The live music event industry in the US is a dynamic sector comprised of numerous entities focused on producing unforgettable experiences for concertgoers. From large corporations like Live Nation to smaller boutique event companies, this industry includes promoters, ticketing platforms, and artists' management agencies. It offers a mix of live shows, festivals, and performances that cater to various music tastes. As digital technologies advance, we see an increasing fusion of streaming and live experiences, which enhances fan engagement and expands possibilities for artists. With audiences eager to connect in-person, the future of live music events looks promising and full of innovation.

In 2024, a mix of venture capital firms and corporate giants fueled the live music sector with 18 investors listed here. Based primarily in New York and California, these investors vary significantly in size, from smaller firms like SV Angel to major corporations such as Universal Music Group. Founded mostly after 2000, many investors showed considerable activity with dozens of investments. For instance, companies like 500 Global recorded 98 deals, reflecting growing interest in live music. This spectrum of investors emphasizes the industry's potential to attract funding and power its evolution in the coming years.

Top 18 Live Music Event Investors in the US

1. Government of Canada

• Website: canada.ca
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 137
• LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing needs such as employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In recent years, the Government has also engaged in funding initiatives within the arts sector, particularly live music. Notable transactions include grants to the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra, which raised $516,077, and the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts, which secured $300,000. Additionally, AREA 506 received $150,000 in funding, further illustrating the Government's commitment to supporting live music and cultural events across Canada.

2. Live Nation Entertainment

• Website: livenationentertainment.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn: live-nation

Live Nation Entertainment is a prominent live entertainment company based in Beverly Hills, California, founded in 1996. The company specializes in producing concerts, selling tickets, and connecting brands to music, serving music fans, artists, and brands alike. Live Nation operates globally, managing a vast network of events and artists. Notable transactions include the acquisition of a stake in Rock in Rio, South America's largest music festival, and a controlling stake in UK promoter Cuffe & Taylor, known for events like Greenwich Music Time and Lytham Festival. Additionally, Live Nation acquired a 50% stake in Insomniac Events, the producer of the Electric Daisy Carnival, further emphasizing their interest in the electronic dance music sector. Other significant acquisitions include Ocesa and House of Blues Entertainment, both of which enhance their presence in the live music market.

3. 500 Global

• Website: 500.co
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 98
• LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Among their notable transactions, 500 Global has invested in The Ticket Fairy, which raised $2.5 million in a seed round in June 2019, and $485,000 in another seed round in May 2015. The Ticket Fairy is known for its ticketing solutions tailored for live events, making this investment particularly relevant to the live music sector. Additionally, they invested in WillCall, which raised $50,000 in a seed round in May 2011, and Peatix, which raised $1 million in July 2012, both of which are platforms that facilitate event management and ticketing. These investments highlight 500 Global's engagement with companies that operate within the live music and event industry, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative solutions in this space.

4. Y Combinator

• Website: ycombinator.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 802
• LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It specializes in providing funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that includes resources like the Startup School and co-founder matching services. Over the years, Y Combinator has successfully launched more than 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable investments in the live music event context are Songkick, which raised $15,000 in a Pre-Seed round in 2007, and Gigwell, which secured $120,000 in a Pre-Seed round in 2016. Additionally, Y Combinator has invested in Laylo, which raised significant amounts in Seed and Venture rounds, indicating its active role in supporting companies that contribute to the live music industry.

5. Warner Music Group

• Website: wmg.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: warner-music-group

Warner Music Group Corp. is a prominent music company based in New York, specializing in recorded music and music publishing. Founded in 1958, the company has a significant presence in the music industry, providing a range of services to artists and songwriters, including music distribution and rights management. Notably, Warner Music Group has made strategic acquisitions that enhance its position in the live music context, such as the acquisition of Songkick in 2017, a concert discovery service that connects fans with live events. This move reflects Warner's commitment to engaging with the live music sector. Additionally, their acquisitions of high-profile artists' catalogs, such as David Guetta and Spinnin' Records, further solidify their influence in the music industry, although these transactions are more focused on recorded music. Overall, Warner Music Group's activities indicate a broader interest in the music ecosystem, including live events.

