August 29th, 2023, Kineree Shah
Recent data from YouGov Surveys: Serviced offers insights into live concert behaviour, particularly the trends surrounding phone usage and social media posting. Out of 2,026 respondents surveyed one-third say they have attended a live concert in the past 12 months (35%). One-fifth of attendees frequently use their phones to capture visuals or take pictures (22%). Among these, one in 10 always share their experiences on social media (12%). Nearly three in ten females habitually reach for their phones during concerts (29%), compared to one in seven males (14%).
In the sphere of social media, one-third of females (36%) always or often document their concert experiences online, contrasting with just one-fifth of males (20%). This data highlights the pronounced digital engagement of females at concerts compared to males. Such behaviour reflects concerns in the entertainment industry. Renowned artists, including Miranda Lambert have lamented fans' tendencies to prioritise capturing moments over genuine engagement.
Recent incidents in the music domain emphasise the pressing need for safety and decorum at live events. Distressing episodes include Ava Max being confronted by an intruder on stage, Pink receiving an unsolicited urn of a fan's mother's ashes, and Cardi B facing an interruption when a concertgoer threw a drink at her. Our survey suggests that such behaviour is not isolated; 22% of attendees have seen objects hurled at performers.
Furthermore, one in four concertgoers (25%) reported witnessing aggressive or disruptive behaviour in the crowd. Attendees also grapple with challenges such as prolonged wait times during entry or exit (39%), adverse weather conditions (37%), objects being thrown into the audience (35%), and inadequate facilities like restrooms (30%).
The data not only sheds light on audience behavior and preferences but also points to areas of improvement within concert venues. From developing apps that cater to a digitally active female audience, to investing in improved venue infrastructure, or even partnering with artists to promote a more immersive live experience, there are myriad opportunities to tap into.
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Methodology: YouGov Surveys: Serviced provide quick survey results from nationally representative or targeted audiences in multiple markets. This study was conducted online on August 8-9, 2023, with a nationally representative sample of 2000 adults (aged 18+ years) in GB, using a questionnaire designed by YouGov. Data figures have been weighted by age, gender, education, region, and race to be representative of all adults in GB (18 years or older) and reflect the latest ONS population estimates. Learn more about YouGov Surveys: Serviced.
Photo by Johannes Havn