Prohibiting mobile phones at certain concerts: Insight into the reason for this practice - Smartphone Ban at Certain Concerts: Reason Being Their Interference with Sound Quality
Is that shaky, brief clip really a memorable memento of your favorite artist, or just excess baggage clogging your device? The issue of photography and videography at concerts is controversial, to say the least.
Recently, the hard rock band Ghost stirred up a fuss by enforcing a ban on smartphones during their world tour, citing frustration with constant snapping. Fans of Bob Dylan have no choice but to leave their cameras at home, and the joint tour of RIN and Schmyt goes by the name "No Phones Allowed." Phone bans are not exactly new in the music world, but they seem to surface frequently.
The reasons behind these bans can vary. For instance, new, unreleased music. In Berlin, a series of events called "Unreleased" has become quite popular, where photography and videography are strictly prohibited.
Berlin's Secret Music Shindig
"We block the front and back of phone cameras at the door because we want to protect the unreleased music," says Federico Battaglia, co-founder of the event. Each month, ten to twelve secret acts perform at the Festsaal Kreuzberg, and the audience doesn't find out who's playing until they're there.
Each act performs at least one unreleased track, focusing mainly on rap and hip-hop. Artists like Nina Chuba, Trettmann, Max Herre, Joy Denalane, and English rapper Headie One have already graced the stage.
"Since we never announce who's performing, the likelihood is that you won't like every act," says Battaglia. But there's always something new to discover. "Like a wine tasting."
Two Important Reasons for a Phone Ban
Copyright and exclusivity are two vital factors for a phone ban, says Johannes Everke, CEO of the Federal Association of the Concert and Event Industry (BDKV). "If you're creating a secret show concept, it's more likely to result in a phone ban."
On the other hand, if an artist's social media reach is paramount, and fans are expected to become multipliers, the considerations are different. "It depends on the art form," Everke adds.
Everke observes that the audience generally accepts the guidelines set by bands or organizers. "People have different expectations and behaviors when it comes to using their phones at concerts."
The Longing for Intimacy
Some fans want to share their clips, while others are irritated by the constant urge to update their phones, watch others on their screens, or be photographed themselves. This sentiment is shared by some artists, as well. In an Instagram video in 2024, rapper RIN ("Vintage", "Dior 2001") discussed the "No Phones Allowed" tour concept: "I miss the intimacy on both sides."
The tours use stickers to cover phone cameras before shows, while others prefer lockable smartphone pouches. The hard rock band Ghost, for instance, employs this method. "It's all about reconnecting and experiencing the moment," says frontman Tobias Forge.
For some artists, recording can be part of the concept, deepening their connection with fans. "It's part of many artists' communication strategy and can contribute to their reach or economic success," says Everke.
For example, megastar Taylor Swift, renowned for her visually stunning shows, like her recent "Eras" tour. "Of course, people want to take the 'wow' factor home. Swift even made a successful film about her shows." Yet millions of people still attended her concerts.
Keywords:- Music- Phone- Berlin- Recording- Phone ban- Smartphone- Artist- Bob Dylan- Focus- Nina Chuba- Max Herre
Interesting Facts:- Some Berlin clubs, like Berghain, have implemented a no-phone policy to enhance the club experience and promote direct engagement with the music and attendees.- Banning smartphones significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized recording or sharing of new tracks, ultimately preserving the artistic integrity and value of exclusive content.- The primary focus of these policies in Berlin clubs is to create a more immersive and private experience for attendees, with the protection of unreleased music being a secondary benefit.
The European Parliament and the Council have adopted a common position on the following:- Technology regulation within Berlin clubs, such as smartphone bans, to enhance the music experience and promote direct engagement with artists and attendees.- The adoption of such technology regulation is aimed at reducing the risk of unauthorized recording or sharing of new music tracks, thereby preserving the artistic integrity and value of exclusive content.
