AFL Reportedly Sought The Rolling Stones Before Nabbing Katy Perry For Grand Final Entertainment
The Rolling Stones reportedly wanted "$20 million for four songs."
The Rolling Stones (Source: Supplied)
On Saturday (28 September), Katy Perry headlined the AFL Grand Final pre-game entertainment with a string of classic hits and snuck in two songs from her new album, 143, performing tracks as a medley. However, the weekend almost looked (and sounded) very different.
According to Ross Stevenson, radio presenter on Melbourne’s 3AW, a “very senior source” informed him that the AFL initially sought British rockers The Rolling Stones, who reportedly asked for too much money.
“A very senior source at the AFL told me they did ask the Stones… $20 million for four songs,” Stevenson shared (via The Daily Mail). “That was the asking price, and the AFL just couldn't meet it.”
The Daily Mail reports that the AFL saved $15 million by choosing Katy Perry, who was reportedly paid $5 million for her medley of hits.
During her 20-minute AFL Grand Final pre-game headlining set, Perry performed a medley of tracks, including Roar, Teenage Dream, Dark Horse, and Firework.
From her new album, Perry worked in Lifetimes and Gorgeous (the latter featuring Kim Petras) and then stunned the crowd with a rendition of I Kissed A Girl with Tina Arena. The pair also allowed some time for Arena’s hit, Chains.
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Last year, former AFL boss Gillon McLachlan revealed that the AFL wanted Bruce Springsteen to headline the 2023 pre-game entertainment.
“I can rule him out – we offered him the kitchen sink, and he's not available,” McLachlan said. “So, we're working back from Bruce Springsteen this year.”
3AW’s Neil Mitchell responded, “Seriously? Did you offer a return or not?”
McLachlan replied, “He was certainly sounded out, and they offered him money we couldn't afford, and that still didn't tick the box.”
Last year’s AFL Grand Final headliners ended up being KISS. Crowded House were also in contention and reportedly pulled out of the gig a month before the big day.
KISS ended up performing three massive hits: I Was Born For Loving You, Shout It Out Loud and Rock And Roll All Night (And Party Every Day).
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