Whether you’re a fan of country or rap or rock, there is one common passion that most music junkies share: concerts. There’s nothing quite like buying a ticket to one of your favorite artists' show and then finally seeing them live and in the flesh. Like, what? They're an actual real-life human being?
I’ve been to a fair share of concerts in my day. I have experienced these stages of going to a concert many times. Keep in mind that these stages may be geared more toward obsessive fan girls, as this is heavily influenced by my Bieber and One Direction phase from a few years ago. That being said, I’m sure you can relate to each of these stages in some way:
1. The Prep – You finally bought your ticket and marked your calendar! If you purchased far in advance, you may have a lot of down time during this stage. However, as the day of the concert gets closer, it’s time for you to crack down on your concert preparation. What does this preparation entail, you ask? This typically includes listening to the artist’s music 24/7. You may even look into the opening acts to ensure that you make the most out of this concert. More experienced (or obsessed) concert-goers will look up the setlist and ensure they know all the words to each song. They may also make sure they know the names and faces of each band and crew member to increase their likelihood of meeting the artist.
2. The Roadtrip – Whether the drive to the venue takes 10 minutes or an entire day, every concert requires some time in the car. Ideally, this time is filled with blasting the artist’s music. For the more stalker-esque fans, this time may also be filled with brainstorming all the possibilities for the night. How can you catch your favorite band member’s attention from the audience? Where do you think they will head after the show? There is also the dreaded food and bathroom stops that only put more time between you and your favorite artist. As the venue draws nearer, the excitement builds. The idea of this concert is becoming a reality.
3. The Wait – This is the awkward period before the show actually starts. You may strategically try to figure out how to get the best view. You might try to start a conversation with the fan beside you. If you’re like me, you worry about whether or not it’s worth it to get a drink or go to the bathroom before the show starts. Regardless of what you do during this stage, it is no doubt filled with excitement and anticipation for the awesomeness that will soon occur on stage.
4. The Show – Ah, yes, this is the peak of our concert experience. Go ahead and feel free to laugh or cry. I typically do both as a result of utter joy, because live music is such a beautiful thing. You may jam out or gaze on in silent awe. Take a few pictures, but don’t let your camera take too much of the experience away from you. It’ll be over before you know it.
5. The Stalking – Oh look, the show is over before you know it. This is an optional stage, typically reserved for the seriously obsessed fans. But don’t worry, there’s no shame in wanting to meet super cool and talented artists. This stage could really take you anywhere—just off the stage, by the tour bus, at the merch stand, in a fast-food restaurant, or even at a hotel. Trust me, I saw some creepy things as a One Direction fangirl. However, this dedication pays off in the end. There’s nothing quite like engaging in quality conversation with your favorite artist. Just try not to end up in jail or anything.
6. The PCD – Post-concert depression. This stage is also geared more toward the most dedicated and enamored fans. I’m currently in this stage after seeing Hippo Campus play at the Deep Roots festival in Milledgeville. Ugh, was this concert even real? You begin to miss the heck out of the artist. You might even wrack your brain with all of the things you could have done to make your concert experience better. Well, stop right there. I have a solution for you. Just buy a ticket to another concert. That’s what I did, and now I can look forward to a Young the Giant concert later this week.
The cycle must go on.
