2024 Election Spending by Live Music's Top Bosses Mostly Flat With 2020: Where Did They Donate?

Introduction

Contributions from the nation’s leading music executives to Democratic candidates in the upcoming 2024 election cycle are expected to remain on par with their 2020 levels, according to an early analysis by OpenSecrets. As of September 2023, executives from the top 20 live music companies had donated a total of $1.7 million to federal candidates, with the vast majority of that money going to Democrats. Republicans have fallen into favor this time around.

Top Donors

The top donor among live music executives so far is Michael Rapino, CEO of Live Nation Entertainment, who has given $255,100 to candidates and party committees. Rapino is a longtime supporter of Democratic candidates and has donated heavily to both President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama in the past. Other top donors include: * Irving Azoff, chairman and CEO of Azoff MSG Entertainment: $200,000 * Daniel Ek, CEO of Spotify: $150,000 * Lucian Grainge, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group: $105,000 * Marc Geiger, CEO of Warner Music Group: $100,000

Where the Money Is Going

The majority of the money donated by live music executives is going to Democratic candidates. So far this cycle, Democrats have received $1.4 million from these donors, compared to just $300,000 for Republicans. The top recipients of donations from live music executives are: * Democratic National Committee: $400,000 * Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee: $250,000 * Biden Victory Fund: $200,000 * House Majority PAC: $150,000 * Senate Majority PAC: $100,000

Conclusion

With the 2024 election still a year away, it is too early to say how much money live music executives will ultimately donate to candidates. However, the early numbers suggest that these donors are likely to play a significant role in the upcoming election cycle.