Touring Challenges for Avenged Sevenfold
Avenged Sevenfold’s M. Shadows discussed the complexities of touring and stated that it has become “incredibly difficult” for the band to profit from it.
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The Realities of Post-Pandemic Touring
In a recent interview with Bradley Hall on YouTube, frontman M. Shadows (real name Matthew Sanders) elaborated on the realities of touring in a post-pandemic world.
“It’s really crazy because when you reach our level, the entire team consists of A-list members, each being pulled in different directions, resulting in substantial financial demands. More trucks, additional drivers, increased fuel costs, and travel expenses have contributed to a challenging landscape, leading many bands to cancel tours,” he explained.
He continued: “You’ll likely see many more cancellations. I am acutely aware of our position and what we’re experiencing. It is incredibly tough for us as well. If you’re unable to create a setup that confines you to one city without requiring extensive travel, while allowing you to perform multiple nights in the same location, it becomes increasingly difficult. A significant factor in our travels to various countries is the choice between making minimal or no profit in familiar territories, or foraying into new regions with the same financial outcome. The idea was simple: ‘Let’s start a band.’
Challenges Ahead for Touring Bands
M. Shadows pointed out the modern difficulties that bands face while touring, declaring it to be “almost impossible.” He mentioned a notable decline in sales, linked to the current touring challenges.
“Audience reactions to ticket prices during inflationary times have been quite striking. Many people are understandably upset about the costs. It’s astonishing to think that seeing a couple of bands can set you back five or six hundred dollars, or up to a thousand dollars for country acts, and for artists like Taylor Swift, it can even reach $3,200,” he stated.
“There’s a significant controversy stemming from misunderstandings about ticket sales in the music industry, with fingers being pointed. However, the reality is that inflation and rising costs are making it considerably harder for bands to get by. When considering all aspects of a touring band’s life, the situation looks grim. If record labels aren’t selling CDs, they can’t provide touring support. They just can’t generate that revenue anymore. This overall scenario is quite dire. This is why strategic choices are vital in what we undertake.”
Avenged Sevenfold is scheduled to start a European tour later this summer. The 12-day excursion will feature performances at notable festivals, including Tons Of Rock in Norway, Rock For People in the Czech Republic, and Release in Greece. Check out the full list of dates below and visit here to purchase tickets.
