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Franz Nicolay, keyboardist for The Hold Steady and author of Band People, took the witness chair in Congress on May 18. His testimony pulled together decades on the road, past lobbying for musicians’ rights, and a sharp critique of how today’s live-music business is run. He told lawmakers that the current system squeezes artists and fans alike, and called for fairer marketplaces for touring musicians.
From stages to Capitol Hill: why Nicolay spoke up
Nicolay is both a working musician and an advocate. He has toured with Against Me! and World/Inferno Friendship Society. He also wrote Band People, a book about backup singers, session players, and touring crew. In 2016 he pushed for the Fair Pay For Play Act.
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His perspective blends first-hand experience and policy advocacy. That made him a distinct voice at the hearing.
Key points from his congressional testimony
- Nicolay described the live-music market as tightly controlled by a single company.
- He warned that vertical integration lets one firm dominate venues, promotion, ticketing, and artist relations.
- He argued this structure reduces competition and weakens artists’ bargaining power.
- He explained how inflated fees and opaque pricing harm fans and strain artist–audience relationships.
He emphasized artists want direct, respectful ties with their audiences, not extractive corporate middlemen.
How this fits into the DOJ case against Live Nation and Ticketmaster
Two years ago, the Department of Justice sued Live Nation and Ticketmaster on antitrust grounds. The complaint accused the company of entrenching monopoly power across the live-entertainment supply chain.
Recent settlement and political context
Earlier this year, the DOJ and Live Nation reached a settlement rather than pursuing a breakup. The deal came amid political pressure from the White House and drew renewed scrutiny from members of Congress.
Maryland Representative Jamie Raskin chaired the most recent hearing. The session aired on C-SPAN and ran for about three hours. Nicolay’s testimony lasted roughly 55 minutes.
Why musicians and fans are paying attention
Nicolay laid out concrete harms audiences and performers face under concentrated control.
- Higher ticket prices and added fees for fans.
- Fewer independent promoters and venues able to compete.
- Artists losing leverage over tour terms and direct fan engagement.
He called for markets that let artists partner with companies that respect fans and sustainable touring practices.
Where to see and read the full testimony
The full video of Nicolay’s testimony is available through C-SPAN’s official X account. He also published an expanded version on his Substack, Piano Fighter.
