Last week, AC/DC’s concert at Melbourne’s iconic MCG made a big impact—not just with their music but in a surprising way. The band’s intense performance, led by frontman Brian Johnson, 78, and guitarist Angus Young, 70, was so powerful it set off earthquake sensors nearby. This shows just how huge and energetic modern stadium tours have become, even with older rock stars still drawing massive crowds.
While fans celebrate these legendary artists, the music insurance industry is paying close attention to the risks involved. The recent death of Ozzy Osbourne has reminded many that age brings new challenges for performers. Insurers are now facing a growing question: how do you protect artists who remain popular but have health risks that come with getting older?
Industry experts Mark Hynds from Rokstone and Tim Thornhill from Tysers explained how they handle insurance for these seasoned performers. Hynds points out the need for fairness when it comes to pricing insurance. Younger artists shouldn’t have to pay for the higher risks linked to older stars, and vice versa. That’s why medical checks are important before insurance policies are finalized. These health reviews are transparent, and artists can choose the level of coverage they want, understanding that more coverage means higher costs.
Experience also plays a role in risks. Hynds notes that younger musicians may not fully understand the demands of touring, while veteran acts usually have well-organized teams and schedules that help manage those risks. Thornhill adds that the risks for older bands include not only cancellations caused by weather or venue issues but also whether the artists can still perform. For older bands, insurers often require full medical exams to get a clear picture of health concerns.
AC/DC’s Melbourne gig also highlighted another angle of risk. The ground vibrations triggered by thousands of fans jumping together show physical effects that go beyond the stage itself. This adds a new layer to what insurers need to consider.
Self-insurance—where artists cover potential losses themselves—has gained attention, but Hynds warns it’s risky. Big tours often mean spending millions upfront, and without insurance, many wouldn’t happen. Thornhill notes some older artists may skip or reduce insurance because they find it costly. Others may agree to higher deductibles to lower premiums.
Both experts agree that getting the price right is key to keeping insurance sustainable. It’s about charging premiums that reflect the actual risk, so the system can pay out claims when needed. With older artists, insurers and promoters often negotiate to find a coverage level that works for everyone. Over the past decade, technology and more detailed processes have made the insurance market more mature, though challenges remain.
Despite these hurdles, classic rock stars keep packing stadiums and delivering strong performances. For insurers, the goal is to keep up with this demand while managing risks wisely. In a way, as these musicians keep rocking on, the insurance world must keep its own beat.