Despite new artists such as Billie Eilish and Rex Orange County dominating the music scene, classic rock artists topped the charts in 2019 and project to continue that trend into the new year.
According to StubHub, Elton John, The Rolling Stones and Queen, notable 60’s and 70’s musicians, took the top three spots for concert sales in 2019. In fact, StubHub’s top ten sales of 2019 list distinctly lacked contemporary pop artists, with Ariana Grande and Justin Timberlake as the only representation for modern popular music. Others on the list included Billy Joel and Paul McCartney even though most of the top artists have not released new music for several years. The popularity of these revival concerts connects to the nostalgia of original fans and intrigue of new fans introduced to the artists through blockbuster biographical movies such as “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Rocket Man.”
Rumors of more reunion tours have circulated social media, including AC/DC, Bob Jovi and Bruce Springsteen. The concerts provide an opportunity for original fans to witness a live performance of a lifelong favorite and new fans to indulge in a new interest, allowing for collective enjoyment and growth of a fan base.
Although the music industry continues to evolve and develop with new artists emerging every year, classic rock and roll refuses to fade in the background.
