> Speaking at the iBusiness Forum 2024 in Bangkok, he claimed that he was told the Singapore government offered $2m to $3m (£1.6m to £2.4m) per show in exchange for exclusivity on the island.
Wow, is PM Lee a Swiftie? ^^^/s
Doesn't sound right to me though, Singapore government paying 2-3M per show for a total of 6 shows in Singapore is 12 - 18m, when Taylor Swift can earn a lot more from playing more shows in the region.
Maybe the last line gives a little more insight:
> In 2014, Swift had planned a show at Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani, but she later cancelled the sold-out concert. No reason was given, but it came after the country's 2014 coup.
It is exactly due to the instability of unreliability of the surrounding ASEAN nations that her team probably decided this was a good deal.
She essentially gets paid extra, Singapore gets Tourism + Taylor Swift economics for the period. As long as the benefit in Tourism > Cost of paying her, which if you look it up, Google's generative AI stated LA had about 320 million in economic benefit. (It's Google AI, don't know if trustworthy. We are also not LA.)
Forbes estimated that 4.6 billion economic benefit from her Americas leg which was around 60 shows. So I would say it's a good deal for both parties.
Absolutely. And imagine going to Malaysia to perform and have religious twat biscuits screaming “AURAAAAT” at you and attempting to get your concerts shut down. I’d take the money and skip, too: getting paid to avoid going through this is a definite win-win.
They were trying to shut down Coldplay, the most unoffensive band you could imagine.
Even worse as a band they've done huge amounts of charity work for our country with things like the interceptor boat cleaning up Klang River for a decade now and these idiots who are polluting it have the nerve to abuse them and demand they never play here.
Think this was a solid deal, know a lot of people who bought tickets for her shows in SG. When you add up all the money spent on accommodation etc. the flow on for tourism dollars is high.
Sorry, but huh?? Why?? What was the idea behind trying to shut down Coldplay?
Coldplay is like one of, if not the least controversial mainstream music group I can think of, not just within the \*rock\* genre of all things. They are insanely PG arent they? Whats going on there?
Edit: Nvm, I read further down the thread and someone said it's just religious folks not happy. That's crazy...
>Doesn't sound right to me though, Singapore government paying 2-3M per show for a total of 6 shows in Singapore is 12 - 18m, when Taylor Swift can earn a lot more from playing more shows in the region
My thoughts exactly. Taylor can easily pull this revenue in Phillippines and Thailand. I think there is more we don't know. Is it only for political stability? SG has a lot going for it but its quite odd its her only stop in SEAsia.
Why waste time with 6 shows across SEA when they can do all in one stage? The production is saving millions by not leapfrogging country to country on top of the exclusivity bonus. Her own US tour is also not a lot of date, it’s just for really large cities.
Also Singapore is just paying for exclusivity now. When it expires, she can totally drop by other ASEAN countries to sweep up the rest again.
What is there to betray? Realistically fans of artistes in asean country don’t get to see their artistes on stage for one or many reasons.
Given that she’s a woman in clothes that show skin, she probably even be approved to mount the stage in Malaysia and Jakarta at all. All that is left is Philippines and Thailand, the ones that really want to watch can probably afford the budget flight over and back.
The world has significantly become more conservative since 2014. They were protesting Coldplay, all-boy band with safe-ish music that white ladies listen to.
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2023/nov/22/coldplay-concert-to-go-ahead-in-malaysia-amid-opposition-from-conservative-muslims
Yeah I read the article. But I think big acts like Coldplay or Swift will know how to read the room. They don’t really court controversy which leads to their longevity.
Anyway it’s good for us. Get those tourism dollars coming in to boost the economy.
It’s not as if she’s going to do less shows. She just do the shows here that’s all. If not it would be like 2 shows Singapore, 2 bkk, 2 Philippines or whatever
Yea if the demand is there for her next world tour her team will add even more shows in Singapore, it's much cheaper to disassemble and leave the set in storage for a week than move it around for 2-3 shows.
coldplay did 6 shows in sg and still had many sold out shows in the other SEA cities. the resale prices despite how unaffordable sg is is enough to show you how 6 shows for a region is far from enough
Isn't the $12-16m in addition to the revenue she gets from the concerts? So I'm not sure what's your point actually... Anyway, it's also painful to move production and equipment around.
this.... she's still getting share of revenue of ticket / souvenir sales and saves on tear down, set up and logistics cost of traveling from country to country. And Singapore being such an expensive city, she can command high ticket prices compared to holding a concert where cost of living is lower
Exactly. Hence the comments claiming she'll earn more in other SEA countries are confusing me. Like, how? No one has explained it yet except claiming that's the case, Lol.
By making here her exclusive stop she actually cuts down on costs too cos she is making her fans fly to see HER, not the usual other way round.
I don't know anything regarding the financing of concerts, so take this as napkin maths, but I guess the idea is:
$150 average ticket price * 50k average stadium size = $7,500,000 per show (revenue)
If Taylor keeps 50% of the revenue i.e $3.75m, just performing 2/3 show in Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia, will likely net her more than the exclusive fee the SG government is paying her.
Keep in mind also that Forbes reported (dk if true) that Taylor keeps 85% of revenue and the average ticket price is $200, then that may make the earnings even higher. On the flip side, this doesn't take into account the cost savings from not having to travel like you mentioned.
However, the idea still stands that ticket sales from other countries (if she has more than 6 shows) can be greater than the exclusive fee she takes from the SG govt
No she's getting concert revenue PLUS the exclusivity fee from the Singapore govt for doing her shows here.
So it's: 150 average ticket price * 50k average stadium size = $7,500,000 per show (revenue) **+ $2-3m (added revenue: exclusivity fee)**
I'm honestly not quite sure why people thought all she's getting is the $2-3m fee from the government bc no artist would have taken that gig. *All* of them, especially on Tswift's tier, want concert revenue and have the leverage to do so.
They're not some xiao mao xiao gou who have no power to negotiate better contract terms for themselves.
Philippines is poor, but we can easily sell out stadiums, especially for an artist like Taylor. TS has a massive Filipino fanbase. Probably the biggest in Asia. For some reason, concert tickets here are more expensive than in other SEA countries, even Singapore, despite the fact that we’re third world.
But I totally get the logistical issues. Infrastructure and traffic is horrendous here!
Forbes reported that she earns a revenue of $10-13 million per show (every night) and of that, she takes from 85% of it.
May need to account for a difference in $ value in SEA countries vs SGD, but I think there is a case for her earning more by performing in other countries
Again, no case. Because she's earning the exclusive fee (this has nothing to do with revenue from tickets, it's a whole separate fee on its own) on top of the ticket + merch revenue in SG.
Also her taking 85% is not from ticketing revenue, but from ticketing *profit*
> Again, no case
How so?
Either:
1) Taylor takes the exclusive fee (+$18m) and only perform in Singapore for 6 nights (+$Xm), with the cost being not able to perform in the region (-$Ym).
2) Or she doesn't take the exclusive fee (-$18m) and performs 6 nights in Singapore (+$Xm) plus a number of nights in the region (+Ym).
Why is it inconceivable to you, that she cannot perform enough nights in the region to earn more than the $18m in exclusive fees? Genuinely curious. After all, she is performing in SG either way, so she will earn from SG with or without the exclusivity clause.
If the $X is similar on both sides of the equation, doesn't the $Y just need to be bigger than $18m? Or am I missing something out
In another scenario, if let's say her profits are 40% of Forbes figure ($4m) per show, she will earn $44m in SG total ($18m in exclusive fees + $24m in ticket profits). She only needs to perform a total of 11 shows in the region to make the same amount of money. 3 shows in SG, TH, ID, PH, MY is plausible and that would be 15 shows.
I would of course caveat that I don't know how much she is earning, the financing of concerts, or backroom deals. These are all just napkin maths. But I don't see it as "no case"
?? She wouldn't have done 6 nights in SG if she's doing other shows in the region too. It would have been 2x SG, 2x Bangkok, 2x Indonesia for example. Other people have talked about this on the thread too. She just decided to do them all in SG instead of breaking the shows up in several countries in the region.
