Bruce Springsteen, the legendary American singer-songwriter known as “The Boss”, recently announced a string of stadium shows in Ireland as part of his 2023 world tour. However, some fans have expressed disappointment that tickets to these shows sold out in record time, leaving many unable to get seats.
What was the initial reaction to the Ireland shows being announced?
When Bruce Springsteen first announced he would be playing shows in Dublin and Cork as part of his 2023 tour, there was widespread excitement across Ireland. Springsteen has performed in Ireland several times before, but his upcoming shows were set to be his first performances in the country since 2016. Irish fans were eager to see one of rock music’s most acclaimed live performers back on stages across the country.
How quickly did the Ireland shows sell out?
The Bruce Springsteen Ireland shows sold out rapidly, with all tickets being purchased just hours after going on sale to the public. The Dublin concert at Marlay Park scheduled for May 2023 sold out in under 10 minutes. The Cork concert at Páirc Uí Chaoimh on May 30 sold out in under 15 minutes. Such quick sellouts are almost unheard of in Ireland and underscored the huge demand among Irish fans to see “The Boss” perform.
What was the reaction from fans unable to get tickets?
Many Bruce Springsteen fans in Ireland were left disappointed and frustrated when they were unable to purchase tickets before the concerts were listed as sold out. Ticket reseller sites showed tickets being resold shortly after for substantially inflated prices, sometimes up to 5-10 times their original face value. Fans aired annoyance at scalpers buying up large quantities of tickets only to flip them for profit. Some questioned why concert promoter MCD did not use measures to ensure a more fair ticket distribution.
Did the tour promoter MCD anticipate such high demand?
In the aftermath of the swift Bruce Springsteen Ireland shows sellouts, MCD stated they were aware these concerts would be incredibly popular and high demand was expected. However, even they acknowledged being surprised at just how rapidly all 150,000+ tickets were purchased across the Dublin and Cork dates. MCD revealed they worked closely with Ticketmaster to try and ensure smooth sales and prevent scalping, but the phenomenal demand outstripped all expectations.
How do the Ireland shows sellouts compare to other stops on the tour?
The Bruce Springsteen Ireland concerts sellouts stand out even compared to other dates on his global 2023 tour. Shows across Europe and North America have also proven highly popular, with most dates selling out quickly. However, not as rapidly as Ireland, where the combination of limited dates and Springsteen’s legendary popularity resulted in an unprecedented ticketing frenzy.
Could additional Ireland dates be added?
After the instantaneous sellouts, many Bruce Springsteen fans called for additional Ireland concert dates to be added. However, MCD has stated the two dates are the only Ireland stops planned on this tour. Springsteen is playing limited concerts globally, making extra shows unlikely. There is slight hope more may eventually be added if his schedule allows, but nothing is confirmed.
Are resale tickets the only option now for fans?
Unfortunately for Bruce Springsteen fans in Ireland without tickets, the secondary resale market is now the only option left to attend these shows. Sites like Viagogo are listing resale tickets but at hugely inflated prices. Fans frantically trying to find face value tickets on regular resale sites have almost no chance now unless further dates are added.
Is this a sign Springsteen is sold out in Ireland?
The unparalleled demand for Bruce Springsteen’s Ireland concerts that resulted in them selling out in record time has led some to question whether “The Boss” has now become a “sold out” act in the country. However, this perception is unfair and misguided. Springsteen remains a legendary performer who is tremendously passionate about giving his fans epic live shows. These Ireland dates selling out so quickly only demonstrates that his popularity in the country has not waned whatsoever.
How has Springsteen stayed connected to his Irish fanbase?
Beyond periodically touring in Ireland, Bruce Springsteen has actively stayed connected with his Irish fanbase in other ways as well. He has interacted with Irish fans on social media, forged close personal connections with Irish musicians like Bono, and said he has felt a special kinship with Ireland since first performing there in the 1980s. Springsteen has purposefully cultivated this relationship, ensuring his Irish fans feel appreciated.
Does Springsteen still give his all at live shows?
Anyone alleging Bruce Springsteen is now a “sold out” act clearly has not attended one of his recent marathon live shows. At 73 years old, Springsteen still performs electrifying concerts lasting 3+ hours, diving into crowd-pleasing hits, covers, and rarities. His energy and stage presence remains boundless. If anything, Springsteen seems more committed than ever to delivering legendary concerts fans will never forget.
Has Springsteen priced out Irish working-class fans?
Some have claimed expensive ticket prices for these Ireland shows have made Bruce Springsteen’s concerts unaffordable for working-class Irish fans. However, while undeniably pricey, his tickets remain comparable to or often less expensive than other major rock acts touring Ireland and Europe. When demand is so astronomical, supply and demand inevitably drive prices up.
| Bruce Springsteen Dublin Ticket Prices | The Rolling Stones Dublin Ticket Prices |
|---|---|
| €86 – €156 | €117 – €399 |
Springsteen actually remains committed to having affordable seating options for fans, proven by the lowest price tiers for these Ireland dates selling out first.
Is Springsteen still releasing relevant new music?
It’s true Bruce Springsteen has not released an album of new original songs since 2020’s Letter to You. However, he remains very active musically. His 2023 tour will showcase new unreleased songs written recently. Springsteen also just collaborated with John Mellencamp on an album and previously reunited with the E Street Band for new music. He may not be prolific, but he is still engaged in creating ambitious new projects.
Conclusion
The overwhelming ticket demand that resulted in Bruce Springsteen’s upcoming Ireland concerts instantly selling out does not equate to him being a “sold out” act. If anything, it is a testament to his enduring legendary status and the special connection he has forged with fans in the country for over 40 years. At 73, Springsteen remains an tireless live performer who still prioritizes giving his audiences an epic experience. The swift sellouts were more a reflection of his popularity rather than any notion he has abandoned his principles. Bruce Springsteen has certainly not sold out Ireland, if anything, the country’s fans have only grown more loyal and devoted to “The Boss.”
