The All-American Rejects’ Tyson Ritter Slams Record Labels For Copying Backyard Shows

The All-American Rejects frontman Tyson Ritter has taken aim at major labels for “copy-pasting” intimate backyard gigs and “gatekeeping art.”

After MGK played a pop-up backyard show in Columbus, Ohio, The All-American Rejects’ Tyson Ritter took to social media to hit out at major record labels for co-opting “organic” backyard shows initially meant to bridge the gap between fans and artists in a time when ticket prices are at a soaring high.

Earlier today, Ritter reshared a screenshot of MGK’s backyard show to his Instagram story alongside the caption: “when you start a revolution and major labels wanna cop it…”

Later on, he posted a video to his story clarifying his position on the matter. “Just to clarify, this is no shade at any artist like MGK. This is more a slight to this big record company machine that’s trying to replicate something that’s been entirely organic, while ignoring the purpose of it – which isn’t to sell music,” he says.

The All-American Rejects frontman continues: “It’s to close a gap in the economic disparity where big ticket machines – that are literally breaking anti trust laws with…monopoly – are gatekeeping art, being the masters of the entire ecosystem of concerts. So, we’re building a platform for artists to actually have access to their audience via the kind-hearted backyards of those that might be willing to let them get in front of their fans that are at an eye level. And that’s the conversation we’re having here.”

“So if you’re in a big record company, quit fucking copy pasting our idea, do something to help bridge this horrible gap.”

The All-American Rejects have been making headlines in recent months after playing a string of tiny backyard shows at house parties, in basements, and even a bowling alley after ditching big shows for more intimate settings. The DIY nature of the sets saw them go viral online, and it seems major record labels have caught on and started trying to replicate them in kind with artists like MGK.

With concert ticket prices skyrocketing around the world, DIY and tiny pop-up gigs have seen mass popularity thanks to being financially accessible in opposition to stadium gigs.

Whether The All-American Rejects tiny show revolution does see art back in the hands of fans without them having to fork over hundreds to see their favourite acts play isn’t a safe bet. At the very least, for some lucky people in the United States, there’s one band they can count on to hit up house parties for a cheeky performance.