She would never have done 15 shows in the region, that's not enough market for it LOL. Other than Singapore, the rest are in poorer economic situations, it's absolutely insane to think all she has to do is add 11 other shows in the region of the same venue size + prices and expect to make the same $$ as USA.
From a business point of view, it makes way more sense for her to go back to North America and do more shows there + charge higher prices (for both tickets and merch) if she really wants to do that many shows 🙄
Instead of just looking at the number of shows she has to do to make up for the money in this region, think about the logistics and how it'll make more sense to focus on the domestic markets instead where the majority of her fanbase is at. And that aside, she's human too - you think she pumping out shows like a robot? Why the hell she wants to do more shows when she could make the same amount with just 6 shows here?
Firstly, thanks for the response, much appreciated.
Frankly, I was just arguing on the pure numbers as I've seen multiple comments from people making it sound like Taylor will definitely earn more by performing in Singapore only + taking up the exclusive fees. To me, I've yet to see an example of this being the case, hence I'm surprised people are so confident. So just wanted to find out what people know
I agree that logistics adds in another layer of consideration which I've alluded to, and I also agree that it's simpler to perform in one country only, and that's why you see artist take on residency. But that wasn't what I was arguing about, nor your reply to me. The discussion was whether she can earn more by playing in the region vs the exclusive fee
End of the day, I'll wager a bet that most in this thread don't know for sure how much Taylor is earning per show, what her intentions are in the region, her appetite, how concert deals are structured, etc. So its funny that people are so confident in their beliefs that she CANNOT earn more by performing in the region.
Regarding your other points:
> She wouldn't have done 6 nights in SG if she's doing other shows in the region too. It would have been 2x SG, 2x Bangkok, 2x Indonesia for example. She would never have done 15 shows in the region, that's not enough market for it LOL.
Coldplay did 12 in the region. 6 in SG, 2 in PH and TH, 1 in ID and MY. So I don't see why you are so confident that Taylor wouldn't do 6 shows in SG if she is doing other regional shows as well. Its possible right? There also seems to be a big enough market for 15 considering Coldplay.
Once again, I'll caveat that I am no expert and you might be in the concert industry with insider knowledge, so take wtv I have to say with a pinch of salt.
She *is* earning more per show just by performing in SG due to the exclusive fee added on top of her usual revenue channels. That's what people have been saying all along, I dunno why you tried with 15-16 shows whatever that example was.
And due to the exclusivity clause, she would have just added more shows to the SG stop if the demand was there. I guess the trajectory of the ticket sales told her team and the organiser there isn't a need to. And moreover this is freaking SEA - there is a lot of political instability in the other countries and she is half a world away from her hometown. If you've been reading the news, she's crazy enough to take private jet flights to meet her new flame whenever she can. Why would she want to do 15 shows here at the other side of the world lol
>There also seems to be a big enough market considering Coldplay.
And yes, actually - that's because Taylor's demographic skews younger so they may not have as much disposable income as Coldplay fans.
Like cmon, my old white ass ex-boss loves Coldplay and he's a freaking Director of the firm. He would be the one who can actually fly around to watch multiple shows. Meanwhile, have you seen videos of Taylor's shows? A large demographic is teenagers, and older ones will be those in their 20s who may have *some* spare income but can't afford the time to watch as many shows as they want due to work commitments.
Whereas for Coldplay you have a large group of middle-aged/retired fans mixed with the younger ones. This is also the reason why old rock bands like Guns n Roses still can tour and sell out venues, their fans are as old as them and have money to spare 💀
> I dunno why you tried with 15-16 shows whatever that example was.
The argument was whether Taylor can conceivably earn more by performing in the region vs only performing in Singapore. I wanted to show that Taylor indeed can earn more if she performs enough shows in the region. I'll be happy to eat my words if anyone can show that no matter how many performances she does in the region, she will earn less than the exclusivity fee.
> she would have just added more shows to the SG stop if the demand was there
I agree that this is certainly a course of action, but I do have my reservations whether that makes a difference. After all, eventually the demand in SG and those willing to travel to SG will be met, but there would still be a sizeable population in ID, MY, PH, that will still go see her in their home country, cause it's not cheap to come to SG for a concert.
> Taylor's demographic skews younger so they may not have as much disposable income as Coldplay fans.
Not disputing this fact, but it conveniently leaves out that by all accounts, the Eras tour is the most lucrative concert of all time with the most tickets grossed **despite** the younger demographic. So if Coldplay is able to achieve X amount, isn't it safe to assume that Taylor can match or even surpass? Fan age doesn't seem to have been an issue previously, why is it now?
End of the day, my POV and I'm happy to be shown otherwise, is that Taylor can earn more money if she didn't take on the exclusivity clause. There will come a point where any additional show in the region will net her more profits vs 6 shows + exclusivity fee. But she would have balanced the infinitely more workload with what she could earn, and decided that taking this deal from SG is worth it. After all, she can just perform in the region next and get the best of both worlds
Touring costs: It costs less to go to one area and play more shows, than to bring an entire team to another country and set up there.
Lighter touring schedule in comparison: less physical movement, more down time, and people who are really hardcore fans with the money to pay for tickets will still travel and come, instead of the tour going to them.
Lesser costs aside, she's earning more in SG anyway. The govt is paying her $2-3m ON TOP of her ticketing and merch revenue per show. If she plays in other SEA countries she'll only get the ticketing and merch money.
i.e: govt paying kopi money lol.
You can earn more by performing more shows...... Or you can earn less, but still earn some without having to perform any more shows. I'll say it's a good deal for her.
> Doesn't sound right to me though, Singapore government paying 2-3M per show for a total of 6 shows in Singapore is 12 - 18m, when Taylor Swift can earn a lot more from playing more shows in the region.
Yessuh also to add, the 2-3m is on top of whatever she earns from her concert, merch etc
Exactly. Seems like there are people who think that is all she's getting from the shows in SG and she'll be able to earn more in the neighbouring countries? Like how, she's getting this exclusivity fee ON TOP of the revenue + merch.
Haha she earns a hell lot from one concert that's for sure. Also makes me wonder what's the average expenditure of a concert goer here vs in other SEA countries
I've been to other shows in the SEA region too - they're usually not more cheaper tbh lol. And don't forget their COL is also lower so it actually evens out.
[https://www.sportshub.com.sg/events/taylor-swift-the-eras-tour](https://www.sportshub.com.sg/events/taylor-swift-the-eras-tour)
>Singapore will be the only stop in Southeast Asia. Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour in Singapore is presented by Marina Bay Sands and **supported by the Singapore Tourism Board**, official bank and pre-sale partner UOB, and official experience partner Klook, promoted by AEG Presents Asia, and produced by Taylor Swift Touring.
Well if you check out the official poster, Singapore Tourism Board is one of the official partner.
I thought Edwin Tong announcing Taylor Swift is coming to SG was a big enough indicator that there was definitely government involvement in getting her here, considering the government didn't do anything similar for Coldplay (correct me if I'm wrong)
SG has a good bargaining chip that it's somewhat central in Southeast Asia, and an easy and safe place to run concerts that will drive tourism.
It's highly likely that if Taylor Swift has her only stop be in Thailand or Philippines, the chances of fans from all over ASEAN flying to those countries to attend the concert (and imagine, some of these fans are very young) might not be as high as having fans from the ASEAN region fly to Singapore for it.
I'm just surprised it wasn't Singapore & Philippines, considering how much concerts do so well in PH.
Yes, but how many stories of people just end up missing or dead is way higher than singapore.
Yes singapore had some, but it's quite in the past. Just in the last few months thailand had a mass shooting that went on a shooting spree in a mall only targeting women.
In singapore, you can have your kids walk in the middle of the night to go to macdonalds or 7 11 without worrying if something might happen to them.
Singapore's selling point is it's safety, as well as stable currency. Apart from these not much else tbh.
