Live Nation CEO Defends Practices in Antitrust Trial

In a closely watched antitrust trial in Manhattan federal court, Live Nation Entertainment Chief Executive Michael Rapino testified Thursday, defending his company's dominant role in the live music industry while condemning internal messages from employees that mocked fans over high fees.

Rapino, who has led the company since its formation 21 years ago, faced hours of questioning from attorney Jeffrey Kessler, representing 33 states and the District of Columbia. The states allege that Live Nation and its ticketing subsidiary, Ticketmaster, maintain a monopoly through exclusivity deals that stifle competition, drive up ticket prices and impose excessive fees on consumers. The U.S. Department of Justice, which initiated the lawsuit two years ago, reached a settlement with Live Nation last week, securing concessions aimed at promoting competition and potentially reducing costs for concertgoers. Six states joined that agreement, but the remaining plaintiffs are pressing forward, seeking to force a divestiture of Ticketmaster.

Rapino expressed pride in transforming a fragmented industry into an organized system that benefits artists and fans. "I'm very proud," he said, crediting Live...