The Pre-Internet Era of Concert Ticket Buying
The process of buying concert tickets has undergone a significant transformation over the years. Before the advent of the internet, purchasing tickets was a challenging and often unpredictable experience. Fans had to rely on traditional methods, such as waiting in line, using the phone, or sending mail orders, to secure tickets to their favorite concerts. The excitement and anticipation of buying tickets were palpable, but the process was often marred by uncertainty and frustration.
For many music enthusiasts, the thrill of buying concert tickets was an integral part of the overall experience. The pre-internet era of concert ticket buying was characterized by a sense of community and camaraderie, as fans would often gather outside ticket outlets or box offices, sharing stories and tips on how to score the best tickets. However, this era was also marked by the risk of tickets selling out quickly, leaving many fans disappointed and empty-handed.
So, how did people buy concert tickets before the internet? The answer lies in the various methods that were employed during this time. From waiting in line for hours to using ticket brokers and scalpers, fans had to be resourceful and determined to get their hands on concert tickets. In the following sections, we will delve into the different methods of buying concert tickets before the internet and explore the challenges and opportunities that came with each approach.
By examining the pre-internet era of concert ticket buying, we can gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of the ticketing industry and appreciate the convenience and accessibility that online ticketing platforms have brought to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned concert-goer or a newcomer to the world of live music, understanding how concert tickets were bought and sold in the past can provide valuable insights into the current state of the industry.
Waiting in Line: The Original Ticket Buying Experience
For many music fans, waiting in line was the most traditional and straightforward way to buy concert tickets before the internet. This method involved physically visiting a ticket outlet or box office, often located at the venue itself, and waiting in line to purchase tickets. Fans would often arrive early, sometimes even the night before, to secure a good spot in line and increase their chances of getting tickets.
Waiting in line was not just a practical way to buy tickets, but also a social experience that allowed fans to connect with others who shared similar interests. Fans would often share stories, discuss the upcoming concert, and bond over their shared love of music. However, this method also had its drawbacks, such as the risk of tickets selling out quickly, inclement weather, and the physical demands of waiting in line for extended periods.
Some fans would even go to great lengths to secure tickets, such as camping out overnight or traveling long distances to reach the ticket outlet. The excitement and anticipation of waiting in line were palpable, and the sense of accomplishment when tickets were finally secured was unmatched. For many, waiting in line was an integral part of the concert-going experience, and the memories of these experiences are still cherished today.
So, how did people buy concert tickets before the internet? For many, waiting in line was the answer. While this method had its challenges, it also provided a unique and memorable experience that is still remembered fondly by many music fans. In the next section, we will explore another method of buying concert tickets before the internet, using the phone to secure tickets.
Using the Phone: A Risky Business
For those who couldn’t wait in line or preferred the convenience of buying tickets from home, using the phone was a popular alternative. However, this method came with its own set of challenges. Busy signals, long hold times, and the risk of tickets selling out before you could get through were just a few of the obstacles that fans faced when trying to buy concert tickets over the phone.
Phone lines would often be jammed with callers trying to secure tickets, leading to frustration and disappointment for many. The anxiety of waiting on hold, only to be told that tickets were no longer available, was a common experience for many fans. Despite these challenges, many fans persisted, determined to score tickets to their favorite concerts.
Some fans would even use multiple phone lines, enlisting the help of friends and family to increase their chances of getting through. Others would try calling at odd hours, hoping to catch a break and get tickets before they sold out. While these tactics sometimes paid off, they often led to disappointment and frustration.
Buying concert tickets over the phone was a high-stakes game, where the reward was worth the risk for many fans. However, the uncertainty and unpredictability of this method made it a nerve-wracking experience for many. As we’ll explore in the next section, buying tickets by mail was another option for fans, but it came with its own set of challenges and uncertainties.
Mail Order Mayhem: The Uncertainty of Buying Tickets by Mail
Before the internet, buying concert tickets by mail was a common practice, but it came with a lot of uncertainty. Fans would send in their ticket requests with a check or money order, hoping that tickets would still be available by the time their order was processed. This method was often used for fans who lived far from the venue or couldn’t make it to the box office in person.
