Live Nation and Willie Nelson have announced the formation of a new program, which they are calling “On The Road Again.” The initiative will work to assist “developing artists” through $1,500 stipends for gas and travel and an end to merch cuts at Live Nation-owned venues. The program is expected to do the following:

* Supporting Developing Artists: All of Live Nation’s clubs are investing in developing artists by providing $1,500 in gas and travel cash per show to all headliners and support acts, on top of nightly performance compensation. Additionally, these clubs will charge no merchandise selling fees, so artists keep 100% of merch profits. Touring is a crucial part of an artist’s livelihood, and we understand travel costs take one of the biggest bites out of artists’ nightly profits. By helping with these core expenses, we aim to make it easier for artists on the road so they can keep performing to their fans in more cities across the country.

* Thanking our Behind-The-Scenes Heroes: Live Nation also wants to recognize all the unsung heroes working behind the scenes night after night to help make these shows happen, with more grind and less glory than most of the business. On The Road Again is providing financial bonuses to local promoters that help execute at shows, tour reps that live life on a bus, as well as venue crew members that have worked over 500 hours in 2023.

* Lending A Hand to Crew Across the Industry: On the Road Again is donating $5 million to Crew Nation to support crew across the industry facing unforeseen hardship.

Live Nation Entertainment President & CEO Michael Rapino commented:

“Delivering for live artists is always our core mission. The live music industry is continuing to grow and as it does, we want to do everything we can to support artists at all levels on their touring journey especially the developing artists in clubs. Like Willie says, this is all about making it a little easier for thousands of artists to continue doing what they love: going out and playing for their fans.”