Being on a verified fan waitlist for a concert, show, or event is a way to potentially get access to tickets before the general public. It requires fans to register ahead of time and provide details to verify they are a genuine fan of the artist or event.
What is a verified fan waitlist?
A verified fan waitlist is a system used for high-demand concert tours, shows, and events to give die-hard fans early access to tickets. It helps prevent tickets immediately selling out to bots and scalpers. Fans register for the waitlist, then the promoter or artist team reviews the registrations to verify fans and determine who gets early ticket access. Spots on the waitlist are limited.
The waitlist gives verified, dedicated fans a chance at tickets before the general on-sale date. This helps real fans get tickets at face value and avoid immediately inflated resale prices. It also builds excitement and loyalty among a performer’s biggest supporters.
Why do artists/promoters use waitlists?
Verified fan waitlists are popular because:
- They help prevent scalpers and bots from buying up all initial tickets.
- They reward loyal, genuine fans with early access.
- They generate buzz and excitement around a tour or event.
- They reduce negative PR from true fans being shut out of buying tickets.
Without a waitlist, tickets for hot shows can sell out instantly, leaving real fans frustrated and forced to pay very high resale prices. Waitlists give artists control over getting tickets directly to real fans first.
How do you get on a waitlist?
Fans sign up for waitlists on the artist’s website, fan club platform, promoter website, or sometimes through a ticketing site. There is usually a registration period leading up to the on-sale date.
To register, you need to provide info like:
- Name
- Email address
- Phone number
- City or zip code
You may also need to answer questions about your fan status, like:
- Favorite albums or songs
- Number of times you’ve seen the artist live
- Fan club membership status
Some waitlists have limited spots, so you have to register as early as possible once announced. Sign up for fan club or promotional emails so you know right when lists open.
What happens after you register?
After registering, there are a few steps before you can potentially get waitlist tickets:
- Verification – The artist or promoter team reviews all registrations and verifies fans based on info provided like concert history or fan club membership.
- Status notification – You will be notified if you are “verified” and given a spot on the waitlist. If you aren’t, you may be able to try again. Spots are limited.
- Code sent – If verified, you’ll be emailed a special code to access the ticket presale before the general public.
- Presale access – During the presale time window, use your code to access and purchase tickets.
This process may vary slightly depending on the event. But in general you register, get verified, then get a presale code if spots are available.
What are the benefits of being on a waitlist?
Benefits of getting on a verified fan waitlist include:
- Presale ticket access – This gives you a chance at tickets before the general public.
- Better seat options – Early access often means getting the best seat selections.
- Less competition from bots/scalpers – Waitlists weed out people just looking to resell tickets.
- More time to shop – Having a presale code lets you take time to browse options and check out.
By getting a spot on the waitlist, super fans can often get great seats at face value prices. It beats having to scramble during general on-sale against thousands of others fans.
What are the downsides?
Potential downsides of waitlists include:
- Limited availability – Spots fill up fast and you aren’t guaranteed one.
- Still may miss out – Even with a presale code, tickets can still sell out fast.
- Registration hassles – You need to remember to sign up early and provide detailed info.
- No guarantees – There’s no purchase guarantee even if you’re verified.
In general, waitlists reward fans who are organized and ready to jump through hoops. You still have to compete against other die-hard fans too. So there’s effort required for no sure reward.
Tips for getting a spot?
Here are some tips to improve your chances of getting a place on an exclusive verified fan waitlist:
- Sign up immediately – Registration periods are short, so don’t delay.
- Use fan club membership – Makes verification easy if you’re already a known fan.
- See multiple shows – Attending past concerts helps prove your dedication.
- Follow on social media – Artists may check platforms like Twitter or Instagram.
- Check fan forums – Big fan sites often list waitlist details as soon as available.
The more active you are in the fan community and the earlier you register, the better your chances. Be ready to prove your fan status too.
Can you improve your spot later?
Typically once registration closes, your status is set. But there are some cases where you may be able to improve your waitlist spot down the road:
- Joining the fan club after registering.
- Attending more recent shows of the artist.
- Purchasing merch or albums right when released.
- Sharing your fandom socially closer to the tour date.
It never hurts to continue engaging with your favorite acts. But focus on registering from the start, as late super fans likely won’t jump ahead on an existing list.
Are waitlists a guarantee of tickets?
Unfortunately, no. Even if you are verified and given a presale code, there is no guarantee you will get tickets. Some things to keep in mind:
- Registration does not guarantee you a spot on the actual waitlist.
- Being on the waitlist does not guarantee you a presale code.
- Having a presale code does not guarantee you will successfully buy tickets.
Verified fan waitlists help improve your chances and give you early access. But there are limited waitlist spots, presale ticket allotments, and competition against other dedicated fans.
How else can you get early ticket access?
Beyond waitlists, some other ways to get early ticket access include:
- Fan club presales – Official fan clubs often have ticket presales.
- VIP packages – Some events offer VIP ticket bundles with good seat options.
- Sponsor presales – Check presales from credit card companies or brands.
- Venue presales – Venues have presales for their loyalty members.
These all give fans a jump start on the general public. Combine waitlists with these options to maximize your chances and access.
Conclusion
Getting on an exclusive verified fan waitlist requires effort but can help die-hard fans get better concert ticket access. Waitlists reward fan loyalty and prevent scalpers from instantly gobbling up all tickets. Register as early as possible and continue engaging with the artist to improve your chances of getting a coveted waitlist spot. It’s not a guarantee of tickets but gives fans a big advantage over the stressful general on-sale.