The process typically involved filling out a ticket order form, which could be obtained from the venue, a local record store, or by sending a self-addressed stamped envelope to the venue. The form would ask for the fan’s ticket request, including the number of tickets, seat location, and payment information. The fan would then mail the completed form and payment to the venue, waiting anxiously to see if their order would be fulfilled.
However, this method was not without its risks. There was always a chance that tickets would sell out before the order was processed, or that the fan’s payment would be lost in the mail. Additionally, fans had no way of knowing if their order had been received or if their tickets were being held. It wasn’t until the tickets arrived in the mail, or a refund was issued, that fans knew for sure if they had secured tickets to the concert.
Despite the uncertainty, buying tickets by mail was a popular option for many fans. It allowed them to purchase tickets from the comfort of their own homes, without having to wait in line or deal with busy phone lines. However, it required a lot of patience and trust in the ticketing system. Fans had to trust that their order would be processed correctly and that their tickets would arrive in time for the concert.
Looking back, buying concert tickets by mail was a far cry from the instant gratification of online ticketing. However, it was a common practice that many fans relied on to score tickets to their favorite concerts. As one fan recalled, “I remember sending in my ticket order form and waiting weeks to hear back. It was nerve-wracking, but it was worth it when I finally got my tickets in the mail.” For many fans, the uncertainty of buying tickets by mail was a small price to pay for the excitement of seeing their favorite artists live in concert.
Ticket Brokers and Scalpers: The Wild West of Concert Tickets
In the pre-internet era, ticket brokers and scalpers played a significant role in the concert ticket buying experience. These individuals or companies would purchase tickets with the intention of reselling them at a profit, often at inflated prices. While some fans saw ticket brokers and scalpers as a necessary evil, others viewed them as opportunistic and exploitative.
Ticket brokers would often buy up large quantities of tickets and then resell them to fans at a markup. This practice was not always transparent, and fans may not have known that they were buying from a broker rather than the venue or promoter directly. Scalpers, on the other hand, would typically buy tickets with the intention of reselling them outside the venue or at other locations, often at highly inflated prices.
Using ticket brokers and scalpers came with risks, as fans had no guarantee that the tickets were legitimate or that they would actually receive them. Additionally, the prices charged by these individuals or companies could be exorbitant, making it difficult for fans to afford tickets. However, for some fans, using ticket brokers and scalpers was the only way to get tickets to popular concerts or events.
Despite the risks, some fans saw ticket brokers and scalpers as a necessary part of the concert ticket buying experience. They provided a way for fans to get tickets to sold-out shows or to purchase tickets at the last minute. However, the lack of regulation and transparency in the industry made it difficult for fans to know what they were getting into.
As one industry expert noted, “The ticket broker and scalper market was like the Wild West. There were no rules, and it was every person for themselves.” While some fans were able to navigate this market successfully, others were left feeling frustrated and exploited.
Today, the rise of online ticketing platforms and increased regulation have changed the way ticket brokers and scalpers operate. However, the legacy of these individuals and companies continues to shape the concert ticket buying experience. As fans look back on the pre-internet era, they remember the challenges and risks of using ticket brokers and scalpers, but also the excitement and thrill of scoring tickets to their favorite concerts.
How to Score Concert Tickets the Old-School Way
Buying concert tickets in the pre-internet era required a combination of strategy, persistence, and luck. For fans who wanted to score tickets to popular concerts, it was essential to be prepared and flexible. Here are some tips and strategies for successfully buying concert tickets the old-school way:
First, it was crucial to have a good understanding of the ticket buying process. Fans needed to know when tickets went on sale, where to buy them, and what methods were available (in person, phone, or mail). They also needed to be aware of any ticket limits or restrictions that may have been in place.
For fans who wanted to buy tickets in person, it was essential to arrive early at the box office or ticket outlet. This often meant waiting in line for hours or even days, but it was a necessary step to secure tickets. Fans who were unable to wait in line could try calling the box office or ticket outlet, but this method came with its own set of challenges, including busy signals and long hold times.
Another strategy was to use the mail order method, which allowed fans to purchase tickets by mail. However, this method came with its own set of risks, including the uncertainty of not knowing if tickets were available or if the order would be fulfilled.
