Billboard Acquires Amplify Media
Amplify Media was created by Brooks and his wife Kristen Bilanko in 2014. Brooks has a long career covering the music business and previously held positions at Pollstar, Venues Todayand the Los Angeles Times. “I started Amplify because I wanted to tell stories about the live music business in a new and exciting way,” said Brooks. “We built an amazing audience, and now, with this sale, Amplify and Billboard will come together to create the most impactful platform in touring and live entertainment.”
“We are extremely excited to acquire Amplify,” said Ross Scarano, Billboard‘s Vice President of Content. “Dave Brooks is a true entrepreneur who knows the live entertainment world inside out and we are thrilled to be able to provide Billboard’s readers with more in-depth coverage of the touring industry.” Brooks will also be programming the recently rebranded Billboard Live Music Summit & Awards (formerly the Billboard Touring Conference & Awards) on November 13 & 14 at the Montage in Beverly Hills.