Depeche Mode is playing at places the size of Hollywood Bowl.
But U2 is playing massive arenas like Rose Bowl, Soldier Field, etc.
How does U2 go about scheduling those dates? First, I assume they choose a season that won’t have heavy game dates at a stadium. I also assume those venues are more than happy to host a band like U2, so any date they don’t have pre-scheduled is probably open to the band.
But how is the deal actually made? Does Paul McGuinness call some 1-800 # to reach the Colosseum or Dodger Stadium or whatever, then ask to schedule some dates? Or is he too big for that stuff nowadays? Or do they just go to some scheduling site and select a block of dates for venues?
Normally they announce one night, and when it sells out in 18 seconds, they announce a second night, and sometimes a third and fourth. I assume those dates are pre-arranged with the venue. “In case we sell out in under a minute, we’d like to open additional dates.”
I’m just curious about a lot of the details behind a huge act like them.