The music world is mourning the loss of Jonathan Mayers, a visionary concert promoter and co-founder of the iconic Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, who passed away at 51 just days before the 2025 festival. Mayers’ innovative spirit shaped modern music festivals and left an indelible mark on live entertainment. This blog post celebrates his remarkable career, from launching Bonnaroo to creating immersive fan experiences, and reflects on his lasting impact. Join us as we honor his contributions and explore what made him a true pioneer.
Who Was Jonathan Mayers?
Born in New York and a 1995 graduate of Tulane University, Jonathan Mayers discovered his passion for music promotion in New Orleans. Working at the legendary Tipitina’s and the city’s Jazz Fest, he honed his skills in live events. In 1996, Mayers co-founded Superfly Entertainment with partners Rick Farman, Richard Goodstone, and Kerry Black, setting the stage for a transformative career in the music industry.
The Birth of Bonnaroo
In 2002, Mayers and his Superfly team, alongside collaborators like Ashley Capps of AC Entertainment and Coran Capshaw of Red Light Management, launched Bonnaroo in Manchester, Tennessee. Held on a 700-acre farm an hour from Nashville, the festival sold out its debut with headliners like Phish’s Trey Anastasio and the Grateful Dead’s Phil Lesh. Bonnaroo’s eclectic mix of jam bands, pop, and rock redefined the festival experience, drawing over 70,000 attendees annually and inspiring countless events nationwide. Learn more about Bonnaroo’s history at Bonnaroo’s official site.
Expanding the Festival Landscape
Mayers’ vision extended beyond Bonnaroo. His contributions to the festival scene included:
- Outside Lands: In 2008, Mayers partnered with Another Planet Entertainment to create this San Francisco festival in Golden Gate Park, featuring artists like Radiohead and Paul McCartney.
- Vegoose: Launched in 2005 in Las Vegas, this festival attracted 37,000 visitors over three seasons.
- Clusterfest: In 2017, Mayers collaborated with Viacom and Comedy Central for this San Francisco comedy festival, showcasing stars like Kevin Hart and Amy Schumer.
These events cemented Mayers’ reputation as a trailblazer, blending music, comedy, and culture in innovative ways. For insights into modern festivals, check Billboard.
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Immersive Fan Experiences
Mayers didn’t stop at festivals. He pioneered immersive fan experiences by recreating sets from beloved TV shows like Friends, Seinfeld, and The Office. These pop-up events in cities like New York and Boston allowed fans to step into their favorite shows, drawing hundreds of thousands. His ability to merge music and media showcased his creative genius, as noted by industry peers in The Hollywood Reporter.
Challenges and New Ventures
In 2021, Mayers parted ways with Superfly amid disputes, leading to a 2022 lawsuit against his former partners for misrepresentation and breach of contract, which was dismissed in 2023. Undeterred, he turned his focus to Core City Detroit, a project aimed at revitalizing the city through a music campus and cultural hub. This initiative reflected his commitment to community and innovation, as detailed by Los Angeles Times.
Tributes to a Visionary
Following Mayers’ passing, tributes poured in. Superfly Entertainment called him a “cherished part of our story,” praising his wit and infectious smile. Peter Shapiro of Dayglo Presents told Billboard, “Modern-day festivals are all in some way built off his vision.” Bonnaroo organizers announced plans to plant a tree in his honor at the festival site, a fitting tribute to his legacy. The 2025 festival, running June 12-15 with headliners like Tyler, The Creator and Olivia Rodrigo, will carry forward his spirit.
Why Jonathan Mayers’ Legacy Matters
Mayers’ work reshaped how we experience live music and entertainment. His festivals weren’t just events—they were cultural touchstones that brought people together. Here’s why his contributions endure:
- Innovation: He pushed boundaries with diverse lineups and immersive experiences.
- Community: His events fostered connection among fans and artists.
- Influence: Bonnaroo and Outside Lands set the standard for modern festivals.
As Bonnaroo 2025 approaches, fans will celebrate Mayers’ vision on the farm he helped create.
Jonathan Mayers’ untimely death at 51 is a profound loss, but his legacy lives on through Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, and the countless fans he inspired. His creativity, courage, and passion for music transformed the festival landscape and brought joy to millions. As we reflect on his contributions, let’s honor his memory by celebrating the music and community he championed. Share your favorite Bonnaroo memories in the comments, and join us in remembering a true visionary.
