Growing number of musicians are banning phones at concerts

Singer-songwriter Phoebe Bridgers has mandated phone-free shows for her Lost Tour, echoing similar moves by other musicians like Jack White, Childish Gambino, Alicia Keys, and Bob Dylan.

Attendees place their electronic devices—including smartphones, AirPods, smartwatches, and Meta glasses—into securely locked Yondr pouches for the duration of the event.

The growing trend encourages music fans to stay in the moment and enjoy the performances. It also drives concert demand by preventing footage from leaking onto social media platforms.

However, Bridgers’s policy sparked a wider online debate. Some are calling it ableist, since people might need devices to track health issues.

It also alienates fans who cannot afford concert tickets but rely on shared online clips to experience live performances of their favorite artists.

Not new
Several other live performances, like Broadway theaters and comedy clubs, also follow a no-phone policy.