BlackBerry is serious about its music initiatives, a plan that includes mobile, online and offline components. Just recently, BlackBerry became a marquee sponsor of the upcoming U2 "360-Degree" mega-tour, one that starts in Barcelona on June 30th. The sponsorship could be construed as a snub to Apple, given previous tie-ins that include a U2-branded iPod and featured iPod+iTunes commercials. That is perhaps a bit of a stretch, especially considering that Bono-backed Elevation Partners has been a serious Palm supporter.
The upcoming tour, produced by Live Nation Global Touring, will also visit Milan, Gothenburg, Amsterdam, Paris, Nice, Dublin, Chorzow, Berlin, Gelsenkirchen, London, Sheffield and Glasgow before crossing the Atlantic. The North American leg begins September 12th in Chicago.
The "360-Degree" refers to a set design that offers unobstructed views to the audience. That approach relies on a rotating stage and jumbotrons, according to a schematic at 360.u2.com. "U2 has always been at their best when surrounded by their audience, this staging takes a giant leap forward," said longtime band manager Paul McGuinness.
In terms of pricing, Live Nation indicated that 85 percent of tickets will be offered for under $95, and at least 10,000 floor seats will be in the $30s. Opening acts include Glasvegas, Elbow, Kaiser Chiefs, Snow Patrol and Black Eyed Peas, and others will be named later. BlackBerry is owned by Research In Motion (RIM).
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