Going to concerts is an essential part of any music lover's life. My friends (and my wallet) are all very aware that I go to a ton of shows. But I always look forward to the experience, whether it's to hear my favorite song live, to see the people who have influenced my life, or to have fun with my best friends. All of that enjoyment can be ruined by other people who don't know how to act at concerts. Here are some tips for how to make sure you and your fellow concert-goers have an amazing time.
DON'TS:
- Don't talk.
- Music festivals tend to include smaller bands that aren't as well-known. But just because you don't know the lyrics doesn't mean you can talk over their words. Because yes, there are fans of those bands out there. And yes, we paid money to hear the music, not your pointless conversation about how excited you are for an unrelated concert.
- Don't clap when no one else is clapping.
- If you've ever gotten a scratch on a CD or a record, then you know the horrifying feeling of having a song skip during your favorite part. This is what solo clapping sounds like at a concert. I think the band can keep a beat on its own
- Don't get wasted.
- Seeing Modest Mouse at Sasquatch was a milestone in my music-spectating career. There I was, with two of my close friends at the best musical festival around, waiting to see such an influential band who had just put out a solid new album. Yet all my excitement was crushed when two girls shoved their way in front of me, too drunk to realize that the people around them had no room to breathe, too wasted to care if their arms were in my face, too stupid to realize the rude comments coming out of their mouths. I'm all for having a good time, but please, save your annoying drunk personality for your post-concert celebrations.
DOS: - Do look up opening acts.
- Don't be afraid to do a little research on them before you go! Opening bands can have a reputation of being boring, sub-par to the headliners. And while I've had my fair share of terrible openers, I've also enjoyed many others. Those rising artists really appreciate it when you know their lyrics and dance along to their music!
- Do hydrate.
- Summertime means going to more and more concerts, but it also means venues get hot, FAST. Even in colder months, hundreds of people in one room gets pretty warm. So hydrate—bring an empty bottle and refill it inside, or drink beforehand. I have unfortunately witnessed people getting sick or passing out from the heat, and it sucks having to drag yourself out of a crowded concert just because you didn't hydrate enough.
