After months of the world experiencing the current pandemic, It seems that the music industry as a whole may be permanently affected by the virus and its constant increase in cases across the country.
Of course, there have been several alternate solutions to in-person concerts over the past few months: live streams, augmented reality concerts, and even drive-in shows. But even with all of these options available and increasing in popularity, music fans everywhere have been left wondering: when will regular old concerts be returning? And an even bigger question: will the music industry ever be the same again?
It’s important to note that this period of quarantine and isolation hasn’t been completely detrimental to all facets of the music industry. Artists like Taylor Swift have written, recorded, and released entire albums. Swizz Beats and Timbaland launched an Instagram Live series called Verzuz, where Okay Player claims that “legendary artists and producers like DJ Premier and RZA or Ludacris and Nelly” are matched up in song-for-song battles right on the social media platform. Artists from The Mowgli’s to The Weeknd have created augmented reality concerts for their fans to watch from home. Technology has certainly been the industry’s saving grace in these trying times.
But what about the aftermath? Eventually, we will be allowed outside again, and we’ll be able to grab our four best friends, hop in the car, and head to a venue for a real live concert. But will they look the same?
The truth is that no one knows. Everyone at every level of the industry seems to have a different opinion, but the same end goal: get back to normal concerts while ensuring everyone’s safety.
The San Diego Union-Tribune suggests that “the new normal at live-music events could very well include requiring each attendee to register for contact tracing and to undergo temperature checks before being admitted. Plexiglass shields will abound. Hand-sanitizing stations may be nearly as plentiful as red plastic beer cups. The number of people allowed in the restrooms at any one time will be strictly limited”. And then the responsibility becomes that of the concert-goers. To keep those live concerts going, when they return, those in the audience will need to adhere to all of the rules and guidelines laid out for them, lest we end up right back where we started, with no live concerts at all.
What changes do you think are coming to the Music Industry due to COVID-19? Let us know what you think on our Social Media!
Instagram: @3300Climbing
Facebook: @3300Climbing
Twitter:@3300Climbing