Ghost singer Tobias Forge doesn’t want selfies in the audience
Photo: Redferns, Mariano Regidor. All rights reserved.
Ghost wrapped up their “Re-Imperator” tour with Amon Amarth on Tuesday (September 12). They performed for the second time at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles.
There was an absolute ban on cell phones for both gigs. Smartphones had to be locked away and could only be used again after the concert. The band even threatened supporters who violated this rule with being kicked out of the arena.
In a statement before the performances of the Swedish heavy metal band, who always appear in masks, the organizer said:
“This event is a cell phone-free experience. The use of phones, smartwatches and accessories is not permitted in the event room. Upon arrival at the venue, all phones, smartwatches and accessories will be secured in individual Yondr bags, which can be reopened at the end of the event. Anyone seen using a device during the performance will be escorted from the venue by security. We thank you for your cooperation in creating a mobile-free viewing experience.”
The fans were not told in advance the reason for this action. Until now, Ghost had performed without such rules, but other musicians like Jack White were already familiar with such actions. Interestingly, wearing masks was also not allowed, as the operators of the Kia Forum also communicated before the shows (face paint was fine, however).
A few weeks ago, attendees at the Ghost concert in St. Louis were mistakenly forced to remove their face paint before the live event, which angered many. The organizers later spoke of misdirected communication and apologized for the inconvenience.