Christina Aguilera/ Associated Press The good news: Live Nation, the world's largest concert promoter, has eliminated service charges in June for 700 concerts at its amphitheaters. The bad news: No Twin Cities concerts will benefit from this less-than-benevolent strategy (however, shows at Alpine Valley in East Troy, Wis., will be affected by this temporary policy). Tickets sales are reportedly soft for many Live Nation shows, including the Jonas Brothers and Lilith Fair. "A fan in every seat is our mission this summer," Michael Rapino, Live Nation's CEO said in a statement. "We know that's tough in this economy, so it's our job to find a way to make concerts more affordable." Live Nation has responded with some reduced ticket prices at its 50 amphitheaters, where it profits on parking, food, beverage and merchandise sales. No one is crying for Live Nation even though the promoter last week cancelled summer tours by Christina Aguilera and U2 (rescheduled for next summer and jettisoned three Eagles stadium concerts. The no-service fee applies only for orders at www.livenation.com.
