Ticketmaster and Live Nation Unlikely To Renew Deal

What wonderful news over at hypebot this morning.

"... we now believe it is doubtful we will extend our agreement when it expires at the end of 2008. Live Nation has been a valued client for a very long time and we believe we've taken every reasonable step possible to facilitate a renewal, but they seem intent on a direction for their business that leaves us no viable way to work together."

I'm friggin thrilled that there will be an alternative to the Ticketmaster Monopoly. Livenation is already a big player, according to the article they account for over 15% of ticketmaster's business... That's a BIG client to lose...

So, Will Livenation come away from this and start direct ticketing? Will they partner with a smaller agency? Will they deliver tickets via mobile Nokia phones? The answer is still up in the air, but one thing is certain: Ticketmaster must be shaking in their shoes.