Are live concerts worth the hype?
Maroon 5’s first-ever concert in India got me thinking…
In a world where Netflix, YouTube and Instagram occupy so much of our mindspace, attending live events seemed to have become a relic of the past. Why leave the comfort of our homes when the entire concert would be available on our TV or smartphone? We could easily watch a live performance online without having to stand in endless queues, right?
I found out: there’s more that a live concert has to offer.
In recent times, concert tourism has become a very real thing. I have heard of so many friends and relatives travelling to other neighbouring areas, different cities or even a whole different country to catch a glimpse of their favourite artists. Expenses are not an issue, as it’s all about the experience. Recently, tickets for so many concerts being held across India were getting sold out within minutes or seconds, with memes and frustrations flooding and resonating across social media.
I too attended a concert of the popular American band Maroon 5. As a childhood favourite, I was sure that I wanted to attend it. This was their first time and first concert in India ever!
Even though it was on a weekday, and even though the tickets were quite costly — I was definitely not going to miss it.
Even though I had to hop on a 2-hour flight and go to another city, it was totally worth it. Here’s why.
The Pros
Believe it or not, the experience of attending a live concert is a whole new kind of fun! It’s a good opportunity to spend time away from your devices and immerse yourself wholeheartedly into the tunes of your favourite band. You get dressed in your cool outfits, clean up all nice, eat some good food, grab some drinks and make some memories (and video content to enhance your coolness quotient).
The experience of humming your favourite songs on your commute to work is taken to a whole new level. At the concert, it’s not just you but thousands and thousands of other fans who are singing along with you; as well as the band’s singer, filling in at various points to the tunes you know so well. You can dance, you can jive, and have the time of your life.
It’s like you’re in a cult. Music as a universal language finally makes sense.
Also, the amazing interactions that the band or singer has with the audience make you resonate a lot. For instance, Maroon 5’s lead singer Adam Levine actually hugged a fan on stage and dedicated his popular song ‘She Will Be Loved’ for her, much to her delight. It brought tears to everyone’s eyes, and nobody had even cut onions around us!
Another pro is that as you croon to the melodies, you realise that the live version of the song is actually so different from the original! And these ephemeral moments with the song variations are there exclusively for the listeners at the concert. To watch such incredible talent in action is truly awe-inspiring.
If you attend, I guarantee you will truly cherish these incredible musical moments for a long time to come. If you happen miss it — there’s no coming back.
The Cons
A lot of people complain of too many people at concerts or overcrowding— which is partially true. Queuing up, getting entry and finding a good spot to sit or stand without being pushed around is important. You need to be a bit smart and avoid the crowd, either by exiting early before the concert officially ends, or getting access to the premium lounges. Steering clear of the rush can be a bit of a hassle.
A significant disadvantage, specifically for those attending the concert with a group or a plus one, is the situation when you don’t know the band or singer so well and are just tagging along. You would definitely struggle to fit in or grasp the lyrics which everyone around you is singing so skilfully. You may question spending a lot of money just to fit in with the crowd around you.
Which brings me to the next con — the amount of money you have to spend. Flying to another city and taking on food, lodging, travelling expenses apart from the concert tickets may burn a hole in your pocket.
Final Verdict:
Although it may be an expensive affair, attending a live concert is totally worth it. Even if it is just a one-time experience that you tick off your bucket list, I’m sure you’ll relish it for a while longer than you anticipated.
Thinking of booking my next concert tickets for Ed Sheeran. Should I? Feel free to write to me in the comments.
