Brazil’s World Cup stadiums to house concerts

After having spent US$4 billion on building and renovating 12 stadiums for the recent World Cup, Brazil is now looking for ways to put the grounds to good use.

There have been several suggestions on how the stadiums should be used. While some look to be used in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games, others could be transformed into housing for the poor and even a prison.

There is however, a more lucrative use for some of these stadiums, to host international music concerts.

Brazilian promoter Luis Oscar Niemeyer, who has toured Rihanna, Stone Temple Pilots, The Rolling Stones and Miley Cyrus spoke to Billboard, saying "Brazil now has a very good stadium infrastructure and this will have a positive impact on the live music business here."

He continued to cite the fact Elton John and Beyonce selling out shows in cities like Belo Horizonte and Brasilia served as evidence of a considerable audience just waiting for more international acts.

The South American nation also serves as a starting point for many artists travelling from the US and other territories.

Roberto Medina, Founder of Rock in Rio told Billboard, "Brazil is an important element in making tours viable throughout the Latin American region." He continued, "The construction of the new stadiums will [...] definitely promote an increase in attendance for big concerts."

With the Brazilian music market already valued at a reported AU$5.9 billion, Brazil’s reputation as a touring hotspot has the potential to increase and welcome more artists than ever before.