Live Nation and Willie Nelson Launch “On The Road Again” Program For Touring Acts

Live Nation, in collaboration with legendary musician Willie Nelson, has launched “On the Road Again” program, devised to support rising artists and the teams accompanying them. Recognizing the critical role that club-sized venues and emerging artists play for the industry, this initiative aims to alleviate the financial pressures of touring by removing merchandise fees in select venues and providing “gas and travel cash” stipends.

Small venues are pivotal, hosting approximately 70% of all shows each year across 4,000 locations in the United States, according to Pollstar’s live music charts. Despite the flourishing state of the music industry, Live Nation is extending a helping hand to these budding artists and the diligent crews that work behind the scenes, as touring expenses continue to soar.

Willie Nelson, who provided his iconic hit song “On the Road Again” as the program’s anthem, stated, “Touring is important to artists so whatever we can do to help other artists, I think we should do it. This program will impact thousands of artists this year and help make touring a little bit easier.”

Watch Willie Nelson discuss “On The Road Again” announcement below

Until the year’s end, the program anticipates funneling tens of millions of dollars in additional earnings to club artists and crews by offering $1,500 in gas and travel cash per show to all headlining and supporting acts, above their nightly performance compensation. Moreover, the clubs associated with Live Nation (77 participating venues) will waive merchandise selling fees, allowing artists to retain 100% of merchandise profits.

Michael Rapino, President and CEO of Live Nation Entertainment, emphasized, “Delivering for live artists is always our core mission,” adding, “we want to do everything we can to support artists at all levels on their touring journey especially the developing artists in clubs.”

“On the Road Again” goes further by acknowledging the individuals who tirelessly work backstage, offering financial bonuses to local promoters, tour representatives, and venue crew members who have clocked over 500 hours in 2023. The program also contributes $5 million to Crew Nation, aiding crew members across the industry grappling with unforeseen difficulties.

This pioneering program underscores a communal effort, intertwining insights from Nelson’s extensive touring experience with feedback from touring artists, their crews, and venue operators, aiming to enrich the touring life for thousands of artists.

For additional details on “On the Road Again” and the full list of participating venues, visit Live Nation’s website roadagain.live.