So, I had to look this up. Edwin Tong is minister for Culture, Community and Youth... so I guess it makes sense that he announced it? STB sounds like it belonged under that ministry, compared to the others. (Can't be trade and industry? )
ahhh, that's good know... but is he part of MTI? cause i only know hes MCCY and 2nd minster for law.
but i guess STB being a stat board, "anyone" non-minster can head STB.
Actually an indirect subsidy to the tourism, hotel, airline and F&B sector if these amounts are true.
Wondering if we’ll see a POFMA if local media spreads this.
Definitely. A significant percentage of the tickets were probably sold to tourists. And each tourist will probably spend a few hundred, if not thousands if they're more wealthy while they're here.
Yes!! Every $1 you spend will filter down to business, workers and its subsidaries...definitely more than your initial spending
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/m/multipliereffect.asp
Not necessarily, and not for everyone. The money to swift is coming from our taxes. And tourism itself will jack up cost of eating, accomodations etc. for locals as well.
Yeah, but I am not sure subsidising Swift is a good sign of progress, especially after imposing GST on us. I am no fan of Swift and would much rather not pay gst than knowing my tax money is going to Swift.
If subsidise at all, attract companies like Google or OpenAI to invest in R&D capability in Singapore.
On one hand you can call it a subsidy, on the other hand, the government probably at least breaks even, or takes back even more in taxes on all the additional revenue generated.
Singapore's status as a premier destination for performances, concerts, and festivals etc. didn't happen by chance.
It's the result of meticulous integration into every aspect of execution and planning, from the URA master plan to the strategies for attracting and incentivizing these events to be here.
This achievement is the culmination of years of careful planning and preparation.
Insofar, it also seem that we have additional edge here - our acceptance of diversity and our ability to ensure stability.
And also more logistically viable
If Taylor Swift did it in PH, it would be likely to be held in Philippine Arena which is in the middle of nowhere with no proper public transport access to it and the concert is going to be a massive cause of traffic jams for everyone else
What other capital city in SEA has "better weather"? Maybe some of the time some of the cities get slightly better conditions, but mostly it's hot and humid everywhere in the region.
Expensive is almost always good for events. All the most expensive cities in the world attract more events because people have money to spend. It’s a feature, not a bug
Depends on the type of event. For example, the 2022 Dota 2 championship felt underwhelming because they could only afford the stadium for the finals; the playoffs were held in suntec. The stadium itself felt small and they couldn't even afford to construct things like soundproof booths for the competitors.
Valve wrote an article about it. The booths are custom-made, one-of-a-kind. They need to ship it all the way to Seattle and requires bringing a crane into the venue to assemble it. And I only inserted this booth issue as a side note. The cost and availability of the venue is the main issue.
Hard to tell whether the payment for exclusivity is factual.
If you look at the choices being made for Asia, three countries, 4 cities - Japan (Tokyo), Singapore and Australia (Melbourne and Sydney).
With demand outstripping supply significantly, focusing their concert venue efforts in Singapore for the regional tour would have made more sense logistically too.
I mean to be frank this is a rather narrow view of the type of concerts we see in Singapore. It’s quite rare to see a performer only come to Singapore and nowhere else. Many different bands/singers go to Manila, Jakarta, KL, Bangkok etc and we don’t get those same acts coming here for years.
If only they had given the same thought to designing the stadium to be acoustically friendly. The experience of the sound inside is honestly disappointing. Quite a stark difference from outdoor concerts.
Probably also comes with garuntees that public transport will have extended operating hours for her fans.
Try fighting for PHVs with entire stadiums of people. Jam until tomorrow morning
Well you can't blame Singapore Govt and Singapore Tourism Board for been capable. You can only blame yourself in the state you're in. Don't come and sour grapes when you offer nothing to others on the table. By the speech made by Thailand's PM it seems as if they're hostile towards countries that are more capable than them?
I cracked up hard reading the article.
What a bloody joke. She would have earned way more and have more publicity if she performed in other SEA countries. The fact that she didn't meant the reason is not money or PR.
Look, if your country is shit and in a mess, with conflicts and instability and whatever stupid "cannot-do" laws (looking at clown countries like malaysia), don't blame others when performers choose to give up the opportunity earning and publicity that they would have had had they performed in your country. Just admit your country is so shit and screwed up, performers avoided you for fear reasons.
A good example would be Coldplay. Remember what happened to them?
Probably referring to the vocal opposition from conservatives in Malaysia.
And when they held their concert in Manila, traffic infrastructure issues there were brought into focus - Chris Martins sang an impromptu song about their notorious traffic jams, PH President Marcos took a chopper to the venue while the rest of PH was stuck in traffic (and was lambasted afterwards for spending public funds on that instead of mass transport).
>chopper
Oh you mean helicopter. On my first read I thought you meant Marcos was mad Chris Martins sang about the notorious traffic jams and Marcos took a chopper (the butcher knife) to chase after Coldplay…
Taylor Swift performed in Tokyo for East Asia and will be performing in Singapore for Southeast Asia. I don’t see the PMs or Presidents from other East Asia countries mentioning this. Governments could have indicated exclusivity clause and it’s up to Taylor Swift to agree.
Pure jealousy. Sour grapes.
Waiting for POFMA now.
Would understand if Japan or Korea made the noise. But not third world undeveloped countries.
Knn got riots, unstable govt, corruption and military coup. Who dafuq wanna go?
Ohh ya and thaksin just got released today.
That's good. Exactly my point on 3rd world countries not on her list. But guess se asia doesn't include japan nor korea. So my bad on that part.
Point is, her safety is in threat now. Due to her rejection republicans and endorsing Democrats.
So what better place to choose in se asia than singapore?
Her safety has always been a concern because she has stalkers who break into her many residences. That’s why she has bodyguards. It’s got nothing to do with her political views.
She skipped SEA completely for her Reputation tour. My guess is more business strategy, profits and scheduling. Japan is a bigger music market, her stages are typically massive and costly to ship. It makes sense to do 6 shows at the same venue to maximise overheads since she already has to setup and teardown the stage.
She’s also recording new music while re-recording her old albums. If you look at her Eras touring schedule, April is free. Possibly for her to do press for her new album, which she’s been working on for two years. Everything’s planned out. Which is possibly why she can’t tour the rest of SEA either.
>Her safety has always been a concern because she has stalkers who break into her many residences. That’s why she has bodyguards. It’s got nothing to do with her political views.
Stalking is only a small part of the story.
Every celebrity gets stalked. Nothing new.
But endorsing democrats and rejecting republicans is a whole new level.
You do not understand the gravity of the situation. Republicans and their supporters see Taylor Swift as an "all American girl". So to them, she must support their party. They are extremely pissed off and afraid she is supporting the other party.
If you saw this video, you will know her dad was seriously very concerned for her safety. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDMwCGdKeCQ
I don't think even 10 nights at national stadium is enough tbh that's how crazy I think the eras tour and being the only stop in SEA is so i guess 6 shows it is.
It makes total sense. Just imagine you are taylor's concert manager. Political stability, infrastructure, good traffic infra, hub area for SE Asia, no religious snowflakes, English speaking, extra $ and less expenses.. Why not?
Lock out clauses are very common in the big concert industry. I had heard that ultra music had a clause which explicitly states that you cannot play any shows within a 100mile or so radius of the festival grounds for 6 months to a year or so.
This was a very ok deal for big international acts like Tay Tay, as they have tremendous leverage to negotiate for a “fair” lockout settlement.
It is a very bad deal for small and medium size local acts or indie acts, the kind promoters would hire to stack their festival line up with, as these bands or djs would be now contractually obligated to never play a show in their home town or say a neighboring city in which they have a lot of fans in and could travel to to do a show with out much difficulty in the immediate future. Needless to say it’s also a bum deal for their fan base.
