While it stands out as an MLS facility, Red Bull Arena is now trying to solidify itself as a concert venue.
Recently, it was announced that the home of the New York Red Bulls will host broader slate of concerts starting next year. Signaling the seriousness of their intentions, Red Bull Arena officials hired BCL Entertainment CEO Bettie Levy to lead components relating to live performance, including booking for all music-related events.
With its location in Harrison, NJ and proximity to Newark and New York City, Red Bull Arena will certainly enter a crowded mix of concert venues. However, Red Bull Arena could be well suited to compete for concerts against similar outdoor venues, including MetLife Stadium. More from NJ.com:
Although the arena is much smaller than MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, today’s news will mean another large venue for local concert-goers to enjoy.
The stadium was also recently awarded the JD Power “Best In Fan Experience” selected from all sports and entertainment venues in the New York metro area. Areas evaluated included ticket purchase, arrival at the game, leaving the game, security/ushers, seating area/game experience, food/beverage, souvenir/merchandise, overall satisfaction, team performance and loyalty.
Earlier this year, there were some signs that the Red Bulls and Red Bull Arena were looking to find other events for the facility, including the possibility of an outdoor hockey game. If its reputation as a solid MLS venue carries over to its staging of concerts, it should resonate music lovers in the area.
Image courtesy New York Red Bulls.