Published on 12, July, 2020
I went to my first concert in August 2022 - Westlife at Wembley Stadium. A choice for my first concert but I intended to make a day of it in London and meet friends (which didn't go to plan).
I've just come back from my second concert - JLS at the Birmingham Utilita Arena. Very different circumstances from the last one; no friends and my confidence level is as low as it can be. I did wear my sunflower lanyard this time.
I think in both cases the fear of judgement got the better of me. I was able to bob side to side, clap and mouth along to the song but I didn't let myself dance.
Getting caught up in those big crowds when leaving was hard - it's this part I wish I had someone with me for. Also walking through town on my own at night - I can appreciate how scary it can be for women/femme people.
I know I can do it but I think just for my own safety and comfort I'd prefer people with me.
I remember when I was 18, I had to go for this job assessment day thing. I had to wear a suit, make notes about sales, and it was like a 12 hour day. Came home and was pretty upset, insisting that I have someone with me next time I have to go for a job interview or something.
I'm mixed with it. I don't always need company, but I know now the value of it. I'm awkward enough on my own, it's worse when I've got more to think about.
Yeah, just in a reflective mood. I'm glad I did it though, it was nice to have my annual night out (!).
Well done for going. It is an achievement, one that you'll hopefully look back on and remember.
I've only ever been to a concert on my own once, to see Bon Jovi in my early 20s. It was my first (and last) experience of a concert and I really had no idea what to expect. I had no friends to ask and my mum had never been to a concert.
The hardest part was arriving early and having to wait for it to start. It was only then that I realised I seemed to be the only one on my own. Most other people seemed to be there in groups, they were loud and I had no easy way to escape the unwanted noise. I became quite self conscious and I just wanted to disappear and for the music to start. When the concert actually started all that disappeared and I was able to enjoy the experience.
Yeah the self-consciousness at the beginning is how I felt. Especially when you consider the demographic of the band I went to see.
I'm glad you enjoyed your experience.