Live Nation Japan Ramps Up By Adding Talent Buyer James Smith

null – James Smith
Live Nation

Live Nation has signaled its ongoing commitment to Japan with the concert giant announcing the hiring of longtime talent buyer James Smith as VP of touring and festivals.

Based in Tokyo, Smith will focus on attracting top global artists to Live Nation’s growing number of events across Japan. He will report to Live Nation Japan President John Boyle.

Smith has booked premier talent for Japan’s major Fuji Rock festival which draws 100,000 fans annually and has featured international stars such as Kendrick Lamar, Major Lazer, The xx, Aphex Twin and others.

 “James’s knowledge of Japan’s music industry runs deep, and he has a true passion to unite artists with fans, existing and new,” said Boyle. “His dedication and expertise makes him the perfect addition to Live 

 

Nation’s team to help us expand our business as we continue to meet the growing demand for international concerts in Asia. I can’t wait to see what amazing shows we create together for the people of Japan thanks to his extraordinary vision.”

Live Nation operates across 10 markets in Asia including China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand.

“My ultimate goal is to bring acts from all over the world to Japan, which is why I’m so excited to be joining Live Nation entertainment and begin tapping into their unparalleled artist pipeline,” said Smith. “There is enormous potential in this market and I plan to maximize these opportunities for growth with a hands-on and artist-centric approach.”

Live Nation cites Bruno Mars as an example of the strength of the Asian touring market, as the 24K Magic World Tour sold out 14 shows across seven Asian cities according to Live Nation.

Three shows from that run were reported to Pollstar, with 36,891 tickets sold April 20-23 to the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai, which grossed just under $6.2 million.