Headliner Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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headliner

[หˆhษ›dหŒlaษชnษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

show business

A headliner is the main performer in a show, concert, or similar event who is expected to attract the largest audience. Often placed at the top of the bill, headliners are typically well-known artists whose names draw in crowds. Their performance usually concludes the event, making them the focal point of the entertainment. The role of a headliner carries significant prestige and can greatly influence the success of the event.

Synonyms

main act, star attraction, top-billed.

Examples of usage

  • The headliner for the music festival this year is a Grammy-winning artist.
  • Local bands often open for the headliner at larger concerts.
  • She was thrilled to be the headliner at the annual charity gala.
  • The event's ticket sales soared once the headliner was announced.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In music festivals, headliners are the biggest names, drawing crowds and often performing last, creating anticipation.
  • Major film festivals often designate certain films as headliners, signifying them as the standout films of the event.
  • Television shows may have headliners in the cast, usually the most famous actors who attract viewers.

Business

  • In advertising, a 'headliner' might refer to the most prominent promotional message or offer that captures attention.
  • Events and conferences often feature headliners as keynote speakers, emphasizing their importance in drawing attendees.
  • Companies may use well-known figures as headliners for their product launches, aiming to leverage their fame for greater impact.

Literature

  • In publishing, a headliner might also refer to the main story in a magazine or the title on the front cover that attracts readers.
  • Some authors gain fame as headliners at literary festivals, drawing attention for their bestselling books.
  • Magazines often create headlines that are catchy to draw in readers, much like a performer attracts an audience.

Origin of 'headliner'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'headliner' comes from 'head', meaning the top or most important part, and 'liner', which relates to something that lines up or is arranged.
  • It was first used in the early 20th century to describe the top acts in vaudeville or theatrical performances.
  • In journalism, it refers to the main title of an article, highlighting whatโ€™s most newsworthy.

The term 'headliner' originated in the 19th century, initially referring to the main title or headline placed at the top of a newspaper article. The usage evolved with the growth of vaudeville and theater, where it came to denote the primary performer in a live entertainment setting. The importance of headliners escalated with the rise of popular music and large-scale concerts in the mid-20th century. In essence, a headliner has always been synonymous with drawing power in show business, and their presence often dictates audience turnout and sales. As the entertainment industry evolved, so did the recognition and financial compensation for headlining acts, making them central figures in promotional strategies. Today, headliners are pivotal in various entertainment forms, including festivals, theatrical performances, and other gatherings, where they serve not only as performers but also as icons of cultural significance.