What's happened
Multiple high-profile artists, including Bon Jovi, FKA Twigs, Mandy Patinkin, and Avenged Sevenfold, are announcing tours across North America for 2026. These include concerts in New York, Edinburgh, and nationwide, with ticket prices ranging from $39 to over $120, reflecting a resurgence in live entertainment amid ongoing industry investments.
What's behind the headline?
The resurgence of live tours in 2026 signals a strategic industry pivot towards experiential entertainment. Artists like Bon Jovi and FKA Twigs are leveraging large venues and elaborate productions to attract audiences seeking authenticity and community. This trend is reinforced by the decline in streaming subscriptions among younger demographics, who now prefer in-person events for social and cultural engagement.
The pricing strategies, with tickets ranging from $39 to over $120, suggest a balancing act between accessibility and profitability. The industry’s forecasted revenue growth from $16 billion in 2025 to $17.3 billion in 2030 indicates confidence in this model. Moreover, the emphasis on collaborations and innovative performances, such as FKA Twigs’ experimental shows and Bon Jovi’s re-released album with star-studded collaborations, demonstrates a focus on creating memorable, high-value experiences.
This shift benefits artists and venues but also signals a potential rebound for local economies through increased tourism and event spending. However, the high ticket prices could limit access for some fans, raising questions about the long-term sustainability of this model. Overall, the industry’s move towards immersive, community-focused live entertainment will likely continue to grow, reshaping how audiences engage with music and performance arts.
What the papers say
The articles from Business Insider UK and NY Post provide contrasting perspectives on the upcoming tours. Business Insider UK emphasizes the economic and experiential benefits of the subscription-based model, highlighting how it offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional movie-going and other entertainment expenses. Juliana Kaplan notes that 'the economics increasingly make sense' for consumers, with subscriptions providing nearly unlimited access at a fixed monthly fee.
In contrast, the NY Post articles focus on the artists’ perspectives and specific tour details, such as Bon Jovi’s return to Edinburgh after a long hiatus and FKA Twigs’ innovative 'Body High Tour.' The coverage underscores the artists’ efforts to reconnect with fans and push creative boundaries, with ticket prices ranging from $53 to over $120, indicating a premium experience.
While Business Insider underscores the broader consumer trend towards value-driven entertainment, the NY Post highlights the strategic planning and artistic innovation behind these tours. Both perspectives suggest a vibrant, evolving live entertainment landscape that balances economic viability with artistic expression.
How we got here
The articles highlight a renewed interest in live performances, driven by artists' desire to reconnect with audiences after years of pandemic restrictions and streaming dominance. The industry is investing heavily in experiences, with artists like Bon Jovi and FKA Twigs planning extensive tours, supported by a broader trend of in-person entertainment growth. This shift is partly a response to the decline of traditional streaming and the increasing value placed on unique, phone-free experiences.
Go deeper
Common question
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Which Artists Are Touring in 2026 and Where?
As 2026 approaches, fans are eager to know which artists will be hitting the road and where they can catch their favorite acts live. With major tours announced by artists like Bon Jovi, FKA Twigs, and Avenged Sevenfold, there's a lot to look forward to. Curious about tour locations, ticket prices, and what this means for live entertainment? Keep reading to get all the details on the upcoming 2026 tours and industry trends.
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