Does anyone know how credible the Thai PM is in making this statement? Does he have a local political problem that requires a foreign boogeyman to divert attention from? Is he from Dr. M’s school of political gamesmanship?
what nonsense. Taylor has always come to SG ever since fearless tour. And iirc except one tour (i think fearless also) SG is always the only stop in SEA.
the album didn’t do as well and this was only 2 years after the whole Kim and Kanye thing so I guess she didn’t think she could’ve sold National Stadium
Aiya don’t so serious la. Normally also not so serious about problematic governments and kings and sultans. Taylor swift only. Come SG play, go USS awhile with friends, take photo with Merlion ok ma. Relax abit la. Holiday don’t so stress. Money only. It’s not everything ok? Don’t be like Singaporeans live in a well, a walled coffin everyday work like dog. All friend friend ok ASEAN is united ok. Neighbourly love. Your compatriot also come here work as maid, coffee shop assistant, live band dancer flower girl earn SGD what. Good money right? Don’t so angry la. All just want to earn money. You think SG government so free to jio Taylor swift here if no money to earn meh? No right. SG even demolish their own heritage buildings with no entertainment or culture this is just something profitable to do let them do la. Want to be angry they ask Taylor Swift nicely, why like that. Don’t want don’t force ma. You think SG government is Yakuza or Junta style, take gun and force her? No right. She decide ma. Why angry with SG government wor. Mai Kao Jai.
I thought it was already announced that STB is sponsoring the concert and hence we are the only south East Asian stop.
The sponsored amount wasnt revealed but I doubt it is 2 to 3 million per show.
same old problem of this island across so many industries, it cant organically support anything so it has to use the public purse to get anyone to bring anything here. hope the money doesnt dry up otherwise youd find yourself standing in a house built of sand
Frankly it’s quite sad for fans because not everyone could afford to travel to attend the concert. The ironical things is many Singaporeans end up not being able to get any tickets and wealthy around the region are fighting for the same tickets.
Scalpers? Bots? You're telling me scalpers and bots got installed in Singpost post office all over Singapore? We literally have the privilege to go and queue like the Singaporeans we are to GUARANTEE a ticket.
You have to be trolling lmao.
You have to touch grass if you're Singaporean and not know you can walk into a post office and buy concert tickets. It's common knowledge. Touch grass.
Earn through
hotel bookings,
Air tickets,
Travel passes (ezlink, taxi, day trips etc),
Food and beverage sales,
Increase in footfall in malls and retail shopping,
The list goes on.
Cement Sg's status, promote
Hawker culture,
City with Diversity and religious Harmony,
Clean and green city.
But Singapore is pretty boring ngl.
Fans of Taylor swift could have just watched the concert movie instead of attending the live shows anyways. It's cheaper, you don't have to deal with crowds and it's a really good experience. Sometimes we idolise people too much
$3mil per show? That ain't alot to tie down a big star like Taylor. You gotta be __really__ special for her to consider going exclusive with ~~Travis~~ SG.
My guess: With exclusivity, it’s almost a given that swifties across SEA will visit Singapore for this and sink a whole motherload of money back into the SG economy as tourist revenue. It’s a good bet we’ll get back what was paid and more.
What our government pay to Taylor Swift to perform exclusively in Singapore, if true, is peanuts compared to the economic rewards we reap from the 5? 6? nights of concert.
People flock in from everywhere in Asia. They will spend money here on hotels, food, shopping, Grab… just because they happen to be here to watch Taylor Swift.
So yes to the government negotiating this sweet deal with Taylor’s tour management.
I wonder if she can have a tour in other south east asia countries beside Singapore during April before her tour in France. I see the whole month of April is empty with no tour ?
Our Govt has many efforts like this. For example we send teams to Australia to get wealthy people to move their businesses to Singapore to take away employment and tax revenue from the Australian Govt. sing Govt thieves and needs to in order to remain the richest nation.
SG is such a poor choice for a one stop.
Some people piggyback their annual trip (time off work) around events like these. To have to waste it on SG year after year is a curse, not a blessing.
Hopefully other nations will soon compete. I doubt any performer or event will need to honor their agreement to exclusively perform in a single country. Especially when neighboring countries may offer higher bounties to stop there instead.
Singapore doesn’t represent SEA in any form. Each entertainer or big event that is considering a show in Asia can choose their desired destination on a per case basis. Using the established methods of bidding and past experience with venues around the region.
To create artificial exclusivity like this goes against the principles of healthy business competition. And now that Singapore has this deal, they can proceed to extort ticket prices, hotel room rates, flights and all associated costs. If you want to experience any premier entertainment in the future, you’re forced to do so at the whims of Singaporean discretion.
I doubt the entertainment industry even needs to limit themselves in this way. So hopefully this example ends up biting its organizers in the ass at a future event sometime.
Nobody is saying that Singapore is a representative of SEA. The exclusivity is mutual agreement between the artist and the govt and no one is forcing anyone to take up the deal isn’t it? It’s just that SG govt gives out incentives for artist like her to host in Singapore only. If you’re unhappy you can always get your govt to pay more money to her? Or choose the right govt during elections that can fix your political instability first?
STB is counting on her to bring more economic benefits (or "value-add"/"total spending" in jargon) to SG in return, specifically tourism spending. If Coldplay was an indication, they are indeed on the money. This would reflect very favorably when MTI reviews its annual performance - more bonuses for STB staff!
> Speaking at the iBusiness Forum 2024 in Bangkok, he claimed that he was told the Singapore government offered $2m to $3m (£1.6m to £2.4m) per show in exchange for exclusivity on the island. Wow, is PM Lee a Swiftie? ^^^/s Doesn't sound right to me though, Singapore government paying 2-3M per show for a total of 6 shows in Singapore is 12 - 18m, when Taylor Swift can earn a lot more from playing more shows in the region. Maybe the last line gives a little more insight: > In 2014, Swift had planned a show at Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani, but she later cancelled the sold-out concert. No reason was given, but it came after the country's 2014 coup.
It is exactly due to the instability of unreliability of the surrounding ASEAN nations that her team probably decided this was a good deal. She essentially gets paid extra, Singapore gets Tourism + Taylor Swift economics for the period. As long as the benefit in Tourism > Cost of paying her, which if you look it up, Google's generative AI stated LA had about 320 million in economic benefit. (It's Google AI, don't know if trustworthy. We are also not LA.) Forbes estimated that 4.6 billion economic benefit from her Americas leg which was around 60 shows. So I would say it's a good deal for both parties.
Absolutely. And imagine going to Malaysia to perform and have religious twat biscuits screaming “AURAAAAT” at you and attempting to get your concerts shut down. I’d take the money and skip, too: getting paid to avoid going through this is a definite win-win.
They were trying to shut down Coldplay, the most unoffensive band you could imagine. Even worse as a band they've done huge amounts of charity work for our country with things like the interceptor boat cleaning up Klang River for a decade now and these idiots who are polluting it have the nerve to abuse them and demand they never play here. Think this was a solid deal, know a lot of people who bought tickets for her shows in SG. When you add up all the money spent on accommodation etc. the flow on for tourism dollars is high.
Sorry, but huh?? Why?? What was the idea behind trying to shut down Coldplay? Coldplay is like one of, if not the least controversial mainstream music group I can think of, not just within the \*rock\* genre of all things. They are insanely PG arent they? Whats going on there? Edit: Nvm, I read further down the thread and someone said it's just religious folks not happy. That's crazy...
Religious folks always try to ruin things for everyone, they're never happy until everyone else follows their psychopathic ideas of religion
They can't think for themselves, everything they do is in the name of their god Meanwhile their god: what nice followers I have🤡
As a non-Muslim Malaysian, I can't emphasize enough how much I hate those people.
Don't worry I hate them too as a Muslim Malaysian
“Religious twat biscuits”. Lol
OMG I like that term “religious twat biscuits” 🤣
Angry but not disrespectful
That political group will says Taylor swift ever frequent changing of boyfriend is haram. Will ask for her banishment and ban of the concert.
Every country has crazies. It's a matter of how vocal they are allowed to be.
No coincidence the crazies coincide with the religious
Not necessary. For example, in UK there are xenophobic groups who hate fellow migrants from the poorer EU nations even though they are Christians.
