Why Certain Artists or Bands Fall Short: A Seer's Perspective
Introduction
Possessing a free ticket to a concert can be an exciting prospect, perhaps even a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. However, there are instances where such tickets might pass me by, not out of apathy, but due to a deep-seated reluctance or disinterest in seeing certain performers. This is likely due to personal tastes, evolving music trends, or even the inherent nature of the 'show' rather than the music itself.
Free Tickets and Music Pivots
Not long after my first encounter with a free ticket, which was to see Elvis Presley in Las Vegas around 1974, I had another interesting experience. A casino employee approached my father with a generous offer for free tickets to see Elvis, setting the scene for a potential visit that would forever be etched in my memory. However, my lack of interest and fan status towards Elvis meant that I preferred watching TV in the hotel room. This experience reflects the personal and sometimes contextual reasons why a free ticket might not be the most exciting proposition.
Modern Music and My Perspective
In the present day, there are several artists or bands that I would not go see even if they were offered a free ticket. This includes groups like Queen without Freddie Mercury or Bad Company without Paul Rodgers, as the missing lead singer significantly impacts their appeal. Similarly, renowned figures such as U2, Slayer, The Beach Boys, Motley Crue, Poison, and The Who would also fall into this category. My past experiences and evolving tastes mean that the absence of a central figure to center the experience around makes these performances less appealing.
For my age group, the Jonas Brothers and Miley Cyrus present a different challenge. Their performances are marketed as teen-centric events with a lot of spectacle and may not align with the kind of musical experience I seek. Emphasis on live performance over fan interaction or spectacle-focused concerts is something I tend to steer clear of. Furthermore, Nickelback and bands with a screaming fan base face a similar challenge, as their style and the associated atmosphere may not interest me.
Live Music and Audience Behavior
The nature of live music concerts can also contribute to the decision against attending. For Tool, my disdain for their music is justified. While I once went to attend on behalf of a friend, the experience was far from enjoyable, with the music proving to be irritating. This highlights how one's enjoyment of music might be intrinsically tied to the live performance aspect or the presence of the original artist.
Moreover, I have a general tendency to avoid large crowds and the associated noise and exertion of attending a concert. The idea of dealing with a massive audience to see a small speck on a stage does not appeal to me. It is also worth noting that as a fan of classical music, I find it more appealing due to the smaller crowds and earlier start times, typically around 8 PM. The atmosphere and nature of classical music concerts can be more conducive to a relaxing and enjoyable experience, which is starkly different from the often late-night debauchery associated with pop concerts.
My Relationship with Music and Live Performances
Despite my interest in music, it is internally inconsistent when I consider attending a band performance. When I'm part of a band, I understand the value and enjoyment of the live performance for the audience, especially when it's my gig. However, when it's not my band or an event, the experience can be quite different. I find myself standing outside the venue to listen to a couple of songs or attending the soundcheck early and listening to the music that way. This approach shows a preference for a more intimate and controlled experience rather than a large, bustling concert.
Recently, the case of Bob Dylan came up. Despite being a huge fan, I declined the opportunity to see him live when he came through, partly due to the large venue and the thought of dealing with a massive crowd to see a single performer on a small stage. The arena setting, combined with the large crowd and late-night show, might not have been enough to overcome my reservations about the concert experience.
Overall, my perspective on live music and the decision-making process for attending concerts is multifaceted. It includes personal taste, the nature of the performers, the live performance atmosphere, and the practical aspects of the concert experience. Whether it's a deveursial atmosphere, the nature of the music, or the late-night element, there are factors that influence my ultimate decision to attend or stay away from a live performance.