Notably, most of the bitching is being done by a minority, the GA line elitists who feel they have have some special 'hardcore fan' right to be in front of U2 for all 20 of the shows they went to this tour
This statement in itself is such a trite generalization. Firstly, how many hardcore fans (20+ shows) are at each show? Barely any. And secondly, the majority of people I have spoken to for the four GA lines that I have been in all unanimously oppose the lottery system. I'm not professing to have conducted an official survey of all U2 fans, but I can say the logic of first-come-first-serve is much more congruent than the lottery system. But my point is, lots of people bitch about the lottery, whether they go to one show or thirty.
Does anyone believe in good vibrations and positivity? I do. I never complained about the u2.com membership. I told people to relax about the pre-sale. I didn't cut lines, harass people who had a friend showing up a bit later. Tried to be a good linemate whenever my circumstances allowed me to line up. When I couldnt line up because of working, stood whereever felt comfortable on the floor and had an amazing time. Gave my spot up to girls who couldnt see around me. The few times I had a sign, tried to keep it small and not block others view for more than a very few seconds per show. Let many others get at the band to the point of even being pushed out of my own chance when we met the band outside venues (didnt even get a single autograph or picture until Saturday, even tho I've met them plenty) Gave away tickets to complete strangers who had no way else to get in. Didnt complain about setlists. Tried to help people with rides, rooms, made a hell of alot of friends. Went on sheer blind faith in some people. This tour worked out wonderfully for me.
Okay, I applaud your optimism, but surely recognize that everbody is not going to always be this positive, especially when an excess of money is involved. When I paid $40 for my u2.com membership, I expected presale tickets. And during that initial debacle, I can say I was furious. At the time, I had paid $40 (and been charged) yet I recieved no letter in the mail and didn't get the presale email until hours before the sale. It was terribly organized and felt like all the fans were being given the middle finger.I thought u2.com cheated the fans in the initial presale and was quite resentful. Now, my sentiments towards u2.com improved once they rectified the situation for the 3rd presale (which was conducted very well).
As I said, people have expectations, especially when money is involved. We all pay a good amount of money for these tickets, and the disappointment comes when expectations aren't met. (I'm not speaking personally, the four shows I saw were phenomenal).
I would be lying if I said I agreed with the lottery system. I think it's a silly way of doing things. While I understand why some people may like the system, I truly do not
comprehend how people believe it is a more "fair" system than first-come-first-serve.
I do however,
understand the argument, "lottery is in effect, suck it up". And unfortunately, it feels like the backbone of the system.
Mike