Women Lead the Charge in L.A.’s Live Music Scene

LOS ANGELES, April 14, 2025 — Despite the prevailing gender disparities in the music industry, eight women in Los Angeles are transforming the concert landscape, dominating bookings at the city’s most iconic venues. These women hold the reins in an industry historically skewed toward male leadership.

As the city prepares for Pollstar‘s Women of Live event kicking off Monday evening, the female bookers shared insights into their careers and the evolving dynamics within live music. Los Angeles is a must-stop for virtually every major concert tour, showcasing legendary locations like the Rose Bowl, the Coliseum, Crypto.com Arena, and SoFi Stadium, all managed by these industry trailblazers.

“I am especially proud of booking the AC/DC concert. It was my first show when I joined the arena in Ohio, and it cemented my desire to pursue this career,” said one of the bookers, reflecting on pivotal moments that shaped their paths. Another added, “Booking J Balvin was a game-changer for me. I truly realized the passionate fan base in October 2019; women were throwing bras on stage!”

These experiences highlight not only personal milestones but also a shift in how women’s roles are perceived in the industry. One booker noted, “When I started, it felt like women were merely vying for their space. Now, we uplift one another.” This camaraderie among women is essential in challenging the male-dominated c-suites and producer roles.

The conversation around women in executive positions has notably shifted. Instead of competition, the focus has transitioned toward collaboration and support. “If we nurture each other, in time, conversations about women in exec roles will be a norm,” one booker expressed.

Looking ahead, the women predict that technology will play a more significant role in concert experiences. “We are exploring mediums that engage fans both live and virtually,” a booker said, emphasizing that the essence of live performances will remain irreplaceable. “The thrill of a live concert will always resonate deeply.”

With a sizable volume of talent, the competition in the L.A. market is intense. Another booker told a humorous story about the challenges of booking: “We must accommodate SoFi Stadium’s fixed schedule while managing our artists’ touring cycles. Meticulous calendar management is crucial.”

Moreover, despite some male allies supporting women’s advancement, the need for heightened advocacy is apparent. “Male leaders must publicly champion women, showcasing their achievements and importance to the industry,” stated another booker.

There is a clear call to action within the live music sphere. “We need to reflect the diversity of our talent across all roles. 2023 was significant for female artists, and now we should elevate female talent in every segment of the business,” emphasized another female leader.

The contributions of these women extend beyond their roles as bookers; they symbolize the persistent need for progress in the industry. As the live music sector continues to evolve, their commitment to gender representation and support for upcoming female leaders will undoubtedly pave the way for lasting change.