Over the years, concerts have created a way for me to personally connect with the music I have grown to love. With one single, tangible piece of paper, I am granted access to a controlled atmosphere where I get to experience the songs I have belted my heart out to (normally in the safety of my room). It’s as if shows invoke a sense of belonging in me, making me feel as if I am part of something bigger. They conjure these specific emotions that make me want to live in the moment and take it all in. I believe that physical, social, and emotional factors are the reason why I care so deeply about concerts and how they affect my day to day life.

Once walking into the venue, the energy is unmistakably evident. People are everywhere buzzing with excitement, waiting for the band to come on. This positive energy is what sets the tone for the show, so I always thrive off of it. What makes the experience more surreal as well is the close-knit atmosphere that comes along with watching an artist. If the show is general admission, then it is extremely likely that I will be having my body pressed against strangers for an extended period of time. It is interesting though because despite feeling hot and claustrophobic, everyone is suffering through the same things I am. It’s like everybody is in this together. I love this kind of culture because all five of my senses will be used within the night. My ears will ring from the noise, and stomach will rumble from the bass. My hands will swing back and forth as the band sings their softest song, and my lungs will give out from screaming lyrics back to the artist. I can’t forget about the smell as well, though I would prefer to not remember some of the funky scents I have come across throughout the years (deodorant is vital and should NOT be forgotten). All in all, the physical experience plays a key role in understanding concert culture.

Another thing I’ve discovered is that I make lifelong friends through shows. It’s interesting because everyone expects to congregate into a place and just hear some songs and leave. But it’s more than that. I once camped out in line for three days for a show, so it was assured that I would befriend those around me. It was then I discovered how everyone has such different social and cultural backgrounds, but all come together to listen to music that means the world to them. Today, the world is torn apart by religion and politics, forcing us to go against each other and argue over anything and everything. This is why I love concerts, because all of that is forgotten. Differences are put aside for the night and acceptance is expressed throughout the entire concert experience. I don’t know why, but there’s something poetic to me about this and how they can bring the most diverse kinds of people together into one room.

Emotionally, going to see a band live means the world to me. This means that I am willing to give myself up for three hours, wear my heart on my sleeve and break through my public façade in order to show that I am, indeed, vulnerable. Even if it is for just one night. Concerts are a safe haven where I go to show and express mutual love. I think it’s beautiful how I can look around the room in the middle of a performance and witness a crowd caught up in the moment. It’s amazing seeing how music does that to people, and all it takes is a few catchy melodies and some clever lyrics. Shows give me the opportunity to forget about all my responsibilities for a few hours and let me live in the moment, disconnecting myself from the outside world. Everyone has a way to let out steam, and concerts are the way I do it.

I have found who I am and what I believe in through festivals and concerts. Whether it is a Christian artist or an alternative band, I always find a way to connect with the music. Looking past the long lines, overpriced merchandise and sweaty bodies, the ringing in my ears will always be worth it in the end.