**I think this section is very important.... Especially for those of us who are relatively new to the concert scene. These days you don’t just simply ‘go’ to a show. In order to have a fun and safe time; there are a few things that you need to know so that you can be prepared for anything. I asked Don Walker from WZZI, friends from the Metal Edge Bulletin board, and also you guys for advice on this part, and following is the information that you gave me. I really hope that it comes in handy. Thank you guys!!!**
A. Tips to keep in mind when getting ready to go...
1. No matter how excited you are, be sure to eat something light. If it’s warm outside, eating too much can make you feel sick....not to mention the butterflies in your tummy!!
2. Dress in layers. Most concerts get hot (even in winter), so wear layers of light clothing as opposed to one heavy jacket. You can wrap light clothing around your waist or stuff them into your pocket.
3. Wear comfortable shoes, and a hat and sunscreen if the gig is outdoors. This is for your comfort, guys! :) I’ve worn heels to a show and could hardly hobble out when the concert was over!
Note: If you have backstage passes, girls, you can throw some dressier shoes in your bag for later on. Just don’t kill yourself during the show. Besides...how can you walk sexy if your feet hurt like hell? :)
4. *IMPORTANT!! Don’t forget the ear plugs!!! If you are sitting close to the front, or in front of the speakers, this will actually help with the sound quality. I forgot mine when I went to the Salem gig last year, and I spent the entire show wondering why Joe sounded like a Pixie! :) Ear plugs are a must!!!
5. Girls, if you can help it, try not to bring a purse. This is an item that you’ll have to keep up with....not to mention that it might get snatched during the show.
*Important Note on Cameras*: Be sure to check with the facility on whether they allow cameras or not. If they do allow cameras, be sure to ask which kind. Some places only allow disposable cameras (Why? I have no clue!) and some places don’t allow them at all. It’s important that you check to make sure. (Note from Becky: I was at the Nashville show in 2000, and they were allowing every camera in under the sun, EXCEPT FOR MINE because it was a digital camera!) **People have been known to sneak cameras in, but whether or not you get caught will depend on how good your hiding place is. Use your own judgment. Of course you can ask for advice from other people on this topic. :) I’m a chicken at heart...so I’ve never tried to sneak anything!**
B. Going to the concert:
1. Go with a group of friends if possible. You’ve heard the old saying ‘ There’s safety in numbers’? Well....it’s the truth. No one will pick you out as a potential victim if you are with a group.
Note: If the show you are attending is General Admission, make sure you get there at least a few hours before the show.....especially if you want to stand up front. Even if the show is assigned seating, you should be there a couple of hours before they let you in. It’s better to be early, than late.
2. Park as close to the concert building as possible.....and under a light. This is just common sense. :)
3. If you plan to drink, have a designated driver. Guys, it’s better if you don’t plan to drink anything other than water or soft drinks when you are attending a concert. I mean, you paid big bucks to see the show, right? Then you at least want to remember something about it! But, for those of you who absolutely can’t do without the booze...please make sure you do it right. We don’t want to lose any of you to an accident.
*Important Note*: If you came with friends who drove, be sure to bring a little extra cash, just in case you lose them in the crowd and need to call a taxi.
*Important Note #2*: If you are depending on Mom and Dad or a friend to pick you up, make sure you have a specific time and place to meet (like the McDonalds across the street or the front entrance).
4. Waiting in line for hours can be hard, so make sure you drink plenty of water. Caffeinated and alcoholic drinks tend to dry you out, so if you can, stay away from them.
C. Going into the show:
1. Use caution if you are going to try and sprint to the front of the stage. You can’t exactly enjoy the show if you’ve broken your leg or arm, right? :) And, don’t trample anyone either. That’s a no-no!
**Important Note to people going to a show for the first time**:
Once you are down front and before the show starts, you will be directed to sit in your space by the concert security team. When the lights go off, get ready to stand up IMMEDIATELY, or you’ll get trampled by the fans trying to push forward. Don’t let those fans behind you push you too hard! Be sure to stand your ground, and if it gets too bad, don’t hesitate to call for help from the security guards. That’s what they are there for.
2. Even if you can’t see, don’t stand on the chairs! The security guys don’t like this and they will tell you to get down immediately. If you try to sneak and stand anyway, you run the risk of getting thrown out permanently. Honest injun!!
3. Be polite to your Security Team! Guys, they might seem tough and ill tempered, but you still have to treat them with respect. Do as they ask.....and do it immediately and without fussing. They have to enforce the rules. It’s their job.
D. Things not to do at a show:
1. Think twice before using recreational drugs. This is very unwise and if you get caught.....you’ll be sorry!
2. Don’t get positively, falling-down drunk! You just paid big bucks to see the show, and you want to remember what it was like!
3. Even if you don’t like who you are standing near, don’t cause a fight. You meet all types of people when you go to these shows, so be prepared for anything. Just call security, and let them know what’s going on. They might be able to do something.
E. Tips on Moshing (According to Don Walker of WZZI):
If you are going to mosh, and you’re small, stay near a big friend! Don’t wear your chain wallets and please watch any piercing - they can get ripped out! Drink lots of water because you will sweat a lot!!!
Guys, according to many people who frequently go to big named concerts, many of the problems they have are caused by the fans themselves. Please...use good judgment and don’t do anything that will cause someone harm. Be aware of what’s going on around you....and have a wonderful time.