1. BUDDY
Always take someone who:
a) Knows the band
b) Doesn't know the band but you're certain they will be able to appreciate them, or
c) Is a good time no matter what.
If they do not fit one of the above, do not take them. Inviting the wrong person to a show can ruin a potentially unforgettable evening.
2. ALCOHOL
One drink is recommended before you get to the venue. This will loosen you up and get you excited from the moment you walk into the show. Do not drink too much before a show. This is a rookie mistake. You have the entire rest of the night to get drinks and if you start off too buzzed, you will become that annoying drunk person that is bumping into people while dancing. And if you are a true music fan, you do not want to drink too much because you will not remember the show.
Once you get to the show, I highly recommend beer as the drink of choice because:
- It's light
- It won't stain anything if it spills on yourself or someone else
- You can safely sip on it all night
- You will feel fine the next day and be able to enjoy that post-concert high without a headache.
This does not work with mixed drinks, folks. Your drink will finish quicker than you expected which means more trips to the bar, the liquor will sneak up on you and you will be wasted when the show is already over, and you will wake up with a wretched hangover and high bar tab.
3. LOCATION
If you are anything like me, you somehow always end up front stage center. When I see a band I love, the music physically draws me to the front. I can't sit back and watch from the back of the venue... I want to see the musicians sweat. That's why I want to see them live! So here's how:
Pockets
Do not ever push to the front or block people's view. That's rude. There are other fans there that are just as excited and you are no more entitled. When a song ends, the lights are down, and everyone is cheering, that's when you will see what I like to call "pockets."A pocket is when there is a small opening that usually one or two people can seamlessly scoot in without touching or interrupting your neighboring fans. Head bop or calmly dance your way into the pocket. If you continue to do this throughout the show, you will slowly end up where you want to be.
Height
When choosing your pockets, be aware of the height of the person you are popping in front of. I don't really have an issue with this as I'm 5'6, but I've been on the other side and it's really annoying when someone's noggin is suddenly in your line of vision. I don't think this is a deal breaker, but do be aware. Maybe when someone is on the shorter side, make sure it's a more spacious pocket so you don't stand directly in front of them. Leave some space so they can still see too.
May I also add that this is one of the reasons I am fond of my Love's height. He isn't too tall so he can navigate through crowds with me without bothering anyone. I've dated a few tall guys and that can get tricky...
Dance politely
When you and your concert buddy just moved in, you can't throw your arms around and be too physical from the start. That's annoying and obnoxious. You are the new girl now and it will take a minute for people to be happy to have you there. Show respect and gain tenure.
Show that you're a real fan
On the flip side, you should definitely dance once the space has welcomed you. A really fun neighbor just moved next door and they'll be happy to have you!
Be nice to your neighbors
When you finally find a spot that you would like to call home, make nice with your neighboring fans. Dance with them a little during a song. In between songs say hello, maybe do a cheers, or even a quick conversation about the band. Once at a Black Keys show (Madison Square Garden, 2012), this guy next to me and I did Black Keys trivia -- what year a song came out, what album it's from, guess what they are playing next, etc. It was so much fun!
Cell phones
The first thing I do with my phone when I get to a show is turn down the brightness. Turn it all the way down - you will still be able to see, trust me. This way, if you want to shoot a quick text or take video your phone won't be so bright as to pierce the eyes of your neighbors. Many people don't know this trick, but it makes a world of a difference. And speaking of video, please be aware of the appropriate time to do it. You cannot pull out your phone anytime and start taping.. if you pay attention you will know when it's the right time. Not when the people next to you are rocking out too hard and please, I mean PLEASE do not tape for too long. It's rude. I try to keep mine at thirty seconds, and at the most one minute.
Please note that with all of the above, you should always vibe people. You will know if it's someone that wants to have a conversation or wants you in their space. If you feel they aren't interested, stay there and keep to yourself or move on to the next pocket. For me, the people surrounding me at a show is very important so I would absolutely move on... or up :)
Enjoy your next show!
Sincerely,
Sahra
P.S. Photo was taken by yours truly at the Merriweather Post Pavilion in 2012. Made it to the front row, baby!
