Avenged Sevenfold Vocalist Explains Why It’s So Hard to Make Money Touring

Key Takeaways:

• Touring has become financially challenging in the post-pandemic era.
• Increased expenses in travel and crew have raised touring costs.
• Many bands are canceling tours due to financial struggles.
• Declining ticket sales due to inflation affect revenue.
• Bands are touring new countries to build fanbases despite low profits.

The Rising Costs of Touring

The post-pandemic music industry has been a rough ride, even for established artists. California metalcore stalwarts Avenged Sevenfold recently revealed how “incredibly hard” it’s been to make money off of touring over the past few years.

In a new interview with Bradley Hall, vocalist M. Shadows—real name Matt Sanders—explained that increased travel expenses have made touring much more expensive post-pandemic. “It’s really crazy, because when you get to our kind of level, everybody on the crew is ‘A list’ and they’re all being pulled in different directions, so they all make high-end amounts of money,” Shadows said. “More trucks, more drivers, more gasoline, more travel.”

Impact on Bands of All Levels

These soaring costs are affecting bands across the spectrum. Shadows emphasized, “I know where we’re at. I know what we make. And I know that it’s incredibly hard for us even.” The financial strain isn’t limited to lesser-known artists; even successful bands like Avenged Sevenfold are feeling the pinch.

Canceled Tours and Industry Challenges

“We’ve already seen a lot of bands canceling tours. You’re gonna see a lot more,” Shadows predicted. Financial hardships are forcing many artists to reconsider or postpone their touring plans. The combination of increased expenses and uncertain revenue streams makes touring a risky venture.

Declining Ticket Sales and Audience Challenges

Adding to the difficulties is a noticeable downturn in ticket sales. Shadows explained, “People have been blown out by ticket prices, because of the touring, because of the inflation.” Fans facing economic pressures are less able to afford concert tickets, which directly impacts artists’ earnings.

Strategic Touring in New Markets

Despite these challenges, Avenged Sevenfold is adopting new strategies. “For instance, a big reason we’re going to all these different countries is because we can go to the same countries and make very little to no money, or we can go to new countries and make very little to no money,” Shadows shared. “And so the idea has been, ‘Let’s go build the band out.'”

Looking Forward

“So, yeah, it’s one of those things where, again, going back to touring, touring is very hard right now for bands. It’s almost impossible,” Shadows concluded. The band remains committed to connecting with fans and expanding their reach, even amidst financial hurdles.

Conclusion

Touring in the post-pandemic world presents unprecedented financial obstacles for musicians. Rising costs and declining ticket sales have reshaped the landscape, but bands like Avenged Sevenfold continue to adapt, seeking new ways to thrive in challenging times.