AnySelected

Legendary metal band Iron Maiden's manager, Rod Smallwood, has issued another passionate plea to fans: put your phones away during concerts. In an era dominated by social media and constant documentation, Smallwood's message is a refreshing call for a more immersive and authentic live music experience.

Smallwood's latest appeal, delivered with characteristic wit, urges fans to resist the urge to spend the entire show filming or photographing. While acknowledging that the occasional quick snapshot for a memento is acceptable, he strongly discourages prolonged phone use. “By all means take the odd quick pic as a memento of a great night, but otherwise please keep your phone in your pocket,” Smallwood noted, adding with a playful threat, “I wish you nothing but a very sore arm” - a clear reference to the potential discomfort of holding a phone up for extended periods.

The issue of phone usage at concerts has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. The constant glow of screens, the sea of raised phones obscuring views, and the potential for recording devices to interfere with the band’s performance have all become points of contention for artists and audiences alike. Many bands are now actively encouraging fans to be present in the moment, to truly experience the energy and atmosphere of a live show, rather than passively observing it through a screen.

Smallwood's warning isn't just about aesthetics; it's about preserving the integrity of the live music experience. He believes that excessive phone use detracts from the shared energy between the band and the audience. “It’s about connecting with the music, connecting with the band, and connecting with the people around you,” he likely feels. A concert should be a communal event, a celebration of music, not a solitary recording session.

Iron Maiden has always cultivated a fiercely loyal fanbase, known for their passionate dedication and respect for the band. Smallwood's message aligns perfectly with this ethos, reminding fans to prioritize the live experience over the digital documentation of it. It’s a call to put down the phones, lift up your voices, and truly immerse yourselves in the thunderous spectacle of an Iron Maiden concert.

So, the next time you're at an Iron Maiden show, remember Smallwood's words. Capture a memory, but don't let your phone steal the show. Your arm (and the band) will thank you for it!