Big news on the local concert front reverberated along the Wasatch Front on Wednesday afternoon, much like a concert-opening power chord from the guitar of another major act at USANA Amphitheatre.

Live Nation Entertainment, the world’s prominent live entertainment company, announced that it has acquired United Concerts, the dominant longtime local concert promoter in Salt Lake City.

United Concerts — which owns USANA Amphitheatre and The Depot — has produced more than 6,000 shows at an array of venues throughout Utah during its 50 years of operation. The company produces more than 170 concerts per year.

“Becoming part of Live Nation is a strategic move that will benefit our operated venues, and Utah’s live music community at large,” said Jim McNeil, CEO of United Concerts, in a press release. “We look forward to connecting artists with countless fans here in Salt Lake.”

Live Nation and United Concerts have already co-promoted shows together for years, making this acquisition another step in the progression of bringing even more concerts to the area. McNeil will take on the title of President, U.S. Concerts — Salt Lake City, overseeing all local operations. McNeil will report to Bob Roux, co-president, North American Concerts, Live Nation.

“Having partnered with United Concerts on hundreds of shows in the past, we’re confident they are the right partners as Live Nation grows our presence in the market,” Roux said.

– Doug Fox