The Power of Live Music

It’s been approximately 9 months since I experienced live music and the energy of the crowd. As someone who always has a ticket to a future gig, it’s felt soul crushing to have all the events you’re looking forward to being cancelled or postponed. I know I’m not alone in this experience, which is comforting. That is the beauty of live music…it’s unifying. This is one of the many reasons why I love live music. Here’s some more…

I love live music because it erases loneliness.
Whether that’s through the presence of the crowd around you, or through captivating melodies and lyrics, live music makes you feel like you belong.

I love live music, because it brings out the best in people.
Live music gives people permission to feel, to express their emotions.
Take a look around at the next concert or festival you attend. I guarantee you’ll see people smiling, crying, singing and dancing. Live music allows you to be your most authentic self and not feel shame for the emotions you’re feeling or the experience you’re living.

I love live music because it is pure escapism.
For the duration of the setlist unfolding in front of your eyes, nothing else in the world matters. It’s as if the moment your ticket is scanned at the entry, all of your worries are left behind. Your worries are denied entry. The weight of the world is lifted from your shoulders and you feel light, filled with joy. Live music can make you feel so far away from the mundane, stressful, exhausting and painful aspects of day to day life. It’s that euphoric, relieving feeling that I miss the most right now.

I love live music, because it is healing.
I genuinely believe live music is healing. Some of the most famous live music performances come from events that aimed to heal the world. From Live Aid in 1985 to One Love Manchester in 2017 and FireFight Australia in 2020; benefit concerts prove that live music can create atmospheres of love, support, empathy and unity. It’s magical to witness and incredibly inspiring.

As 2020 nears its end, I find myself more and more grateful for every live music event I’ve experienced in my lifetime. In the moment, concerts and festivals pass by swiftly. The adrenaline kicks in and it all feels like a blur. However, those moments stay with you forever. Whether it’s in the form of photos, videos, outfits, tickets or the blurry memories in your mind, it’s more important than ever to revisit them, hold onto them and remember why you love live music.