“Selfie Culture: Miranda Lambert Stands Against It, Advocates for Authentic Concert Experiences”

U.S. Miranda Lambert calls out fans taking selfies during concert

By | July 18, 2023

Country music singer Miranda Lambert recently made headlines when she paused her concert in Las Vegas to call out fans who were more focused on taking selfies than experiencing the music. Lambert’s actions have sparked a debate about the rise of selfie culture and its impact on the authenticity of concert experiences.

Miranda Lambert’s stance against selfie-taking

During her performance of the ballad “Tin Man,” Lambert noticed fans in the audience engaging in selfie-taking instead of actively listening to her music. Interrupting her own performance, Lambert expressed her frustration, stating, “These girls are worried about their selfie and not listening to the song. It’s pissing me off a little bit.”

The crowd responded with cheers, showing support for Lambert’s point of view. While Lambert’s decision to call out fans during her concert may have been seen as a bold move, it highlights a meaningful conversation about the role of technology and social media at live events.

The rise of selfie culture

In recent years, selfie culture has become increasingly pervasive, with individuals more focused on capturing the perfect photo to share on social media rather than fully immersing themselves in the moment. This phenomenon has spilled over into various aspects of life, including concerts and other live performances.

Selfie culture can be seen as a symptom of the growing influence of technology and social media in our lives. The need for validation and recognition on platforms such as Instagram has created a desire to constantly document ourselves and the experiences we have. However, this constant pursuit of capturing the perfect selfie can detract from the genuine connection and emotional experience that live events offer.

Authentic concert experiences

Attending a live concert is a unique and transformative experience. It provides an opportunity to connect with the music, the artist, and the surrounding community of fans. However, the prevalence of selfie culture threatens to diminish the authenticity of these experiences.

When concert-goers prioritize taking selfies over fully engaging with the performance, they risk missing out on the emotional connection and shared energy that can only be felt in a live setting. By being preoccupied with capturing the perfect photo, they are distancing themselves from the very essence of what makes live music so powerful.

Miranda Lambert’s decision to call out fans taking selfies can be seen as a call for a return to authentic concert experiences. She reminds us that music should be felt, not just seen, and that living in the moment is more important than capturing it for a virtual audience.

Advice for concert-goers

For those planning to attend concerts in the future, it is important to be mindful of the impact of selfie culture on the overall experience. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Put your phone away: Instead of constantly documenting the concert, try to live in the moment and fully engage with the performance.
2. Take a few photos, then put your phone away: If you feel the need to capture some memories, take a few photos at the beginning of the concert and then put your phone away for the rest of the show.
3. Encourage others to do the same: Spread the message of living in the moment by gently reminding others around you to enjoy the concert without the constant distraction of their phones.
4. Share your experience after the concert: Instead of instantly sharing your photos and videos on social media, take the time to reflect on the concert and share your thoughts and emotions in a meaningful way.

By making a conscious effort to resist the pull of selfie culture, concert-goers can not only enhance their own experiences but also contribute to the preservation of the authenticity of live music events.

is a current affairs commentator for The New York Times.