The outbreak of COVID-19 precipitated the division of communities all across the globe. Not only were individuals dying at an exponential rate, but even those who were physically healthy were forced to isolate and distance themselves from those they loved. People were not allowed to travel to see their families, individuals with preexisting health conditions feared going out in public, schools were shut down, and controversy over the nature of the virus ensued political polarization. This disconnect within society degraded mental health for many. During the pandemic 4 in 10 U.S. adults reported having symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder–about a 30% increase from the 1 in 10 statistic conducted in June 2019.
One consequence of the virus, that I did not anticipate to affect me as much as it did, was the cancellation of concerts. Before the outbreak, I had just attended my 30th concert a month before. I found a love for live music during my late middle school years. Despite all my external and internal conflicts at the time, knowing that I had a concert coming up would help motivate me to persevere. Not only that, but every time I went to a concert I would be in the happiest mindset. When you’re at a live concert, your brain releases copious amounts of endorphins that diminish pain as well as releasing dopamine and serotonin to help your relaxation and mood. Research conducted at Goldsmiths University in London even showed that live music induces more improvements in mood and well-being than yoga or dog walking.
As you are dancing to the music with everyone around you, not only are you getting good exercise, but you are connecting deeply with humanity. It is a beautiful moment when you sing a song you love at the top of your lungs, and you look around you and see someone doing the exact same thing. You make eye contact, smile, and keep dancing. Concerts have the ability to make a group of strangers best friends for one night. The pandemic brought stress and isolation, and concerts are pivotal to regrow human connection and celebration.
Even though COVID-19 is not over, the vaccine provides opportunities for live music once again. When I went to Music Midtown in the third weekend of September 2021, that was the happiest I had been in the past two years. Not only did I hear a variety of artists I loved (Miley Cyrus was 5 feet away from me–still in shock), but the best part of the whole experience was seeing the power of live music again. Many people I talked to stated that it was their first concert since the pandemic, and the energy and excitement in the air was palpable. Everyone was dressed up, taking pictures, singing and dancing, and overall just enjoying living rather than merely existing.
If you feel safe, the next time your favorite artist goes on tour treat yourself to a concert ticket. Save up some cash and bring one or a few of your best friends along for the ride. Wear something you feel confident in, sing and dance your heart out, buy one of those ridiculously overpriced t-shirts if you’re feeling extravagant, and enjoy being in the moment. Music can change the world because it can change people.