The Future Of Live Music
Despite my music career, I've not been a fan of attending large live concerts as an audience member, likely due to my introverted nature. When I do attend, it's usually out of respect for the music and performer, but the chaos often irritates me.
But I realise I've overlooked an important aspect of these concerts: the energy and collective appreciation. For many, it's about singing, dancing, and sharing the joy and nostalgia that music brings.
Current events are quite troubling. There are major changes in power, climate disasters, and new social issues from technology and social media. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or emotionally numb from constant negativity. Our sense of community is fading. Humans are social beings (probably something being exploited in the digital world) and gathering together and sharing experiences, like concerts, can be beneficial for our mental health.
Billy Joel greatly influenced my upbringing. His music defined my early years, and listening to his songs takes me back to special moments. Recently, his 100th performance at Madison Square Garden aired on TV, showcasing a packed stadium of happy fans dancing and singing to his hits from the past 50 years. It was uplifting to see that. Despite his age, he still performs well. His band and crew were impressive too.
This was the first live performance I’ve watched in a long time. Although it was a polished show, it reminded me why I love music. While musical quality and skill is important, being together and experiencing live music feeds the spirits of both performers and audiences.
I began as a musician and performer, enjoying the rush of endorphins after most shows. The applause impacts the performer more than many understand. When I shifted to music production, I stopped feeling that rush. I sometimes attended performances featuring my work, partly to check if I was satisfied with the outcome and partly to relive that feeling through another artist.
Live music greatly improves our well-being. While the performer's skill and the quality of the music matter, they are arguably less important than the experience of the event itself.
Even though live musicians may face tough times ahead, I hope that the novelty of technology will fade and the love for live music will make a triumphant return.
