The Value Of Being Important: How Much Would You Pay for VIP Tickets?

Photo By Daniel Kramer

How much would you pay to be in front of all of those hands in the air?

Very. Important. Person. For music fans those three words conjure up images of skipping out on standing in line, being at the side of the stage while the show takes place, and partying with the band backstage after the show. VIPs vacation in the world of rock excess, if they're rich or famous (or both) enough. For most concert goers it's a world that remains largely off limits, a wish made while you're stuck 30 feet back from the barrier with the abnormally tall guy blocking your line of sight.

Promoters know the value of a label and are now willing to sell you a modified version of that wish if you can afford it. If you're willing to drop the cash through VIP Nation you can get everything from early access to the venue up to a meet and greet session with the band.

Ask yourself: in these hard economic times how much would you spend for your dream concert experience?

Ask a group of people sitting in the VIP section why they paid up to triple the cost of a regular ticket and you're likely to find two types of people: superfans and people who love live music but hate dealing with crowds. But is limited edition swag, upfront seating and early entry in to the venue really worth the cost? Rocks Off takes a look at some of the VIP packages being offered for upcoming shows to see what people are paying and what they're getting.

Photo By GROOVEHOUSE

Megadeth (Gigantour 2012)
Special Package: Ultimate VIP - $250
Big Draw: "Meet and Greet photo op with Megadeth band members"
Price Difference: $190

Ever dreamed of having your photo taken with one of the "Big 4"? Now you can, but you'll be paying a big 4 times the amount of a regular general admission ticket. With that photo op you get the standard perks of merchandise and early entry to the show but don't expect to get anything signed; according to the VIP Nation Facebook page, the band is more interesting in interacting with fans rather than signing things. Leave your Dave Mustaine VMNT Peace Sells guitar at home but don't fret -- you're getting a signed poster. (VIP Nation assures that Dave has an excellent signature.)

Photo By Craig Hlavaty

Nickelback
Special Packages: Rockstar Reserved/Rockstar General Admission - $225
Big Draw: Limited edition tour swag, close seating
Price Difference: $100

If getting a prime seat to this show sounds too good to be true, well, it is. The Rockstar Reserved packages are already sold out for this, and with good reason: this show has the best cost:value ratio on the list. $100 ticket + $35 shirt + $30 poster and you're already most of the way to paying the VIP price, plus now you'll have a fancy Nickelback tour laminate to put in your scrapbook. Play your cards right with your early admission to the floor and you might just be the one Chad Kroeger sings "How You Remind Me" to.