice to sue Live Nation for monopolizing the market for ticketing and using its monopoly power in the concert venue market to reinforce and protect that monopoly. For too long, Live Nation has raked in billions from a monopoly that has made it harder for consumers to see the artists they love, stifled artists and increased the price of tickets for countless music fans,” Raoul said.
He continued: “The case against Live Nation is strong, and the state coalition is committed to holding the company accountable for its illegal behavior, protecting consumers and restoring competition to this market. The settlement recently announced does not adequately remedy the harms to the marketplace for live music and to concertgoers caused by Live Nation. We are willing and able to stand with other partner states to continue litigating this case without the federal government, so that we can hold Live Nation accountable in court and secure appropriate relief in this case.”
Raoul added: “As state attorneys general and antitrust enforcers, we are fully committed to protecting our citizens from illegal monopolies and restoring competition to the live music marketplace.” States joining Illinois include Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
The Illinois Attorney General’s office has advocated for vulnerable groups such as workers, immigrants and seniors according to its official website. It also handles thousands of consumer complaints each year according to its official website.
Additionally,the office aims to protect consumers while promoting safer communities as well as advocating on environmental issues and rights matters. Its advocacy efforts extend across Illinois according to its official website, partnering with law enforcement agencies in support of crime victims while promoting open government according to its official website. The office also offers services such as complaint filing related to consumer fraud or civil rights issues according to its official website.
Looking ahead,the coalition intends to continue litigation independently if necessary in order “to hold Live Nation accountable in court and secure appropriate relief,” according to Raoul.
