What's behind sky-high concert ticket prices?

Whether it's Justin Bieber or the Rolling Stones that fans want to see in concert, they'll likely be paying dearly.

"At first, we only spent $350. Then, the next time, we spent $450," 16-year-oldBieber fanCara Corbett and her best friend Tyra Bright told CBC News.

"This year, it was like $650 and I was like 'I'm done ... I'm not spending any more.'"

Back in the 1970s, a ticket toa Rolling Stones concert in Torontocost around $8. Tickets forthe band's upcoming Toronto stops on its 50th annversary tourstart at $166.50, with the priciest spots listed for upwards of $600 a seat.

One explanation is that established acts like the Stones orFleetwood Macsimply weren't as popularor considered iconic in decades past and couldn't command as high a premium. There are acts that now rely on touring as their main source of revenue.

Another problem is that many groups from sponsors toresellers and brokersget access to tickets before the general public.

However, according to ticket sales giant Ticketmaster, a major factor is the massive and elaborate shows that make up today's typical concert experience.

"[In the past, there were no] massive video screens and production elements," said Ticketmaster Canada executive Patti-Anne Tarlton. "Whereas you look at today: [they're] massive, massive live entertainment spectacles, really."

Aaron Saltzman reports.