🎸 Oasis, Overpriced Tickets & Scams: The Wild World of Concert Pricing 🎸
When Oasis announced their reunion, fans were thrilled—until they saw the price of tickets. What started as a nostalgic sparkle on the horizon quickly became a PR disaster in outrageous pricing, scams, and dirty tactics in the world of golden tickets. Here’s a rundown from this podcast episode’s highlights on the topic, including tips to help you dodge ticket scams.
Oasis Fans Face new blow in ticket debacle
Oasis fans were initially rejoicing at a comeback they never dreamed possible, but the dream became a nightmare when they were priced out. Tickets initially launched at around £120 but, thanks to “dynamic pricing,” surged to over £400, which felt like a quick bait-and-switch for loyal fans. With the countdown ticking away, fans were left making huge financial decisions with thousand pound baskets under time pressure. And it isn’t just Oasis: other mega-events, like Taylor Swift’s concerts, have seen tickets listed as high as £9,000.
How Dynamic Pricing Works Against Fans
Dynamic pricing pushes ticket prices higher when demand is high, making big events feel almost unattainable for many fans. The hosts dive into the irony of calling Oasis's ticket rush “unexpected”— with this being one of the most anticipated events for music fans in decades, and who is responsible for what feels like greed! And then the second blow, tickets re-sold by touts who hoovered them up to exploit fans, may now be rendered invalid.
Avoiding Ticket Scams and Touts
Ticket scams are as rampant as ever, with touts accused of buying up thousands of tickets and marking them up. Even more devastating perhaps, are the scammers on social media who fake “extra tickets.” Here are some essential tips the hosts recommend for staying safe when buying tickets:
Stick to Official Resale Platforms: Sites like Twickets or Ticketmaster’s resale option are regulated and often offer protections. Avoid buying from third-party sites unless they’re verified and reputable.
Avoid Direct Payments: If someone on social media offers to sell you a ticket, don’t pay by cash transfer or money apps. Use a credit card through a secure payment system, which gives you fraud protection and a way to dispute the transaction and claw money back, even if the seller disappears.
Beware of Suspicious Listings: Fake profiles often look real, with photos and activity, but they’re often hacked or newly created. Check profiles carefully and steer clear of anyone pressuring you to act quickly.
Look for Buyer Protection: Platforms like PayPal can offer some protection for ticket purchases. Use payment methods that allow dispute processes if the ticket turns out to be fake.
Trust your gut: if something feels off, it's best to look elsewhere.
Wait: Closer to the time, genuine people will be looking to rehome their tickets and more dates / tickets may well be released - Vix managed to get a face value ticket to the Eras tour so is a personal example of patience prevailing
The Funny Side of Frustration
Vix and Charlotte add some humor to the ticketing drama, recounting their honest experiences with resale prices, botched ticket hunts, and brainstorms on how to sabotage touts. They also offer practical advice on scoring tickets, surviving concert day, and even bringing snacks for long shows. If you’re navigating the concert ticket maze or want reassurance that you’re not alone in it, this episode is a must-listen.