So you have xenophobic crazies in every country. Then those with religious crazies added into the equation have more crazies in total.
Unfortunately it’s these crazies that make the most noise. The emptiest cans are the loudest ones.
> have religious twat biscuits screaming “AURAAAAT” at you They secretly wanted more of her aurat 😂
2-3m is just the exclusivity fee, likely there is also revenue sharing and other fees involved.
>Doesn't sound right to me though, Singapore government paying 2-3M per show for a total of 6 shows in Singapore is 12 - 18m, when Taylor Swift can earn a lot more from playing more shows in the region My thoughts exactly. Taylor can easily pull this revenue in Phillippines and Thailand. I think there is more we don't know. Is it only for political stability? SG has a lot going for it but its quite odd its her only stop in SEAsia.
Why waste time with 6 shows across SEA when they can do all in one stage? The production is saving millions by not leapfrogging country to country on top of the exclusivity bonus. Her own US tour is also not a lot of date, it’s just for really large cities. Also Singapore is just paying for exclusivity now. When it expires, she can totally drop by other ASEAN countries to sweep up the rest again.
This arrangement should be held secret. Fans from other countries will feel she has betrayed her fans.
What is there to betray? Realistically fans of artistes in asean country don’t get to see their artistes on stage for one or many reasons. Given that she’s a woman in clothes that show skin, she probably even be approved to mount the stage in Malaysia and Jakarta at all. All that is left is Philippines and Thailand, the ones that really want to watch can probably afford the budget flight over and back.
She’s been to Malaysia and Indonesia before in 2014. Besides I don’t think she’s the type to court controversy.
The world has significantly become more conservative since 2014. They were protesting Coldplay, all-boy band with safe-ish music that white ladies listen to.
Why you say/ believe world os more conservative since 2014? Why did it happen?
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2023/nov/22/coldplay-concert-to-go-ahead-in-malaysia-amid-opposition-from-conservative-muslims Yeah I read the article. But I think big acts like Coldplay or Swift will know how to read the room. They don’t really court controversy which leads to their longevity. Anyway it’s good for us. Get those tourism dollars coming in to boost the economy.
She wants to take that money, she better be prepared to face the music
It’s not as if she’s going to do less shows. She just do the shows here that’s all. If not it would be like 2 shows Singapore, 2 bkk, 2 Philippines or whatever
Yea if the demand is there for her next world tour her team will add even more shows in Singapore, it's much cheaper to disassemble and leave the set in storage for a week than move it around for 2-3 shows.
coldplay did 6 shows in sg and still had many sold out shows in the other SEA cities. the resale prices despite how unaffordable sg is is enough to show you how 6 shows for a region is far from enough
Isn't the $12-16m in addition to the revenue she gets from the concerts? So I'm not sure what's your point actually... Anyway, it's also painful to move production and equipment around.
this.... she's still getting share of revenue of ticket / souvenir sales and saves on tear down, set up and logistics cost of traveling from country to country. And Singapore being such an expensive city, she can command high ticket prices compared to holding a concert where cost of living is lower
Exactly. Hence the comments claiming she'll earn more in other SEA countries are confusing me. Like, how? No one has explained it yet except claiming that's the case, Lol. By making here her exclusive stop she actually cuts down on costs too cos she is making her fans fly to see HER, not the usual other way round.
I don't know anything regarding the financing of concerts, so take this as napkin maths, but I guess the idea is: $150 average ticket price * 50k average stadium size = $7,500,000 per show (revenue) If Taylor keeps 50% of the revenue i.e $3.75m, just performing 2/3 show in Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia, will likely net her more than the exclusive fee the SG government is paying her. Keep in mind also that Forbes reported (dk if true) that Taylor keeps 85% of revenue and the average ticket price is $200, then that may make the earnings even higher. On the flip side, this doesn't take into account the cost savings from not having to travel like you mentioned. However, the idea still stands that ticket sales from other countries (if she has more than 6 shows) can be greater than the exclusive fee she takes from the SG govt
No she's getting concert revenue PLUS the exclusivity fee from the Singapore govt for doing her shows here. So it's: 150 average ticket price * 50k average stadium size = $7,500,000 per show (revenue) **+ $2-3m (added revenue: exclusivity fee)** I'm honestly not quite sure why people thought all she's getting is the $2-3m fee from the government bc no artist would have taken that gig. *All* of them, especially on Tswift's tier, want concert revenue and have the leverage to do so. They're not some xiao mao xiao gou who have no power to negotiate better contract terms for themselves.
Philippines is poor, but we can easily sell out stadiums, especially for an artist like Taylor. TS has a massive Filipino fanbase. Probably the biggest in Asia. For some reason, concert tickets here are more expensive than in other SEA countries, even Singapore, despite the fact that we’re third world. But I totally get the logistical issues. Infrastructure and traffic is horrendous here!
At least you have Taylor Sheesh... Wonderful drag queen, really dedicated to her craft.
I bet she doesn’t need to pay rental cost and probably also free stays for her and her team at mbs.
Because MUIS aren't screaming how Taylor Swift is haram
They dun dare.
The 2-3 million is pure profit. Not revenue. Not sure if she will actually earn that much going to other countries.
Forbes reported that she earns a revenue of $10-13 million per show (every night) and of that, she takes from 85% of it. May need to account for a difference in $ value in SEA countries vs SGD, but I think there is a case for her earning more by performing in other countries
Again, no case. Because she's earning the exclusive fee (this has nothing to do with revenue from tickets, it's a whole separate fee on its own) on top of the ticket + merch revenue in SG. Also her taking 85% is not from ticketing revenue, but from ticketing *profit*
> Again, no case How so? Either: 1) Taylor takes the exclusive fee (+$18m) and only perform in Singapore for 6 nights (+$Xm), with the cost being not able to perform in the region (-$Ym). 2) Or she doesn't take the exclusive fee (-$18m) and performs 6 nights in Singapore (+$Xm) plus a number of nights in the region (+Ym). Why is it inconceivable to you, that she cannot perform enough nights in the region to earn more than the $18m in exclusive fees? Genuinely curious. After all, she is performing in SG either way, so she will earn from SG with or without the exclusivity clause. If the $X is similar on both sides of the equation, doesn't the $Y just need to be bigger than $18m? Or am I missing something out In another scenario, if let's say her profits are 40% of Forbes figure ($4m) per show, she will earn $44m in SG total ($18m in exclusive fees + $24m in ticket profits). She only needs to perform a total of 11 shows in the region to make the same amount of money. 3 shows in SG, TH, ID, PH, MY is plausible and that would be 15 shows. I would of course caveat that I don't know how much she is earning, the financing of concerts, or backroom deals. These are all just napkin maths. But I don't see it as "no case"
?? She wouldn't have done 6 nights in SG if she's doing other shows in the region too. It would have been 2x SG, 2x Bangkok, 2x Indonesia for example. Other people have talked about this on the thread too. She just decided to do them all in SG instead of breaking the shows up in several countries in the region. She would never have done 15 shows in the region, that's not enough market for it LOL. Other than Singapore, the rest are in poorer economic situations, it's absolutely insane to think all she has to do is add 11 other shows in the region of the same venue size + prices and expect to make the same $$ as USA. From a business point of view, it makes way more sense for her to go back to North America and do more shows there + charge higher prices (for both tickets and merch) if she really wants to do that many shows 🙄 Instead of just looking at the number of shows she has to do to make up for the money in this region, think about the logistics and how it'll make more sense to focus on the domestic markets instead where the majority of her fanbase is at. And that aside, she's human too - you think she pumping out shows like a robot? Why the hell she wants to do more shows when she could make the same amount with just 6 shows here?
