Social media impact on live concert experiences

Social media is increasingly impacting the live concert experience, as fans report that spoilers regarding setlists, costumes, and stage decorations often appear online before the event begins. This phenomenon has led some artists, such as Phoebe Bridgers, to implement phone bans during performances to preserve the element of surprise.

To combat this, some fans are actively avoiding platforms like TikTok or marking content as ‘Not interested’ to protect their experience. In response, artists are frequently changing their setlists and special moments to maintain mystery. While some viewers find pre-event information helpful for setting expectations, others argue that the digital exposure diminishes the value of attending a live show.