6. Universal Music Group

• Website: universalmusic.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1934
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• Number of deals in 2024: 9
• LinkedIn: universalmusicgroup

Universal Music Group (UMG) is a prominent music production company based in Santa Monica, California, founded in 1934. UMG offers a wide range of services including music production, artist management, and distribution, supporting artists and songwriters in navigating the music industry. The company operates globally, engaging with a diverse range of artists. Notably, UMG has made strategic acquisitions that enhance its involvement in live music. For example, the acquisition of Office Augusta in 2017 aimed to bolster UMG's capabilities in live music, merchandise, and fan clubs. Additionally, UMG's acquisition of Mavin Records in 2024, a leading record label in Nigeria, further expands its artist roster and potential for live music events. These transactions highlight UMG's commitment to the live music sector and its role in promoting artists through live performances.

7. Goodwater Capital

• Website: goodwatercap.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Burlingame, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 41
• LinkedIn: goodwater-capital

Goodwater Capital is a venture capital firm based in Burlingame, California, founded in 2014. The firm specializes in consumer technology and supports seed-stage entrepreneurs by providing investment, resources, and a community to help them grow. Goodwater Capital has a diverse investment portfolio that spans various sectors, including healthcare and financial services, but it has also made notable investments in the live entertainment industry. For instance, they participated in significant funding rounds for Fever, a live-entertainment platform that has raised over $337 million in total, reflecting the growing demand for real-life experiences. Additionally, their investment in Discotech, a platform that connects users to nightlife events, further highlights their involvement in the live music and entertainment space. This combination of investments positions Goodwater Capital as a relevant player in the live music event sector.

8. FJ Labs

• Website: fjlabs.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 169
• LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, specializing in marketplace and network effect businesses. Founded in 2015, the firm has made over 1,000 investments, with a focus on providing capital and strategic guidance to startups across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. Among their notable transactions in the live music event context are their investments in SeatGeek, which raised $62 million in a Series C round and is a key player in the ticketing industry for live events. They also invested in Afterparty, which raised $3 million in a seed round, and Ingresse, which raised a total of $6.18 million in Series B funding, both of which are platforms that facilitate live events and ticketing. These investments highlight FJ Labs' engagement in the live music event sector, showcasing their commitment to supporting businesses that enhance the live event experience.

9. Sony Music Entertainment

• Website: sonymusic.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1929
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• Number of deals in 2024: 13
• LinkedIn: sony-music-entertainment

Sony Music Entertainment is a music entertainment company based in New York, specializing in music production, distribution, and artist management. Founded in 1929, the company serves a diverse customer base, including music listeners and artists, by providing platforms for music access and career development. In recent years, Sony Music has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the live music event industry. Notably, in May 2023, they acquired a majority stake in Proactiv Entertainment, a Spanish live events company known for producing concerts and immersive experiences. Additionally, in October 2020, they acquired a majority stake in Terrapin Station Entertainment, focusing on creating family-centric tours and events. These transactions highlight Sony Music's commitment to expanding its live entertainment offerings, alongside its traditional music production and distribution activities.

10. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

• Website: av.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2023
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 258
• LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

The Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Notably, the fund has participated in significant transactions within the live music event context, including a $30 million investment in Gametime, a platform for last-minute game, concert, and show tickets, which highlights their engagement in the ticketing space. Additionally, they have invested in LineLeap, a company that raised over $7 million in 2024, further indicating their interest in event-related ventures. These investments reflect the fund's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the live music and event industry.

11. Bloomberg Philanthropies

• Website: bloomberg.org
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: bloomberg-philanthropies

Bloomberg Philanthropies is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2007, based in New York City. It focuses on addressing critical social issues through philanthropy, operating in various sectors including public health, education, environmental advocacy, and the arts. The organization employs a data-driven approach to enhance the effectiveness of its initiatives. Notably, in July 2021, Bloomberg Philanthropies provided grants to several organizations that play significant roles in the live music scene, including the Apollo Theater Foundation, St. Ann's Warehouse, and Battersea Arts Centre. These transactions highlight their commitment to supporting cultural institutions that contribute to the live music landscape, thereby improving community engagement and access to the arts.

12. Blackstone

• Website: blackstone.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a leading investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments. Founded in 1985, Blackstone has built a diverse portfolio that includes private equity, real estate, and credit solutions for both institutional and individual investors. Among its notable transactions, Blackstone acquired the NEC Group in 2018 for £800 million, which encompasses key venues like the NEC and Resorts World Arena, pivotal for hosting live music events. In 2017, they also acquired SESAC Holdings, a significant player in music rights management, further solidifying their presence in the music industry. Additionally, their acquisition of PSAV, a global leader in event experiences, showcases their commitment to enhancing live events. These strategic investments reflect Blackstone's focus on building strong businesses and delivering lasting value in the live music and event sectors.

