That didn’t take long…
In the wake of last week’s Pfizer vaccine news (and of course, Moderna had some news today), an exclusive report surfaced on Billboard claiming that Ticketmaster was looking into implementing a verification process that would require concert-goers to either have a COVID vaccine on file, or a a negative COVID test 24-72 hours prior to the show.
And whether it was just a misunderstanding or the public outrage that drove them to clear the air, Ticketmaster has since issued a clarifying statement:
The statement went on to explain:
“There is absolutely no requirement from Ticketmaster mandating vaccines/testing for future events. Unfortunately, this has been widely reported and is incorrect. Ticketmaster does not have the power to set policies around safety/entry requirements, which would include vaccines and/or testing protocols. That would always be up to the discretion of the event organizer, based on their preferences and local health guidelines.”
Regarding the possibility of a vaccine verification and/or COVID testing requirements, Ticketmaster also made a point to remind fans that: 1) This is still just a potential idea and is not being implemented at this time, 2) Like all safety/entry protocols, it would be up to the discretion of the event organizer to determine if they would like to ask attendees to provide a health verification, and 3) If it were to be made possible, all health information would legally have to be stored with a 3rd party health care provider with HIPAA-compliance, not with Ticketmaster.
So no need to panic quite yet, however the response we saw all across all different platforms of social media was widely against any form of vaccine requirement and/or pre-show testing. Many commented that there is no way in hell they would get the new vaccine to go to a concert, while a few said they would just to see live music again.
I would do it, I miss concerts and sporting events!
— tracy nanna (@tnanna39) November 12, 2020
I tested positive this past Friday and have been tested at least 30 times prior (I work in healthcare) I’m concert starved. What’s an extra swab for live music!?
— Megan (@MeganMarie289) November 11, 2020
Fuck @Ticketmaster
— Rock bus (@hardrockbus) November 11, 2020
Absolutely hell no
— Courtney (@CourtneyHellein) November 12, 2020
I will hold my concert in the living room!! No way I’m getting that vaccine!! 🤨
— Ovieohdoya (@Ovieohdoya1st) November 11, 2020
I go to 25-30 shows a year. As much as it sucks that I haven’t been to one in 9 months, i’m not afraid to keep the streak going if this is the stipulation.
— Justin Lewis (@justinclewis86) November 11, 2020
