The Importance of Live Shows
For artists and fans
Live shows have always been an important part of the music industry, they’re a way for musicians to interact with their fans and be able to demonstrate their talents.
Concerts give musicians the opportunity to showcase their skills and connect with their fans in a way that isn’t possible in any other setting. In a live show, musicians add twists and variations to their songs that fans may not have heard before in a studio recorded version. I know I keep using 5 Seconds of Summer as an example, but that’s because they’re incredible at recording, performing, and engaging with fans. An example that comes to mind is a transition that they do between songs when they perform live on tour. They use their songs Easier and More and switch from one to the other through a transition in which band members, Luke and Michael, go to the middle of the stage with their guitars and play the ending of Easier while transitioning to More which makes the fans go crazy because it’s different to what they’re used to hearing. I personally wish this version of the songs was available on streaming platforms. In the same way, live shows allow fans to see and hear their favorite artists up close and personal, creating a unique emotional connection that is hard to replicate. This connection is so strong that many times the audience creates “fan projects,” which can be connected to a song or an inside joke with the artist, to show their love and appreciation.
Live shows are also a crucial revenue stream for musicians, particularly now that streaming services have decreased the amount of income that musicians earn from recorded music. Touring, merch sales, and other revenue streams associated with live shows can make up a significant portion of a musician's income, allowing them to continue making and performing music. When the COVID pandemic happened, the live shows industry took a massive hit with basically all concerts and festivals being cancelled for everyone’s safety. This led to many artists resorting to virtual events to keep in touch with their fans for the time being. Three years later the industry is still recovering and multiple artists are going on tour and performing at festivals at the same time, and fans couldn’t be happier about it.
Why Don’t We performing a live concert that was streamed on social media.
Another big point of live shows is that they serve as a powerful marketing tool for musicians to build their brand and gain new fans. Concerts and festivals provide a chance for musicians to reach new audiences and introduce their music to people who might not have heard it before. Additionally, live shows can help to create buzz and excitement around a musician's new album or single which creates more interest and eventually helps sales. Again, I’m using 5 Seconds of Summer as an example. Before the release of their latest album, 5SOS5, the band put on a one-night-only show at the Royal Albert Hall in London, which was accompanied by a live orchestra. The show sold out almost immediately and fans were over the moon about being able to join their favorite band in such a special and intimate moment.
Overall, live shows will continue to be essential for the music industry, providing musicians with a way to showcase their talents, connect with their fans, and make money. While technology has given us different ways to consume music, there’s no substitute for the energy and excitement of a live show. Whether you're a casual listener or a super fan, there's nothing like seeing your favorite artist perform right in front of you.