Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolving landscape of concert attendance in China, highlighting the increasing diversity of the audience and the economic impact of concerts on local economies. It emphasizes the emotional and social significance of attending concerts, which has transformed from a niche interest to a mainstream cultural phenomenon. Group 1: Audience Diversity and Experience - The audience for concerts has become more diverse, including older adults, minors, and various demographic groups, indicating a shift from a youth-centric view of concert-goers [10][12][54]. - Concerts provide a unique escape from daily life, allowing attendees to experience intense joy and connection with others, as described by attendees who feel a sense of community and shared happiness [5][15][40]. - The emotional impact of concerts is profound, with attendees often reflecting on personal stories and connections during performances, leading to moments of nostalgia and emotional release [42][81]. Group 2: Economic Impact and Market Dynamics - The ticketing platform, Damai, has seen significant revenue growth, with projected revenues of 2.28 billion, 14.8 billion, and 20.57 billion RMB over three fiscal years, indicating a booming concert market [14]. - The concert industry is not only about ticket sales; it generates substantial ancillary revenue, with a reported 1:4.8 ratio of ticket revenue to local economic impact, meaning every 1 RMB spent on tickets generates 4.8 RMB in local spending [78][79]. - The presence of scalpers (黄牛) has become a notable aspect of the ticketing landscape, with varying levels of pricing based on the scalper's position in the supply chain, affecting the overall market dynamics [31][32][34]. Group 3: Cultural Significance and Future Trends - The article highlights the cultural significance of concerts, particularly for the younger generation who grew up with specific artists, suggesting that musical preferences formed in youth can have lasting impacts on individuals [80]. - Local governments are increasingly supporting concert economies, recognizing their potential to boost tourism and local business, as seen in cities like Taiyuan, which has implemented policies to enhance concert experiences [68][79]. - The trend of integrating concert experiences with consumer products and services, such as bundled ticket and travel packages, reflects a growing recognition of the concert experience as a comprehensive entertainment offering [76].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolving landscape of concert attendance in China, highlighting the increasing diversity of the audience and the economic impact of concerts on local economies. Group 1: Audience Diversity - The audience for concerts has become more complex, including older adults, minors, and various demographics beyond just young fans [8][10][52]. - Concerts are no longer exclusive to young star-chasers; they attract a wide range of attendees, including families and older generations [8][10][52]. - The presence of "non-typical concertgoers" indicates a shift in cultural engagement, with older individuals and families participating more actively [52][53]. Group 2: Economic Impact - Concerts significantly boost local economies, with a reported 1:4.8 ratio of ticket sales to surrounding economic activity, meaning every 1 yuan spent on tickets generates 4.8 yuan in local spending [76]. - In 2024, concerts in Taiyuan generated 41 billion yuan in total consumption, with ticket sales accounting for 10.4 billion yuan [76]. - Local governments are increasingly supporting concert economies due to their potential to drive revenue in hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors [67][76]. Group 3: Ticketing and Resale Market - The ticket resale market is becoming more intricate, with varying levels of ticket scalpers (or "黄牛") affecting pricing and availability [27][30]. - The willingness to pay for concert tickets is notably higher among the 36-45 age group, with 30% willing to spend between 3001-5000 yuan [58][59]. - The dynamics of ticket pricing and availability reflect broader market trends, with older artists like Andy Lau becoming unexpectedly lucrative for scalpers [54][56]. Group 4: Cultural Significance - Concerts provide a unique escape from daily life, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in a shared experience that transcends social identities [11][13][31]. - The emotional connection to music and artists remains strong, with many attendees expressing profound joy and nostalgia during performances [78]. - The article emphasizes the lasting impact of music on individuals, suggesting that songs heard in youth can shape lifelong preferences and experiences [77].