Modern humans have been around for roughly 300,000 years, and we are now a far cry from our ancestors who inhabited caves and ran around yelling, “ooga booga” (lore accurate). However, one thing has remained constant: our love for music. From chanting around fires and playing instruments made of bone, to deafening electric guitar riffs and elaborate strobe lights, music performances have evolved an incredible amount over the years.
In this article, my #1 concert-going buddy, Jenna, and I will talk about some things we’ve learned over our years of attending live music events. These tips will be a great starting point to make your next show an incredible memory.
Our credentials: we have been to seven concerts together in the last year and have another coming up on September 25th!
The Essentials
- Earplugs.They are truly game changers. We use ones by Loop, but you can use whatever you have handy, including headphones or even small wads of tissue (thanks, Dad).
- A portable charger. I don’t know about you, but my phone’s battery life is absolutely horrendous, and I’d hate to commute home after a show with a dead phone.
- A valid state ID. This is necessary because the majority of venues will want to verify your age. Do not risk only taking a school ID – you may not be let in! Also, keep in mind that venues have become very good at sniffing out fake IDs… take from that what you will.
- The tickets, of course.
- A small purse. Some venues may not let you in with bigger bags (and you’re gonna want some money to grab merch after the show!)
- Mini deodorant. You DO NOT want to be the person in the pit that reeks. You will get a lovely nickname.
Choose your outfit carefully!
- The temperature of indoor venues can vary quite a bit. They are intentionally kept relatively cold to keep equipment (and people!) from overheating. Also, keep in mind that a packed venue can get surprisingly hot. Bring or wear layers when possible.
- If you’re going to an outdoor venue, the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the spring and summer. (So many thunderstorms.)
- Most, but not all, venues have coat checks. Check their policy, especially because they may ask you to pay to check something in. Even so, coat check is ALWAYS worth it! Not only is keeping a coat on you annoying, but it is also inconsiderate to your neighbors if it’s a tight venue.
Be aware of your surroundings
- Look out for flying objects and people, or else you may be kicked in the head by a stage diver! (Ask me how I know this…) Also, you are at the front, be prepared to catch stage divers. This is a risk you must accept if you are at the barricade; if you don’t catch a stage diver, they can get seriously injured (we have seen people leave on stretchers). So, hands up, elbows bent and stay ready at all times! If this is not your vibe, don’t worry! You can chill closer to the sides.
- Keep an eye on your group and be aware of those around you. Concerts can be very overwhelming – some people may faint or have seizures. It doesn’t happen often, but it’s important to stay vigilant.
- If you feel faint, the bar will give you free water. Passing out at a concert is the last thing you want to happen, and the ambulance ride will be far more expensive than a cold drink!
- Don’t be afraid to advocate. Say something to a security guard or other staff member if you feel unsafe, witness something concerning, or see someone who needs help. One of your responsibilities as an attendee is to help make sure that everyone stays safe!
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Enjoying live music is one of our favorite things in the world. We hope that after reading this, you’ll feel more comfortable about going to a show. New York City truly has one of the best music scenes in the world: it offers shows at every price point and every genre under the sun. We hope that you’ll be able to enjoy it as much as we do – have fun and stay safe!
Fun Fact: One Direction was my first concert!