Not everybody that sells tickets has as their goal maximizing revenue. For example, lots of bands work very hard to put on shows that are affordable for their fans. Scalpers taking advantage of the situation is an example of this-is-why-we-can't-have-nice-things.
And I agree that access to affordable shows isn't as important as housing or healthcare, but I think you are very much underestimating the value and importance of the arts in many peoples' lives.
>"For example, lots of bands work very hard to put on shows that are affordable for their fans."
I am not doubting that but there's enough blame to go around on ticket prices. Bands no longer make money selling records. The model of the touring business back when the public bought records was that the tours were used to sell records and except for a small handful of acts artists mostly didn't make money from touring. A concert would generate sales of records in that market, it was a tool to sell records. Now that there is no longer money in records the bands themselves have increased ticket prices extortionately so in many acts cases because this their source of income now and not album sales.
> For example, lots of bands work very hard to put on shows that are affordable for their fans. Scalpers taking advantage of the situation is an example of this-is-why-we-can't-have-nice-things.
Don't believe their hype. If bands wanted to make shows cheaper they only have to do more shows.
>"If bands wanted to make shows cheaper they only have to do more shows."
That's often not feasible. Booking dates depends on a venues schedule. Its often not possible to book a venue for 2 or even 3 nights in a row, especially in primary markets.
And I agree that access to affordable shows isn't as important as housing or healthcare, but I think you are very much underestimating the value and importance of the arts in many peoples' lives.