The virus has likely canceled major concerts for the remainder of the year. The world’s largest festival,Coachella, postponed the event until October. Music biz insiders think it will be delayed a second time.
The chairman of AEG Presents said, (quote) “It doesn’t seem likely we are going to open in the fall.”
Crowds will have to feel safe to return to stadiums and arenas. That probably means a vaccine and successful treatments against the coronavirus. Testing sites could pop up at venues, which may require temperature checks and hand-sanitizer stations.
The virus has effectively killed the backstage meet-and-greet experience. The president of Live Nation Entertainment added, (quote) “The hope is that we will have a big summer season in 2021.”
In the meantime, musicians will attempt drive-in concerts and paid live-streams. Mini-residencies would allow an act to perform several nights at theaters less than half-filled for physical distancing purposes. (The New York Times)