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Follow the crowd – why live events unify us
September 5, 2024
In a world where we all seem to be connected through our screens, the role of live events to bring us together becomes more powerful. Live events possess the unique ability to unite people of all ages, backgrounds and beliefs. Creating shared moments of community and joy, live events leave lasting impressions and build memories.
One of the most striking examples of this is Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour. From young girls to millennials and their mothers, Swift’s concerts have become multigenerational phenomenon. Attending a Taylor Swift show is more than just seeing and hearing her music live; it’s about the shared experience of being in a space brimming with excitement and common love for a superstar artist whose work has defined moments in their lives. It’s a chance for mothers to relive their youth, and for young Swifties to be introduced to the magic of live music, all while enjoying communal bonding.
More recently, the announcement of Oasis’s latest tour sparked waves of excitement across varying generations (at least until they hit the horror of the Ticketmaster queue and dynamic pricing). Loyal fans who have supported the group since the 90s are eager for the nostalgia, while younger generations have discovered Oasis through streaming services and Liam Gallagher’s performances at festivals like Reading. The frenzy that has ensued is a testament to the timelessness of live music in bridging the gap between the young and the more mature.
Beyond music, live events like Notting Hill Carnival showcase how cultural celebrations can unite entire communities. Not only does the event celebrate the vibrancy of Caribbean culture, but it attracts almost two million visitors from all walks of life. Starting as a dance in St Pancras Town Hall in response to the horrific violence committed against the newly settled Windrush generation during the 1958 Notting Hill Riots, Notting Hill Carnival has blossomed into a two-day cultural extravaganza that brings people together to revel in Caribbean music, food and history.
The power of the live event is never more keenly felt than in sports with their unmatched ability to bring the masses together. We have just enjoyed the thrill of the Olympics – and now the Paralympics – as they take over a city and bring visitors together for the unforgettable spectacle of athletic prowess. While some spectators opt for the traditional events, the inclusion of newer, youth-oriented sports such as skateboarding, surfing, breakdancing and sport climbing have captivated younger generations.
In the past three years, I’ve attended over 40 live events (the majority being concerts) because the feeling of being part of a collective experience is unparalleled. Whether it’s the surge of energy that comes with a beloved song, or the joy of dancing and singing in sync with thousands of others, the physical connection of live events of all types is a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. We’re stronger together and the connections we experience at in-person events transcend the barriers that often separate us.
By Leah Ebanks