A new documentary from Arte TRACKS is examining the growing consolidation of Europe’s live music industry, looking at who controls the continent’s major festivals and venues and what that concentration of ownership could mean for independent music culture.
The 20-minute film examines European festival ownership, focusing on four major promoters: Live Nation, CTS Eventim, AEG, and Superstruct Entertainment. According to Resident Advisor, these companies collectively control over 200 festivals and 100 European venues. It also addresses KKR’s 2024 acquisition of Superstruct Entertainment, placing a major independent operator under a global investment firm and sparking debate over the sector’s financialisation and consolidation.
Featured in the film are CTM Festival curator Michail Stangl and Live DMA’s Erica Romero Pender, who discuss how market concentration threatens independent festival culture, reduces competition, and raises ticket prices. Additionally, DJ AYA addresses the Superstruct boycott campaign, highlighting broader artist and audience responsibilities under investment-backed event ownership.
The documentary arrives as ownership becomes a crucial issue in electronic music. While major promoter groups offer venues and festivals substantial financial backing and global infrastructure, critics contend that market consolidation hinders independent operators.
The full 20-minute documentary is available now via Arte TRACKS‘ YouTube channel.
