Statement from CIVL on the FTC Lawsuit Against Live Nation & Ticketmaster

The Chicago Independent Venue League (CIVL) strongly supports the Federal Trade Commission’s lawsuit against Live Nation and Ticketmaster for their alleged illegal ticket resale practices and deceptive tactics that have harmed artists, independent venues, and fans for years.

We thank the FTC, the Illinois Attorney General, and their partners for standing with us. Real accountability in ticketing will mean more money stays in Chicago supporting musicians, venue staff, and our creative communities; and it will make Chicago’s vibrant live music scene more accessible to everyone who loves attending shows.

By holding Live Nation and Ticketmaster accountable, it opens the door to greater transparency, more equitable ticket access, and better protections for our independent venues that serve as cultural hubs and economic engines in our neighborhoods.

CIVL also applauds the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) for its steadfast leadership and advocacy for independent venues nationwide; and we are proud to stand with NIVA as they continue championing fair access and transparent ticketing practices for everyone who loves live music.

CIVL calls on policymakers at every level to keep pushing for reforms: ban speculative ticket sales, require honest pricing, and cap exorbitant resale fees. We are hopeful that the outcome of this lawsuit will strengthen Chicago’s independent venues and protect the concert-going public now and for generations to come.

— Jimalita Tillman & Chris Bauman, Co-Chairs, Chicago Independent Venue League