As more and more concerts are being taped and put onto streaming services, many wonder if buying tickets for live concerts are worth it anymore.
Artists have advertised their concert films by saying that watching from home is the “best seat in the house”. Personally, I disagree. I believe that going to a live concert is much better.
“I preferred seeing Olivia Rodrigo live personally,” Sophomore Mia Necas said. “I got to hear her real voice and experience her dancing, singing, and being herself in person.”
A concert is a true once in a lifetime experience, and watching it on television doesn’t compare to that feeling. It benefits others by bringing people with similar interests together. This promotes a sense of community.
A live performance has an immersive atmosphere. Going to one that you would enjoy reduces stress and releases endorphins. This helps your mental health in the long run. It provides a mental reset by letting you forget about daily worries.
Most people would say that my opinion is valid. In fact, 90% of PHS students agreed that live concerts are better than concert films.
But, 10% would disagree. They would rather watch a concert documentary. Although I have a differing opinion, I can understand their point of view. Ticket prices for the biggest artists are very expensive these days. Waiting for an artist to release a documentary of their concert is much more convenient than paying hundreds of dollars for decent seats. Not to mention, many may feel more comfortable watching from their own home.
Many also find enjoyment in watching a concert film in theaters. For example, Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour” movie brought a whole new perspective for fans who didn’t get to see her perform live. Theaters were filled with fans that were singing, dancing, and having the time of their lives. This concert film brought to light the idea of filming and releasing footage of a famous artist’s show. In total, this documentary earned $250 million dollars in the box office, making it the highest-grossing concert film of all time.
Still, watching a concert from home or in theaters doesn’t have the same appeal as the experience of a live performance. There are many famous musicians that have expressed their love for singing live in front of an audience.
In an interview with Apple Music, singer Billie Eilish explained the importance of an emotional connection with an audience, and how she doesn’t feel that same connection in a recording studio. She even mentioned that she wants all of her fans to see her live because it represents her music more authentically, rather than listening to a recorded song.
Eilish also has a famous concert film that was taped from her record-breaking “Happier than Ever, The World Tour.” This film grossed $2 million dollars worldwide, and was also Grammy-nominated for Best Music Film. By watching this documentary, many can see how she connects with her audience and how they react to her groundbreaking music.
Both perspectives for watching a concert are valid. With everything considered, many just want to watch their favorite artists perform the music that they love. That is how music builds a community for people with similar interests.
