What the heck is Artist Arena and how come I keep banging in to them?
Their website indicates they’re “ A leading Artist and Fan Services Company. Utilizing technology to create new income and promotional opportunities for today’s biggest recording artists. Artist arena also specializes in the needs of emerging artists. Artist Arena was founded in 2004 by Internet /Music veteran Mark Weiss”
Services include:
Fan Club Development, ticketing, VIP Sales and Implementation, E commerce, Sponsorship Database Management……. What?
I first learned of this company when I fell in love with Fall Out Boy. Through their fan club (as I have mentioned in other posts) you get a heap load of stuff and opportunities to meet the bands you love and all that jazz. Through this we have met some amazing bands. Pristine clean with no hanky panky.
I have had to call this company a few times regarding issues such as presale codes (Panic! At the Disco had a huge snafu with that on their last go round) or missing membership cards (hey it happens) and I am always treated wonderfully and guess what a real live person answers the phone and that same person helps you out. No kidding, no press 1 for Cobra Starship, press 2 for Reliant K … it’s fantastic.
My most recent surprise visit to AA happened yesterday. I had purchased tickets online for Four Year Strong. The presale indicated ‘big surprises’ and special photos and although meh, whatever its FYS. I DID like the fact that it offered low service fees as opposed to the regular ticketing costs. Again nice surprise and greatly appreciated I call this time as I received my tickets but no info on all this hoopla special stuff. Huh, again not a big deal. But I speak with a gentleman right away who clarifies the info (which will be emailed to me a week prior to the show most likely so I don’t go spilling the beans on this amazing event) thanks ME for my patience and thanks ME for calling.
What I’m getting at here is Rock and Roll is a filthy business. It’s based on debauchery and devil may care power. Right? Iman and I touched on Rock and Roll swagger and apologies, I’m touching now on the renaissance of rock and roll. The image makers, the sweeper uppers so to speak. Are mega management companies harming the up and coming or nearly there rocker? I don’t think so, although I would like to. I think its great, let the musician out of the business, let the business appease the fan and promise them ‘perks’ that once only shirt lifting would get ya. What’s to complain about there? Thanks Mark Weis, party on!