Headliner

About Headliner

Headliner, established in 2018, operates as a platform facilitating live, interactive virtual concerts for artists to connect with their global fanbase. The Santa Monica-based company was co-founded by Matt Smolin, who serves as CEO, alongside Frederique Dame, Stuart Raftus, and Adrian Pelosi. The venture initially set out to democratize concert ticket sales but pivoted its model to address the demand for high-quality virtual performance experiences, a need that became particularly acute during the global pandemic which halted in-person events.

The company's core offering is a live streaming service that enables musicians to host dynamic and interactive online shows. This platform provides artists with a medium to perform for a virtual audience, moving beyond the constraints of a physical stage and venue. Key features include ultra-low latency streaming, powered by Amazon Interactive Video Service (Amazon IVS), which is crucial for real-time engagement and creating an energetic atmosphere. Beyond the performance itself, Headliner integrates merchandise sales, offering artists an additional revenue stream during their live events. The service has been utilized by a range of musical acts, from rising singer-songwriters to prominent artists like Diplo, Lil Yachty, and Madison Beer, for events such as EP releases and virtual tours.

Headliner's business model appears to be centered on providing the technology and support for these virtual events, likely generating revenue through a combination of service fees, ticket sale commissions, and a percentage of merchandise sales conducted through the platform. The platform serves artists who want to reach a broader audience without the geographical limitations of a physical tour and fans seeking more personal and unique concert experiences they can enjoy from home. The company has received funding from the institutional investor TechNexus.