Not A Cash Grab?

All the bands we love monetize the heck out of everything possible: sky high concert tickets, meet and greets, overpriced merch, online auctions for special experiences, etc. Yesterday's post about Aerosmith's new museum in Las Vegas drew cries of "cash grab!" While I don't disagree, I tried to think of a single instance of a band doing something over the past three years that would not be considered a cash grab. I legit could not think of anything.

I recently saw Kings of Chaos. Two tickets were $180. That's a lot for a cover band. Cash grab.

KISS farewell tour and related merchandise. Cash grab.

Aerosmith, Guns n' Roses, Def Leppard stints in Las Vegas. Cash grab.

The Mega Cruise (Megadeth) this October. Cash grab.

But isn't that the point? This all based on capitalism. These bands have something we like and want, namely music and memories. We are happy to exchange our money for the music and more memories. I will be the first one to say concert ticket prices are out of control. Most folks can't afford shows anymore - and there is no reason why a crappy seat costs upwards of $100 or more these days. That is greed. But what is the limit? Who really gets to set the line of basic business versus cash grab? Each consumer votes with her wallet and that applies to everything: concert tickets, hair cuts, ice cream, anything. When I get priced out of something, I walk away or I compromise.

I used to go to tons of shows. That got way too pricey so now I do like two or three bigger shows a year. That seems to be working for me and my budget. Plus I just don't buy things anymore so that frees up more money for shows (or experiences) when I want to see one.

How do you determine a cash grab?