Why People Struggle to Put Their Phones Away During Concerts

Concerts are melting pots of music, excitement, and shared experiences. Yet, it’s common for attendees to be engrossed in their smartphones, sometimes to the detriment of the performance. What are the reasons behind this phenomenon, and how can we reclaim genuine, immersive concert experiences?

The Compulsion to Capture Moments

It’s natural to want to document memorable moments, especially when important events like attending a concert are part of personal experiences. Many concertgoers seek to capture images and videos to share on social media platforms. This desire to capture memories and share experiences on social media can be overwhelming, leading to phones becoming a constant presence.

Social Connection and FOMO

Concerts are inherently social events, and maintaining social connections during the performance can enhance enjoyment. Many attendees feel the need to stay connected by sharing live updates with friends and followers. This behavior is rooted in the fear of missing out (FOMO). Concerns about missing significant moments or updates from other attendees drive the urge to document events in real-time.

Entertainment and Distraction

During slower or less engaging parts of a concert, phones often become a source of entertainment. Checking messages, scrolling through social media, and engaging in other distractions can make the experience more enjoyable for some attendees.

Cultural Norms and Accessibility

In recent years, the use of phones at events has become more normalized. Many people feel that using devices during concerts is acceptable. Additionally, live streaming capabilities allow fans to share experiences and include those who couldn’t attend in the event.

The Impact on the Concert Experience

While these factors contribute to the allure of smartphones at concerts, they also detract from the immersive and communal experience. Inattentiveness and distractions caused by phone use can disrupt the audience's ability to connect with the performance. For instance, using the flash on a phone during a Harry Potter and the Cursed Child performance can be particularly irritating, as it can interfere with the focus on the characters and the storytelling. Furthermore, the LED flashlights on phones can be a distraction for the performers, similar to the cigarette lighters that were once used.

Cultural Shift and Reflection

Smartphones have reshaped our cultural attitudes towards individuality and validation. The necessity of recording every moment, not just for oneself but to validate life activities to an imagined audience, has become pervasive. This shift in mindset can be seen in the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child performance, where the presence of phones can detract from the immersive experience and the genuine moments of connection that were once valued.

The Transformation of Concert Culture

Smartphones have become an accepted part of the concert experience, leading many to feel that their absence would be unthinkable. However, for those who prefer a more traditional and immersive experience, phone use can be a source of annoyance. The cultural need for validation and the constant need to prove one's existence through digital means can be seen as problematic. Concert-goers should be encouraged to put their phones away and focus on the music, allowing the experience to be more authentic and memorable.

Conclusion

While the use of smartphones at concerts is a complex issue, it’s important to recognize the negative impact that excessive phone use can have on the overall experience. By encouraging a more traditional and immersive approach, concert-goers can ensure that the music, the performers, and the shared experience are the focal points of the event.