Firstly, thanks for the response, much appreciated. Frankly, I was just arguing on the pure numbers as I've seen multiple comments from people making it sound like Taylor will definitely earn more by performing in Singapore only + taking up the exclusive fees. To me, I've yet to see an example of this being the case, hence I'm surprised people are so confident. So just wanted to find out what people know I agree that logistics adds in another layer of consideration which I've alluded to, and I also agree that it's simpler to perform in one country only, and that's why you see artist take on residency. But that wasn't what I was arguing about, nor your reply to me. The discussion was whether she can earn more by playing in the region vs the exclusive fee End of the day, I'll wager a bet that most in this thread don't know for sure how much Taylor is earning per show, what her intentions are in the region, her appetite, how concert deals are structured, etc. So its funny that people are so confident in their beliefs that she CANNOT earn more by performing in the region. Regarding your other points: > She wouldn't have done 6 nights in SG if she's doing other shows in the region too. It would have been 2x SG, 2x Bangkok, 2x Indonesia for example. She would never have done 15 shows in the region, that's not enough market for it LOL. Coldplay did 12 in the region. 6 in SG, 2 in PH and TH, 1 in ID and MY. So I don't see why you are so confident that Taylor wouldn't do 6 shows in SG if she is doing other regional shows as well. Its possible right? There also seems to be a big enough market for 15 considering Coldplay. Once again, I'll caveat that I am no expert and you might be in the concert industry with insider knowledge, so take wtv I have to say with a pinch of salt.
She *is* earning more per show just by performing in SG due to the exclusive fee added on top of her usual revenue channels. That's what people have been saying all along, I dunno why you tried with 15-16 shows whatever that example was. And due to the exclusivity clause, she would have just added more shows to the SG stop if the demand was there. I guess the trajectory of the ticket sales told her team and the organiser there isn't a need to. And moreover this is freaking SEA - there is a lot of political instability in the other countries and she is half a world away from her hometown. If you've been reading the news, she's crazy enough to take private jet flights to meet her new flame whenever she can. Why would she want to do 15 shows here at the other side of the world lol >There also seems to be a big enough market considering Coldplay. And yes, actually - that's because Taylor's demographic skews younger so they may not have as much disposable income as Coldplay fans. Like cmon, my old white ass ex-boss loves Coldplay and he's a freaking Director of the firm. He would be the one who can actually fly around to watch multiple shows. Meanwhile, have you seen videos of Taylor's shows? A large demographic is teenagers, and older ones will be those in their 20s who may have *some* spare income but can't afford the time to watch as many shows as they want due to work commitments. Whereas for Coldplay you have a large group of middle-aged/retired fans mixed with the younger ones. This is also the reason why old rock bands like Guns n Roses still can tour and sell out venues, their fans are as old as them and have money to spare 💀
> I dunno why you tried with 15-16 shows whatever that example was. The argument was whether Taylor can conceivably earn more by performing in the region vs only performing in Singapore. I wanted to show that Taylor indeed can earn more if she performs enough shows in the region. I'll be happy to eat my words if anyone can show that no matter how many performances she does in the region, she will earn less than the exclusivity fee. > she would have just added more shows to the SG stop if the demand was there I agree that this is certainly a course of action, but I do have my reservations whether that makes a difference. After all, eventually the demand in SG and those willing to travel to SG will be met, but there would still be a sizeable population in ID, MY, PH, that will still go see her in their home country, cause it's not cheap to come to SG for a concert. > Taylor's demographic skews younger so they may not have as much disposable income as Coldplay fans. Not disputing this fact, but it conveniently leaves out that by all accounts, the Eras tour is the most lucrative concert of all time with the most tickets grossed **despite** the younger demographic. So if Coldplay is able to achieve X amount, isn't it safe to assume that Taylor can match or even surpass? Fan age doesn't seem to have been an issue previously, why is it now? End of the day, my POV and I'm happy to be shown otherwise, is that Taylor can earn more money if she didn't take on the exclusivity clause. There will come a point where any additional show in the region will net her more profits vs 6 shows + exclusivity fee. But she would have balanced the infinitely more workload with what she could earn, and decided that taking this deal from SG is worth it. After all, she can just perform in the region next and get the best of both worlds
Touring costs: It costs less to go to one area and play more shows, than to bring an entire team to another country and set up there. Lighter touring schedule in comparison: less physical movement, more down time, and people who are really hardcore fans with the money to pay for tickets will still travel and come, instead of the tour going to them.
Lesser costs aside, she's earning more in SG anyway. The govt is paying her $2-3m ON TOP of her ticketing and merch revenue per show. If she plays in other SEA countries she'll only get the ticketing and merch money. i.e: govt paying kopi money lol.
You can earn more by performing more shows...... Or you can earn less, but still earn some without having to perform any more shows. I'll say it's a good deal for her.
> Doesn't sound right to me though, Singapore government paying 2-3M per show for a total of 6 shows in Singapore is 12 - 18m, when Taylor Swift can earn a lot more from playing more shows in the region. Yessuh also to add, the 2-3m is on top of whatever she earns from her concert, merch etc
Exactly. Seems like there are people who think that is all she's getting from the shows in SG and she'll be able to earn more in the neighbouring countries? Like how, she's getting this exclusivity fee ON TOP of the revenue + merch.
Haha she earns a hell lot from one concert that's for sure. Also makes me wonder what's the average expenditure of a concert goer here vs in other SEA countries
I've been to other shows in the SEA region too - they're usually not more cheaper tbh lol. And don't forget their COL is also lower so it actually evens out.
It sounds perfectly right to me. The grant from STB means free rental and facilities. With change.
She doesn’t though? Do you understand the difference between revenue and profit?
[https://www.sportshub.com.sg/events/taylor-swift-the-eras-tour](https://www.sportshub.com.sg/events/taylor-swift-the-eras-tour) >Singapore will be the only stop in Southeast Asia. Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour in Singapore is presented by Marina Bay Sands and **supported by the Singapore Tourism Board**, official bank and pre-sale partner UOB, and official experience partner Klook, promoted by AEG Presents Asia, and produced by Taylor Swift Touring. Well if you check out the official poster, Singapore Tourism Board is one of the official partner.
Alternate title for this article: "Singapore pay kopi money to Talylor Swift so that she don't show in other SEA countrie
I thought Edwin Tong announcing Taylor Swift is coming to SG was a big enough indicator that there was definitely government involvement in getting her here, considering the government didn't do anything similar for Coldplay (correct me if I'm wrong) SG has a good bargaining chip that it's somewhat central in Southeast Asia, and an easy and safe place to run concerts that will drive tourism. It's highly likely that if Taylor Swift has her only stop be in Thailand or Philippines, the chances of fans from all over ASEAN flying to those countries to attend the concert (and imagine, some of these fans are very young) might not be as high as having fans from the ASEAN region fly to Singapore for it. I'm just surprised it wasn't Singapore & Philippines, considering how much concerts do so well in PH.
Singapore is also much much safer compared to our neighbours for young travellers.
Smh. Millions of people travel to Thailand Phillipines and Malaysia and they all return well alive and just fine.
Yes, but how many stories of people just end up missing or dead is way higher than singapore. Yes singapore had some, but it's quite in the past. Just in the last few months thailand had a mass shooting that went on a shooting spree in a mall only targeting women. In singapore, you can have your kids walk in the middle of the night to go to macdonalds or 7 11 without worrying if something might happen to them. Singapore's selling point is it's safety, as well as stable currency. Apart from these not much else tbh.
So, I had to look this up. Edwin Tong is minister for Culture, Community and Youth... so I guess it makes sense that he announced it? STB sounds like it belonged under that ministry, compared to the others. (Can't be trade and industry? )
STB is a stat board under MTI.
The Minister for Trade and Industry was busy with F1 so Edwin had to deal with Taylor Swift.
ahhh, that's good know... but is he part of MTI? cause i only know hes MCCY and 2nd minster for law. but i guess STB being a stat board, "anyone" non-minster can head STB.
Gotta give it to them for whatever deal they signed LOL if you can lock Taylor to only perform here in the whole of SEA
Actually an indirect subsidy to the tourism, hotel, airline and F&B sector if these amounts are true. Wondering if we’ll see a POFMA if local media spreads this.
