2005 a record year for concerts

FRESNO, Calif., Dec. 30 (UPI) -- The North American concert business had another record year in 2005 with the Rolling Stones and U2 leading the way, Pollstar reported Friday.

Major North American concerts pulled in an estimated $3.1 billion in 2005, up from $2.8 billion in 2004, Pollstar said.

Fewer tickets were sold in 2005, but concertgoers paid more with an average ticket price of $57, a sharp increase from the 2004 average price of $52.39.

The Rolling Stones played 42 North American shows raking in $162 million while U2 pulled in $138.9 million with 78 concerts.

Third was Celine Dion, who made $81.3 with her Las Vegas stint at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Paul McCartney raked in $77.3 million to place fourth, followed by The Eagles, $76.8 million; Elton John, $65.8 million; Kenny Chesney, $61.8 million; Dave Matthews Band, $57 million; Neil Diamond, 47.3 million and Jimmy Buffet at No. 10 with $41 million.