Attorney General Tong to Continue Case Against Live Nation for Illegally Monopolizing Live Entertainment Industry

(Hartford, CT) – Attorney General William Tong announced today that Connecticut will continue its antitrust case against Live Nation Entertainment, the parent company of Ticketmaster, alleging the company illegally monopolizes the live entertainment industry and concert ticketing services. The announcement comes after a recent settlement reached between the U.S. Department of Justice and Live Nation was deemed insufficient by a coalition of state attorneys general.

Background of the Lawsuit

In May 2024, a bipartisan group of state attorneys general joined the U.S. Department of Justice in filing a lawsuit against Live Nation, accusing the company of monopolizing the ticketing market and leveraging that power in the concert venue market to further solidify its dominance . The lawsuit contends that Live Nation’s practices have harmed consumers by increasing ticket prices, stifling competition, and limiting choices for music fans.

Concerns with the Proposed Settlement

Attorney General Tong stated that the recent settlement does not adequately address the harms caused by Live Nation’s monopolistic behavior. “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,” Tong said in a statement. He emphasized the willingness of Connecticut and other states to continue litigating the case independently of the federal government to secure a more appropriate resolution.

States Joining the Continued Litigation

Connecticut is joined by the following states in continuing the case against Live Nation: Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, 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, as well as the District of Columbia .

Live Nation’s Response

Live Nation has previously defended its business practices, arguing that factors such as increasing production costs, artist popularity, and online ticket scalping are primarily responsible for higher ticket prices . The company maintains that its merger with Ticketmaster, approved during the Obama administration, did not contribute to fan frustration or control ticket prices.

Looking Ahead

The state attorneys general plan to meet this week to discuss strategy and coordinate their efforts without federal government participation . The coalition remains committed to protecting consumers and restoring competition to the live music marketplace.

Media Contact: Elizabeth Benton
elizabeth.benton@ct.gov

Consumer Inquiries: 860-808-5318
attorney.general@ct.gov