What’s behind the unusual idea.
Did Harry Styles spend too much time at Berghain? Or is it the title of his new album “Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally”? Because how did he come up with the idea of banning cell phone cameras at his release concert?
You know from clubs that your camera is taped at the door, but this is a rarity at concerts.
No cell phones at the release concert
That’s why fans of the former One Direction member were shocked when rumors spread that their cell phones could be confiscated. The Brit had already announced his release gig for the LP “Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally” at the beginning of the month – for the equivalent of 23 euros. At the same time it was announced that cell phones would be locked away at the concert and only returned after the show. The Co-op Arena in Manchester, where the show is scheduled to take place on Friday, March 6th, was even looking for staff for this.
The concept is being adapted
Due to negative feedback from many participants after the announcement, the concept was changed again. Now everyone should get a small bag for their cell phone in which filming is not possible, but in emergencies it is possible to make calls.
The arena shared the following statement: “We hope that you take this opportunity to enjoy the show to the fullest and fully immerse yourself in this experience.”
Disposable cameras instead of smartphones
Not only should filming with cell phones be restricted, but all digital recording devices such as cameras, smart watches and even smart glasses are expressly prohibited. Instead, every concert-goer will receive a small, disposable camera with which a certain number of shots will be possible.
Fans celebrate the idea
Many people on socials loved this idea and responded positively to it. Fans commented: “This is such a cool concept, Harry is bringing live music back in a way it’s never been done before.” and “I think this is really great for people who like to live in the moment but still want to be able to capture it…very cool.”
A debate that has been simmering for a long time
In recent years there have been repeated debates about how cell phones would ruin the atmosphere at concerts. Many artists ask their audience during their shows not to take out their phones during certain songs. The audience interior of some venues often looks like a sea of cell phones. Some visitors even film entire concerts, often never to watch them again.
There’s no need to do that at Styles’ release concert, as the entire show will air on Netflix and be available to stream for everyone starting Sunday, March 8th.
Harry Styles isn’t the first
While the concept is unusual, Harry isn’t the first to do it. Artists such as Bob Dylan, Alicia Keys, The Lumineers and Childish Gambino have also held cellphone-free concerts. The German musicians Schmyt and RIN also went on a complete “No Phones Allowed” tour in 2024.
And the big tour?
Harry Styles has not yet issued a ban for his subsequent tour in support of the LP. But if the release concert goes well, there might be another announcement…
The album “Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally” will be released on Friday, March 6th and will be available via the usual music streaming services. Listening with your cell phone is of course still allowed.
