Live Nation has acquired one of Japan’s leading live music promoters for domestic and international artists.
Hayashi International Promotions (HIP) has brought a number of international stars to the world’s second largest music market including Bruno Mars and Maroon 5, as well as revered local artists.
The purpose of the deal is to leverage Live Nation’s global network and HIP’s extensive local expertise to enhance Japan’s live music landscape, bringing further international acts to the country and promoting J-pop on the global stage.
“HIP is one of Japan’s iconic concert companies, and we’re honoured they’ve chosen to join Live Nation,” commented Michael Rapino, chief executive and president of Live Nation Entertainment.
“As Kaori continues to build on the incredible legacy her family started, we’re excited to partner with her and the HIP team to bring even more live music to fans across Japan.”
The deal also strengthens Live Nation’s existing presence in Japan, with major acts like Oasis and Kylie Minogue due to perform in 2025.
Hayashi International Promotions chief executive Kaori Hayashi will oversee the combined business.
“HIP has been at the heart of Japan’s live music scene for over 40 years, and our focus has always been on delivering incredible concerts for fans,” said Hayashi.
“Partnering with Live Nation allows us to keep doing this with greater scale, giving Japanese artists the opportunity to perform to new audiences and strengthening Japan’s position as a must-visit destination for major acts.”
The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.