13. Aeg

• Website: aegworldwide.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: aeg

AEG Worldwide is an entertainment and sports management company based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 1994. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, AEG specializes in organizing live events, managing sports franchises, and developing entertainment districts. The company has made significant strides in the live music sector through strategic acquisitions, including The Bowery Presents, Madison House Presents, PromoWest Productions, and notable music venues like Rams Head Live and Showbox at the Market. These acquisitions not only expand AEG's portfolio but also enhance its capabilities in promoting and managing live music events, serving millions of fans and event organizers globally.

14. SV Angel

• Website: svangel.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 44
• LinkedIn: sv-angel

SV Angel is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage and growth-stage technology companies, providing not only financial backing but also strategic advice and access to a vast network of industry experts. Among their notable transactions, SV Angel invested in WillCall, which raised a total of $2.1 million in seed funding in 2012 and 2013, focusing on enhancing the live music experience through ticketing solutions. Additionally, they invested in Viagogo, a significant player in the ticketing industry, which raised $20 million in Series B funding in 2006. These investments highlight SV Angel's engagement with companies that operate within the live music event context, showcasing their potential relevance in this industry.

15. Accel

• Website: accel.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 101
• LinkedIn: accel-vc

Accel is a venture capital firm founded in 1983, based in Palo Alto, California, specializing in investing in startups and early-stage companies primarily in the technology sector. The firm has a global presence with offices in San Francisco, London, India, and China. Notably, Accel has made significant investments in Fever, a company that has raised a total of $50 million across multiple funding rounds (Series A to D) from 2014 to 2019, focusing on enhancing live experiences, including live music events. Additionally, Accel led a $238 million Series E financing round for SeatGeek, a ticketing platform valued at $1 billion, which plays a vital role in the live music event industry by facilitating ticket sales and enhancing the overall experience for attendees. These transactions highlight Accel's active involvement in sectors that intersect with live music events, showcasing their commitment to supporting businesses that contribute to this industry.

16. Plug and Play Tech Center

• Website: plugandplaytechcenter.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Sunnyvale, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 253
• LinkedIn: plug-and-play-tech-center

Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation hub and venture capital firm based in Sunnyvale, California, founded in 2006. They specialize in connecting startups with corporations to foster growth and innovation, offering various programs including accelerator initiatives and investment opportunities. In 2024, they have made 253 investments, showcasing their active role in the venture capital landscape. Among their notable transactions in the live music context, they invested in Musixen, which raised $2 million in a seed round in 2022 and previously $1 million in a pre-seed round in 2021. They also invested in Rock My World Media and Riveting Entertainment Group, both of which are involved in the entertainment sector. These investments highlight Plug and Play's commitment to supporting innovative companies in the live music and entertainment industry.

17. NBCUniversal

• Website: nbcuniversal.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1912
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: nbcuniversal-inc-

NBCUniversal Media, LLC is a prominent media and entertainment company based in New York, offering a diverse range of services including television programming, film production, and amusement park experiences. Founded in 1912, the company operates various platforms such as NBC, Universal Pictures, and the streaming service Peacock. Notably, NBCUniversal has made significant investments in the live music sector, including a 30% minority stake in Opry Entertainment Group for approximately $293 million, which highlights its commitment to the live entertainment industry. This investment values Opry at $1.415 billion and positions NBCUniversal as a key player in the live music event space. Additionally, while NBCUniversal has participated in other funding activities, such as grants to organizations like Teatro Dallas and Zoo Labs, these transactions are less directly related to live music events compared to the Opry investment.

18. The Raine Group

• Website: raine.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 8
• LinkedIn: the-raine-group

The Raine Group is a New York-based investment bank founded in 2009, specializing in advisory and investment services within the technology, media, and telecommunications sectors. They provide services such as mergers and acquisitions advisory, private capital raising, and growth equity investments. The Raine Group has been involved in several notable transactions in the live music and entertainment industry, including their investment in C3 Presents, a leading live event production company known for organizing major music festivals. They also led a significant investment in Rock The Bells, an entertainment platform celebrating hip-hop culture, which highlights their commitment to the music industry. Their diverse portfolio reflects a strategic focus on enhancing growth in the TMT sectors while also engaging with the live music event space.

Live Music Event Insights: Key Investors in the US

Want to find more investors focusing on the live music event industry?

With Inven, you'll also get to know:

• Deal History: Number of deals and their sizes.
• Portfolio: Companies they've invested in.
• Contact data: Key dealmakers, including their emails and phonenumbers.
• ...and much more!