[Rick Lee]

Well, back when I was playing bars in college, we just had a $3 cover charge and the four of us split the door money at the end of the night, minus the bar tab, maybe a tip for the bouncer.

I would think the merchandise is where the money is at with big time bands. I mean, look at how huge an operation it is to put on a single show at a big amphitheater. Aside from the 50-100 road crew, they hire local union guys for the gig, have a big electricity bill, huge costs for trucks, hotels, per diems and equipment rental. But when you see them selling concert shirts for $30-$40 a pop, well, they have to make money there.