Billboard Live - History of the Concept
For over a century, Billboard Magazine has been recognized as the international "Bible" of the recording and home entertainment industries. Read by over 200 million people in 110 different countries, the magazine's rating charts have become the world's definitive outgrowth of Billboard Magazine's industry recognition and strong reputation, in 1990 the Billboard Music Awards show was created. The success of these awards shows, seen by over 300 million people worldwide, inspired Billboard Magazine to establish a new and exciting way to reach out to their public following.... the creation of Billboard Live International, a multi-dimensional entertainment company that will capitalize on the popularity and universality of music through the development of the 104-year old Billboard brand.
The primary focus of Billboard Live's operations will be high-energy, destination-based entertainment venues which integrate a live music hall (also used as a discotheque), a themed restaurant and bar, and specialty retail store(s). In addition, the Company will promote the Billboard Live brand and capitalize on the live musical content created at its venues through a number of synergistic businesses including radio and television production, new media programming, internet sales, and the presentation and sponsoring of both domestic and international Billboard Music Awards Shows. An archive of all broadcasts or performances from all the global units will be created and owned by the Company.
Billboard has proven itself to be a magazine of firsts: the first Show Biz trade magazine; the first magazine to cover all branches of the industry (both indoor and outdoor); the first publication to devote a special section to Black and Latino performers and music buyers. Now Billboard Magazine introduces the first genuine multi-faceted live entertainment venue company - Billboard Live International (BLI).
Under the direction of its Chairman, Mitchell Chait, Billboard Live International has obtained the exclusive license rights to exploit the Billboard name in restaurants, clubs, television, radio, internet sales, merchandise, and multiple Billboard music awards shows. Billboard Live International has obtained these rights for an unprecedented term of 99 years with an option for an additional 99 years assuring a permanent, lasting partnership.
Billboard Live Asia has a regional master license for 50 years, assigning full rights to BLA for the period.