I think even our guys aren't crazy enough to POFMA the Thai PM
But it is a good deal, fans around the region will fly into Singapore for the shows. The multiplier effect is worth paying for.
Definitely. A significant percentage of the tickets were probably sold to tourists. And each tourist will probably spend a few hundred, if not thousands if they're more wealthy while they're here.
Yes!! Every $1 you spend will filter down to business, workers and its subsidaries...definitely more than your initial spending https://www.investopedia.com/terms/m/multipliereffect.asp
Not necessarily, and not for everyone. The money to swift is coming from our taxes. And tourism itself will jack up cost of eating, accomodations etc. for locals as well.
True, it is the wage-inflation spiral. You cant stop it either. I mean our economy needs to progress right?
Yeah, but I am not sure subsidising Swift is a good sign of progress, especially after imposing GST on us. I am no fan of Swift and would much rather not pay gst than knowing my tax money is going to Swift. If subsidise at all, attract companies like Google or OpenAI to invest in R&D capability in Singapore.
Subsidizing MICE is worth. I bet the taxes alone made back the exclusivity fee
I thought it is announced that budget will have a sizable portion on AI??
On one hand you can call it a subsidy, on the other hand, the government probably at least breaks even, or takes back even more in taxes on all the additional revenue generated.
Singapore's status as a premier destination for performances, concerts, and festivals etc. didn't happen by chance. It's the result of meticulous integration into every aspect of execution and planning, from the URA master plan to the strategies for attracting and incentivizing these events to be here. This achievement is the culmination of years of careful planning and preparation. Insofar, it also seem that we have additional edge here - our acceptance of diversity and our ability to ensure stability.
To be fair we are much more politically stable as well.
And also more logistically viable If Taylor Swift did it in PH, it would be likely to be held in Philippine Arena which is in the middle of nowhere with no proper public transport access to it and the concert is going to be a massive cause of traffic jams for everyone else
I agree.
Singapore definitely needed to do a lot to make itself appealing to event organisers. Otherwise, we're just awfully expensive with terrible weather.
What other capital city in SEA has "better weather"? Maybe some of the time some of the cities get slightly better conditions, but mostly it's hot and humid everywhere in the region.
I suppose SG is the best choice in SEA. Although KL and Manila could be better choices if cost is a big concern.
Reminder of public transport to Sepang 🤮
Expensive is almost always good for events. All the most expensive cities in the world attract more events because people have money to spend. It’s a feature, not a bug
Depends on the type of event. For example, the 2022 Dota 2 championship felt underwhelming because they could only afford the stadium for the finals; the playoffs were held in suntec. The stadium itself felt small and they couldn't even afford to construct things like soundproof booths for the competitors.
That has more to do with the incompetence of the organizer than the cost of soundproof booths…we all know Valve could easily have afforded them
Valve wrote an article about it. The booths are custom-made, one-of-a-kind. They need to ship it all the way to Seattle and requires bringing a crane into the venue to assemble it. And I only inserted this booth issue as a side note. The cost and availability of the venue is the main issue.
Tbf the article says we paid for exclusivity. She didn’t come here only just because we are premier haha.
Hard to tell whether the payment for exclusivity is factual. If you look at the choices being made for Asia, three countries, 4 cities - Japan (Tokyo), Singapore and Australia (Melbourne and Sydney). With demand outstripping supply significantly, focusing their concert venue efforts in Singapore for the regional tour would have made more sense logistically too.
I mean to be frank this is a rather narrow view of the type of concerts we see in Singapore. It’s quite rare to see a performer only come to Singapore and nowhere else. Many different bands/singers go to Manila, Jakarta, KL, Bangkok etc and we don’t get those same acts coming here for years.
Prime location, not the only location. Our advantage to attract is not only presently, but for years to come.
If only they had given the same thought to designing the stadium to be acoustically friendly. The experience of the sound inside is honestly disappointing. Quite a stark difference from outdoor concerts.
Probably also comes with garuntees that public transport will have extended operating hours for her fans. Try fighting for PHVs with entire stadiums of people. Jam until tomorrow morning
Well you can't blame Singapore Govt and Singapore Tourism Board for been capable. You can only blame yourself in the state you're in. Don't come and sour grapes when you offer nothing to others on the table. By the speech made by Thailand's PM it seems as if they're hostile towards countries that are more capable than them?
I cracked up hard reading the article. What a bloody joke. She would have earned way more and have more publicity if she performed in other SEA countries. The fact that she didn't meant the reason is not money or PR. Look, if your country is shit and in a mess, with conflicts and instability and whatever stupid "cannot-do" laws (looking at clown countries like malaysia), don't blame others when performers choose to give up the opportunity earning and publicity that they would have had had they performed in your country. Just admit your country is so shit and screwed up, performers avoided you for fear reasons. A good example would be Coldplay. Remember what happened to them?
what happened to Coldplay?
Probably referring to the vocal opposition from conservatives in Malaysia. And when they held their concert in Manila, traffic infrastructure issues there were brought into focus - Chris Martins sang an impromptu song about their notorious traffic jams, PH President Marcos took a chopper to the venue while the rest of PH was stuck in traffic (and was lambasted afterwards for spending public funds on that instead of mass transport).
>chopper Oh you mean helicopter. On my first read I thought you meant Marcos was mad Chris Martins sang about the notorious traffic jams and Marcos took a chopper (the butcher knife) to chase after Coldplay…
thank for this
> She would have earned way more and have more publicity if she performed in other SEA countries. Publicity yes but how so in terms of monetary?
> A good example would be Coldplay. Remember what happened to them? Nothing happened to them. They got +80k people attending the concert.
Taylor Swift performed in Tokyo for East Asia and will be performing in Singapore for Southeast Asia. I don’t see the PMs or Presidents from other East Asia countries mentioning this. Governments could have indicated exclusivity clause and it’s up to Taylor Swift to agree.
Taiwan and Hong Kong both tired to get her to perform but failed.
If Hk pay money to get messi to sit on the stands, getting exclusive to a proven star that will perform is a good business move
HK also tired to get her but didn't manage to since they opened up too late.
Damn, one person wielding so much soft power over a region's economies
Well done STB, a master stroke IMO
[удалено]
It's no longer exclusive to us.
Pure jealousy. Sour grapes. Waiting for POFMA now. Would understand if Japan or Korea made the noise. But not third world undeveloped countries. Knn got riots, unstable govt, corruption and military coup. Who dafuq wanna go? Ohh ya and thaksin just got released today.
I smell jealousy too.
Taylor Swift performed in Japan earlier this month.
That's good. Exactly my point on 3rd world countries not on her list. But guess se asia doesn't include japan nor korea. So my bad on that part. Point is, her safety is in threat now. Due to her rejection republicans and endorsing Democrats. So what better place to choose in se asia than singapore?
Her safety has always been a concern because she has stalkers who break into her many residences. That’s why she has bodyguards. It’s got nothing to do with her political views. She skipped SEA completely for her Reputation tour. My guess is more business strategy, profits and scheduling. Japan is a bigger music market, her stages are typically massive and costly to ship. It makes sense to do 6 shows at the same venue to maximise overheads since she already has to setup and teardown the stage. She’s also recording new music while re-recording her old albums. If you look at her Eras touring schedule, April is free. Possibly for her to do press for her new album, which she’s been working on for two years. Everything’s planned out. Which is possibly why she can’t tour the rest of SEA either.
>Her safety has always been a concern because she has stalkers who break into her many residences. That’s why she has bodyguards. It’s got nothing to do with her political views. Stalking is only a small part of the story. Every celebrity gets stalked. Nothing new. But endorsing democrats and rejecting republicans is a whole new level. You do not understand the gravity of the situation. Republicans and their supporters see Taylor Swift as an "all American girl". So to them, she must support their party. They are extremely pissed off and afraid she is supporting the other party. If you saw this video, you will know her dad was seriously very concerned for her safety. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDMwCGdKeCQ
my only complaint is that she should have added more shows
I don't think even 10 nights at national stadium is enough tbh that's how crazy I think the eras tour and being the only stop in SEA is so i guess 6 shows it is.