For fans who were unable to get tickets through traditional means, using a ticket broker or scalper may have been an option. However, this method came with its own set of risks, including the potential for counterfeit tickets or inflated prices.
Ultimately, buying concert tickets in the pre-internet era required a combination of persistence, flexibility, and luck. Fans who were able to navigate the different ticket buying methods and strategies were often rewarded with tickets to their favorite concerts.
As one industry expert noted, “Buying concert tickets in the pre-internet era was an art form. Fans had to be creative and resourceful to score tickets to popular concerts.” While the process may have been challenging, it was also a fun and exciting experience for many fans.
For those who are wondering how did you buy concert tickets before the internet, the answer is that it was a complex and often frustrating process. However, it was also a time of great excitement and anticipation, as fans eagerly awaited the opportunity to see their favorite artists live in concert.
The Impact of Technology on Concert Ticket Buying
The advent of the internet and online ticketing platforms has revolutionized the way concert tickets are bought and sold. Gone are the days of waiting in line for hours or dealing with busy signals and long hold times. Today, fans can purchase tickets from the comfort of their own homes, 24/7.
Online ticketing platforms such as Ticketmaster, Live Nation, and StubHub have made it easier for fans to buy and sell tickets. These platforms provide a secure and convenient way to purchase tickets, and often offer features such as ticket insurance and customer support.
However, the rise of online ticketing has also brought its own set of challenges. Ticketing fees, which can add significant costs to the ticket price, have become a major issue for fans. Additionally, the use of bots and other automated software has made it difficult for fans to purchase tickets, as these programs can quickly buy up large quantities of tickets.
Despite these challenges, the benefits of online ticketing far outweigh the drawbacks. Fans can now purchase tickets from anywhere in the world, at any time, and can often find better deals and discounts than they would have in the pre-internet era.
The impact of technology on concert ticket buying has also changed the way promoters and venues sell tickets. Many promoters and venues now use online ticketing platforms to sell tickets directly to fans, cutting out the middleman and reducing costs.
For those who are wondering how did you buy concert tickets before the internet, the answer is that it was a much more difficult and time-consuming process. However, the rise of online ticketing has made it easier and more convenient for fans to purchase tickets, and has opened up new opportunities for promoters and venues to sell tickets.
As the concert ticket buying experience continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how technology continues to shape the industry. One thing is certain, however: the days of waiting in line for hours or dealing with busy signals and long hold times are behind us, and fans are better off for it.
Looking Back: The Nostalgia of Buying Concert Tickets Before the Internet
For many music fans, buying concert tickets before the internet was a rite of passage. It was a time of excitement and anticipation, as fans eagerly awaited the opportunity to see their favorite artists live in concert. While the process of buying tickets was often challenging and time-consuming, it was also a fun and memorable experience that many fans look back on with nostalgia.
One of the most iconic aspects of buying concert tickets before the internet was the experience of waiting in line. Fans would often camp out overnight or arrive early in the morning to secure a spot in line, all in the hopes of scoring tickets to a sold-out show. This experience was not only a test of endurance but also a chance to meet fellow fans and share in the excitement of the concert.
Another aspect of buying concert tickets before the internet was the sense of community that came with it. Fans would often gather at the box office or ticket outlet, sharing stories and discussing the upcoming concert. This sense of community was a big part of the experience, as fans bonded over their shared love of music.
For those who are wondering how did you buy concert tickets before the internet, the answer is that it was a much more personal and interactive experience. Fans had to be proactive and resourceful, using a combination of strategy and luck to score tickets. While the process was often frustrating, it was also a fun and exciting experience that many fans look back on with nostalgia.
Today, buying concert tickets is a much more streamlined and convenient process, thanks to the internet and online ticketing platforms. However, for many fans, the experience of buying tickets before the internet was a unique and memorable one that they will always treasure. Whether it was waiting in line, using the phone, or buying tickets by mail, the process of buying concert tickets before the internet was a true adventure that many fans will never forget.
As the music industry continues to evolve, it’s interesting to look back on the way things used to be. For many fans, buying concert tickets before the internet was a defining experience that shaped their love of music and their approach to buying tickets. While the process may have been challenging, it was also a fun and memorable experience that many fans will always cherish.
