Avenged Sevenfold frontman M. Shadows reveals the harsh realities of modern touring economics, highlighting how even successful bands struggle to generate profits in today's music industry landscape.

Photo Credit: Avenged Sevenfold by Stefan Brending (2eight) / CC by 3.0

The band faces significant challenges with touring profitability, leading them to explore new markets globally. Indonesia has become their second-largest market, demonstrating the importance of expanding into emerging territories.

Key factors affecting tour profitability:

• Increased travel expenses
• Rising inflation
• Decreased ticket sales
• Lack of traditional record label tour support
• High operational costs

Regarding ticket pricing, M. Shadows explains the reality behind Ticketmaster's controversial dynamic pricing system. He reveals that artists actively participate in this pricing model, though many prefer to blame Ticketmaster exclusively. While fans prefer profits going to artists rather than resellers, the resulting high ticket prices remain problematic.

Current ticket price examples:

• Country artists: ~$1,000
• Taylor Swift: ~$3,200
• Average multi-band show: $500-600

Despite these challenges, Avenged Sevenfold continues touring, including a 12-date European tour featuring major festivals like Tons Of Rock, Rock For People, and Release. The band also expanded their U.S. presence, performing in new cities like Raleigh, North Carolina, and Manchester, New Hampshire.

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