Concert Ettiquette
Nov 17, 2009 by Dave
I’ve seen well over a hundred bands in my short time on Earth and in that time I’ve seen some things at shows that piss me off. Here are a few guidelines to follow when going to a show.
Don’t wear a band shirt for the band you’ve come to see. This is a pretty common rule and it just makes sense. I’ve heard people argue this rule and say it’s like going to a sporting event and that’s how you support the band. You’re supporting the band by being there and you can support them even more by buying a shirt at the show.
Don’t yell out song requests. Seriously you’re not cool when you yell out “Free Bird”.
Don’t make out. Unless it’s with me or you’re two hot chicks. But seriously you’re there to watch a band that you should, in theory, like or love; you can make out after the show.
No texting or phone calls. You paid good money to see the band, enjoy it. Work can wait if it’s an emergency step out for your phone call. The guy next to you doesn’t want you screaming in his ear anyway.
No tech. I assure you that your Twitter/Facebook update of how awesome the show is will be just as overlooked after the show.
Participate. When the band asks for it give it to ‘em. Don’t be afraid to clap or sing.
No sitting down. I hate when I’m really excited to see a show and I’m surround with the “old crowd” that wants to sit. I understand certain bands bring a certain crowd, but not the ones I go to. And if you really need to sit down, don’t bitch about the people standing.
Tall guys stand still. At 6’4″ I’m considered tall but I always try to be, at least, aware of who is standing behind me and if they are reasonably shorter than I am I try to give them the ability to see. Step to the side, let them in front or just stand still so they can get a positioned to see the show. They may be half as tall but they still had to pay full price.
Don’t be “that guy”. Sure everyone want a drink or two or ten, especially at a concert, but know your limits and don’t be the guy falling all over the place and/or puking on people.
Don’t be a douche. This is a big pet peeve of my and supersedes all the other rules listed. I hate it when you’re the guy that got to the show 2 hours before the opening act and secured a great place right next to the stage and half way through the main act some douches, that just showed up, come busting their way to the front and position themselves right in front of you. It’s uncalled for; if you’re going to be late sit in the back. That’s a suitable punishment.
If you disagree or have some more peeves let’s discuss them in the comments section.
Later,
Dave
Posted in Dave's More Rockin'
As many concerts as I’ve been to with you, I’m surprised you didn’t put in something along the lines of “Don’t sing the songs with the band. They wrote it, they sing it better than you, shut up.”