Seeing live music is something incredible that everyone should experience. Among many others, I have been going to concerts ever since I was a small child. Over the years, I have met quite a diverse group of individuals- some with which I have stayed in contact to this day. As a frequent attendee, I began noticing some patterns in the crowd. Whether it be for older fans, younger listeners, indie folks or classic rock, a consistency can be found within the audiences. Certain types of people appear and reappear, no matter the concert; therefore, I have compiled a list of the typical concert attendees I have run into over time:
1. The Hipster
This crowd member pops up frequently at any given event, but especially at an alternative related concert. He or she is probably wearing some trendy outfit you could never pull off in public, possibly under the influence, and a little bit too bored looking. They may or may not sing along, depending on their level of Hipster intensity.
2. The Photographer
Whether a photographer with a press pass or just a fan with a lot of phone storage, every concert has one. This person can be found right up at the barricade/side stage getting pictures for a blog or company, or right next to you, phone in hand. He or she might be a little too focused on updating the world with current events rather than just enjoying the music, but still looking like he/she is having a blast.
3. The Fanatic
You know this one. They are standing right next to you, probably annihilating your ear drum. Every five minutes, a loud sob may or may not escape their mouth, along with chants to the band members. Despite their harmless intent and admirable love for the music, you may want to save yourself the trouble and move away- your ears will thank you later.
4. The Boulder
I would like to make a small shout out to anyone under 5 foot 6 inches that attends concerts (like myself). Tall people tend to have better luck at concerts, like maybe not getting stuck behind the Boulder. Standing at a proud 8 feet tall (or so it seems), he or she is broad and blocking everything but the sky for people shorter than them. The best way to avoid this is to politely ask to jump in front of them (they typically take one glance down and make room for you- very kind people), or even better, ask to hop on his/her shoulders!
5. The Child
This attendee makes everyone a little nervous. He or she for sure looks younger than the age of 12 and very lost. There's no way they're at the event by themselves- at least you hope. If the Child shows any real concern, the best thing to do is find an employee of the venue and get him/her to a safer place- make sure he or she stays away from the mosh pits and illegal activities!
6. The Concert Mom
I plead guilty with this persona. This applies to anyone, actual parents or not. He or she is probably carrying a full book bag of extra sunscreen, Advil, water, and chargers. This audience member is frequently asking if you're doing alright whilst attempting to shield you from any harm (e.g crowd surfers, random creeps, etc.). May get slightly irritating, but you'll be thankful he or she is so prepared and caring.
7. The Halloweener
This, a personal favorite, is a crowd pleaser. He or she is dressed up in some full body, eye-catching costume, sometimes with complete masked identity. Some do it for the laughs and potential conversation starters, while others do it to catch the attention of the performers. If you have ever attended an alternative/rock concert in the Philadelphia area, you may recall seeing Spider-Man lurking about, jamming out and having a blast. Either way, the Halloweener is for sure surrounded by new friends he or she has made in the past twenty minutes.
DISCLAIMER: No offense is intended towards anyone, just some simple observations!
