As an avid lover of live music, I know the highs and lows of purchasing concert tickets. I have cherished memories of watching bands like Sterophonics, Foo fighters, and artists like Olly Murs and Ed sheeran put on riveting performances. Those moments have the power to leap over the barriers of daily life and touch something magic. But recently, this beloved pastime has been tainted by experiences that leave a bitter sting of unfairness.

Inflated ticket prices have become all-too-familiar, with companies like Ticketmaster hiking prices on popular shows to a degree that feels exploitative. When an advertised ticket price has the capacity to triple purely due to popularity, it feels like a subversion of the purpose live music serves: to be a shared experience, accessible for all, not a privilege for the few who can afford outrageous prices.

Sadly, this is not an isolated issue. According to a study in the Journal of Cultural Economics, ticket prices shot up by more than 50% between 1982 and 2017, and the problem is only getting worse. This level of exploitative price inflation is not about covering costs or rewarding artists; it is profiteering at the expense of music fans. As fans, we deserve to purchase tickets at just and reasonable costs.

We need to hold companies who inflate ticket prices accountable and establish a governing body to oversee concert ticket sales. By doing this, we can ensure ticket pricing is fair and that everyone, regardless of their income, can enjoy the electrifying experience of live music.

The music industry shouldn't be mostly about profits; it should be foremost about bringing people together through the power of music. It’s time we reclaim the joy of live gigs and concerts, unburdened by the worry of exploitative costs. Please sign this petition and add your voice to the chorus calling for fairer ticket prices.