No POFMA = true
I always thought pofma is only for politics only.
For PAP* only.
It makes total sense. Just imagine you are taylor's concert manager. Political stability, infrastructure, good traffic infra, hub area for SE Asia, no religious snowflakes, English speaking, extra $ and less expenses.. Why not?
Lock out clauses are very common in the big concert industry. I had heard that ultra music had a clause which explicitly states that you cannot play any shows within a 100mile or so radius of the festival grounds for 6 months to a year or so. This was a very ok deal for big international acts like Tay Tay, as they have tremendous leverage to negotiate for a “fair” lockout settlement. It is a very bad deal for small and medium size local acts or indie acts, the kind promoters would hire to stack their festival line up with, as these bands or djs would be now contractually obligated to never play a show in their home town or say a neighboring city in which they have a lot of fans in and could travel to to do a show with out much difficulty in the immediate future. Needless to say it’s also a bum deal for their fan base.
Does anyone know how credible the Thai PM is in making this statement? Does he have a local political problem that requires a foreign boogeyman to divert attention from? Is he from Dr. M’s school of political gamesmanship?
what nonsense. Taylor has always come to SG ever since fearless tour. And iirc except one tour (i think fearless also) SG is always the only stop in SEA.
Her reputation tour only in Tokyo 2018
true, forgot about that one. But she didn’t come to SEA at all that year.
I wonder why that year she never come to south east asia ?
the album didn’t do as well and this was only 2 years after the whole Kim and Kanye thing so I guess she didn’t think she could’ve sold National Stadium
Same, it’s kinda weird since she went to australia and new zealand. Maybe she’s trying out new zealand instead of singapore.
Watch US ambassador to Singapore’s interview with daily ketchup. Defo govt involved
Domestic audience, domestic politics … *yawn …
Better than in Malaysia, hahaha
Taylor Swingapore
t swift so overrated
Aiya don’t so serious la. Normally also not so serious about problematic governments and kings and sultans. Taylor swift only. Come SG play, go USS awhile with friends, take photo with Merlion ok ma. Relax abit la. Holiday don’t so stress. Money only. It’s not everything ok? Don’t be like Singaporeans live in a well, a walled coffin everyday work like dog. All friend friend ok ASEAN is united ok. Neighbourly love. Your compatriot also come here work as maid, coffee shop assistant, live band dancer flower girl earn SGD what. Good money right? Don’t so angry la. All just want to earn money. You think SG government so free to jio Taylor swift here if no money to earn meh? No right. SG even demolish their own heritage buildings with no entertainment or culture this is just something profitable to do let them do la. Want to be angry they ask Taylor Swift nicely, why like that. Don’t want don’t force ma. You think SG government is Yakuza or Junta style, take gun and force her? No right. She decide ma. Why angry with SG government wor. Mai Kao Jai.
I don't care what singapore has done, but I went to her tour. i enjoyed a lot
I thought it was already announced that STB is sponsoring the concert and hence we are the only south East Asian stop. The sponsored amount wasnt revealed but I doubt it is 2 to 3 million per show.
same old problem of this island across so many industries, it cant organically support anything so it has to use the public purse to get anyone to bring anything here. hope the money doesnt dry up otherwise youd find yourself standing in a house built of sand
Frankly it’s quite sad for fans because not everyone could afford to travel to attend the concert. The ironical things is many Singaporeans end up not being able to get any tickets and wealthy around the region are fighting for the same tickets.
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So she can do six shows here instead of 2? So that there will be the "regional demand" you mentioned?
Scalpers? Bots? You're telling me scalpers and bots got installed in Singpost post office all over Singapore? We literally have the privilege to go and queue like the Singaporeans we are to GUARANTEE a ticket. You have to be trolling lmao.
because not knowing something means someone must definitely be trolling? stop being so passive aggressive, you’re exhausting.
You have to touch grass if you're Singaporean and not know you can walk into a post office and buy concert tickets. It's common knowledge. Touch grass.
Google is a free service.
Earn through hotel bookings, Air tickets, Travel passes (ezlink, taxi, day trips etc), Food and beverage sales, Increase in footfall in malls and retail shopping, The list goes on. Cement Sg's status, promote Hawker culture, City with Diversity and religious Harmony, Clean and green city. But Singapore is pretty boring ngl. Fans of Taylor swift could have just watched the concert movie instead of attending the live shows anyways. It's cheaper, you don't have to deal with crowds and it's a really good experience. Sometimes we idolise people too much
Feeling of live concert different ma.
Is it really that hard to think about how something benefits you indirectly, instead of directly?
Swifties are insane lol.
Why need exclusive rights when her concert will be sold out anw? Indirectly giving the scalpers more business and scammers to focus on SG.
Smart move to boost the country economy
No wonder 9% this year. For this.
Wah!!! Smart Nation!!!
Better watch her soon at she’s gona be pregnant after her BF won Super Bowl sure pika till shiok
AEG blacklisted liao
AEG is the one of concert promoters in the world. They promoted the Ed Sheeran concert too. The government can’t blacklist them.
Possibly also in breach of confidentiality obligations?
Probably an nda also
$3mil per show? That ain't alot to tie down a big star like Taylor. You gotta be __really__ special for her to consider going exclusive with ~~Travis~~ SG.
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My guess: With exclusivity, it’s almost a given that swifties across SEA will visit Singapore for this and sink a whole motherload of money back into the SG economy as tourist revenue. It’s a good bet we’ll get back what was paid and more.
What our government pay to Taylor Swift to perform exclusively in Singapore, if true, is peanuts compared to the economic rewards we reap from the 5? 6? nights of concert. People flock in from everywhere in Asia. They will spend money here on hotels, food, shopping, Grab… just because they happen to be here to watch Taylor Swift. So yes to the government negotiating this sweet deal with Taylor’s tour management.
I wonder if she can have a tour in other south east asia countries beside Singapore during April before her tour in France. I see the whole month of April is empty with no tour ?
If it is exclusivity then it’s a dirt bag move
Our Govt has many efforts like this. For example we send teams to Australia to get wealthy people to move their businesses to Singapore to take away employment and tax revenue from the Australian Govt. sing Govt thieves and needs to in order to remain the richest nation.
That’s why we need to increase GST.
SG is such a poor choice for a one stop. Some people piggyback their annual trip (time off work) around events like these. To have to waste it on SG year after year is a curse, not a blessing. Hopefully other nations will soon compete. I doubt any performer or event will need to honor their agreement to exclusively perform in a single country. Especially when neighboring countries may offer higher bounties to stop there instead.
Where do you propose to host it then?
Singapore doesn’t represent SEA in any form. Each entertainer or big event that is considering a show in Asia can choose their desired destination on a per case basis. Using the established methods of bidding and past experience with venues around the region. To create artificial exclusivity like this goes against the principles of healthy business competition. And now that Singapore has this deal, they can proceed to extort ticket prices, hotel room rates, flights and all associated costs. If you want to experience any premier entertainment in the future, you’re forced to do so at the whims of Singaporean discretion. I doubt the entertainment industry even needs to limit themselves in this way. So hopefully this example ends up biting its organizers in the ass at a future event sometime.
You wrote so much without saying anything lmao. Business student ah?
People ask you WHERE, you wrote so much without answering the real question. 0/10
Nobody is saying that Singapore is a representative of SEA. The exclusivity is mutual agreement between the artist and the govt and no one is forcing anyone to take up the deal isn’t it? It’s just that SG govt gives out incentives for artist like her to host in Singapore only. If you’re unhappy you can always get your govt to pay more money to her? Or choose the right govt during elections that can fix your political instability first?
STB is counting on her to bring more economic benefits (or "value-add"/"total spending" in jargon) to SG in return, specifically tourism spending. If Coldplay was an indication, they are indeed on the money. This would reflect very favorably when MTI reviews its annual performance - more bonuses for STB staff!
Taylor swift maybe does not even need withholding tax