Bucky's Helpful Hints for Having an Excellent Concert Experience

This blog topic's been simmering in my mind for a while, so I thought I'd unleash it just in time for the holidays. I've been to a lot of great concerts over the years, so I thought I'd share a few tips that I use to make these experiences much more memorable.

1. If you must eat or drink, do so before or after the show.
I can't tell you how many times I've seen people at rock shows have a few too many and end up making complete fools out of themselves and become a distraction for others who are trying to enjoy the music with their friends. I don't drink anymore, but when I do feel hungry or thirsty I either enjoy a nice meal before the show or satisfy my craving after the show when I've had time to absorb the great time I've just had at a concert. That's why I enjoy going to shows at casinos, because there are usually quite a few good options available.

2. Hit the merchandise table early.
I've scored a few meet and greet passes and some other collectibles that were only available in limited numbers at merchandise tables at some concerts right when I've entered the venue. You can wait until after the show, but some vendors close shop early, so the T-shirt or CD you had your eye on might be packed up by then.

3. If you value your hearing, bring earplugs.
At the last Sevendust show I was at, I was complimented and given a hearty slap on the back by a fellow concert-goer next to me who remarked that I was smart and remembered to wear earplugs. I replied that I'd learned my lesson from previous shows. After one show featuring Everclear and Nickelback at SCSU's Halenbeck Hall about ten years ago, my ears were ringing for three days straight, so I definitely learned my lesson then!

4. Respect the people around you.
This point is worth bringing up, because while I've had the good fortune to meet a lot of really great rock and roll fans over the last decade at different shows, there's inevitably a rotten apple or two who parties a little too hearty either before or during the show and just ends up being a jerk. Have some consideration for your friends and other fellow concertgoers and enjoy in moderation, OK?

Well, that's all for now. Next week, I'll post my final blog of the year, which will be a review of the best rock albums of 2011 that I've added to my collection. Until then, have a great day and Happy Holidays, everyone!