Soundchecks are a lucrative new revenue stream for rock musicians.
Once a chance to dust off cobwebs and perform technical tests away from audiences, soundcheck access is now a top ticket item for cashed-up fans.
Previously a money can't buy experience, Paul McCartney fans can pay $2000 for a VIP package that includes access to watch the former Beatle soundcheck as well as a front row ticket for his New Zealand tour in December.
Queen are selling a backstage tour as part of a $1250 VIP package that also includes a seat literally on stage with the band during their 2018 tour with singer Adam Lambert.
Purchasers also get to take the seat home with them as a souvenir. Neither the McCartney or Queen packages including meeting the superstars.
Alice Cooper fans can pay around $1100 to meet the shock rocker during his upcoming New Zealand tour - the top VIP package also includes a front-row seat and a chance to get a photo inside the Alice Guillotine that slices his head off as part of the nightly theatrics.
Pop star Ariana Grande has an $800 meet and greet option on her September New Zealand tour.
So is it worth the price?
Fans enjoy the soundcheck access as bands can play new or more obscure songs they won't air in the actual concert over the traditional greatest hits set, and they can see their heroes in a more intimate environment than a full stadium or arena.
On their last tour, rockers Kiss did a VIP soundcheck package where they performed a soundcheck out of make-up and often took requests from fans.
And while McCartney's $2000 VIP package may seem expensive (even if he is the most successful songwriter of all time) it is not the most pricey we've seen.
In 2014 US singer Demi Lovato charged US $6000 (around NZ $8000) for a private meet and greet in a designated dressing room.
