1 Topic by Jigsawearth83 (edited by Jigsawearth83 2014-04-10 17:12:18)

  • From: Iowa
  • Registered: 2013-10-15
  • Posts: 61

Topic: Concert anxiety?

Wasn't sure whether to post this in General Topics or here, but I was just curious what other people's experiences were in terms of feeling overwhelmed or anxious in crowds or at concerts.

I'm about to go to my first Joe B show, which of course I'm excited about, but I also know that with my high sensitivity level, I can get easily overwhelmed with large crowds, super-loud music, and just the anticipation of the whole event. Anyone else deal with this? It's funny, because when I was 17-21 or so, I was all about going to concerts and raves... but ever since surviving an ultra-crowded weekend festival in Memphis years ago, I just haven't loved the idea of being in a tight space with tons of people unless I have an escape-to-the-lobby route nearby. smile

I have some tools at my disposal, so I'm not looking for tips so much (I can just see a bunch of you thinking, "take some Valium, girl!"), but more for just support that 1) others of you go through this too; and 2) that it's okay to get up and head to the bathroom in the middle of a set if I feel freaked out and need some air.

Any other highly sensitive Joe lovers out there with concert experience? :emb

2 Reply by guido (edited by guido 2014-04-10 21:20:09)

  • From: El Dorado Hills, Ca.
  • Registered: 2010-01-01
  • Posts: 797

Re: Concert anxiety?

Jigsawearth83 wrote:

Wasn't sure whether to post this in General Topics or here, but I was just curious what other people's experiences were in terms of feeling overwhelmed or anxious in crowds or at concerts.

I'm about to go to my first Joe B show, which of course I'm excited about, but I also know that with my high sensitivity level, I can get easily overwhelmed with large crowds, super-loud music, and just the anticipation of the whole event. Anyone else deal with this? It's funny, because when I was 17-21 or so, I was all about going to concerts and raves... but ever since surviving an ultra-crowded weekend festival in Memphis years ago, I just haven't loved the idea of being in a tight space with tons of people unless I have an escape-to-the-lobby route nearby. smile

I have some tools at my disposal, so I'm not looking for tips so much (I can just see a bunch of you thinking, "take some Valium, girl!"), but more for just support that 1) others of you go through this too; and 2) that it's okay to get up and head to the bathroom in the middle of a set if I feel freaked out and need some air.
Any other highly sensitive Joe lovers out there with concert experience? :emb



I too don't care for large crowds either. Not at the level you seem to experience but my daughter does on occasion. She'll sometimes get anxious in restaurants and have to take a break. I say that it's more than OK for you get up and relax at any point. Anyone doesn't like it.....tough noogies!

Why don't we eliminate all the warning labels and let things sort themselves out?
  • From: NB, Canada
  • Registered: 2014-04-04
  • Posts: 373

Re: Concert anxiety?

Jigsawearth83 wrote:

I'm about to go to my first Joe B show, which of course I'm excited about, but I also know that with my high sensitivity level, I can get easily overwhelmed with large crowds, super-loud music, and just the anticipation of the whole event.

As I read this post, I can only say to you ..

Girl .. you need to pat urself on the back for even contemplating this adventure .. clearly outside ur comfort zone. I applaud you.

Ur excited about it .. no buts ..

Do whatever you deem necessary to have a most enjoyable experience ..

Anyone doesn't like it .. tough noogies! (snagged that from guido .. lol)

I'll expect a full review of how much fun you had too .. lol cool

The BonaMaritimer .. All Dials To The Right!
  • Rocket
  • Rocket
  • BONAMEGAMETAL
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  • From: San Francisco
  • Registered: 2006-04-26
  • Posts: 10,275

Re: Concert anxiety?

Jigsawearth83 wrote:

Wasn't sure whether to post this in General Topics or here, but I was just curious what other people's experiences were in terms of feeling overwhelmed or anxious in crowds or at concerts.

I'm about to go to my first Joe B show, which of course I'm excited about, but I also know that with my high sensitivity level, I can get easily overwhelmed with large crowds, super-loud music, and just the anticipation of the whole event. Anyone else deal with this? It's funny, because when I was 17-21 or so, I was all about going to concerts and raves... but ever since surviving an ultra-crowded weekend festival in Memphis years ago, I just haven't loved the idea of being in a tight space with tons of people unless I have an escape-to-the-lobby route nearby. smile

I have some tools at my disposal, so I'm not looking for tips so much (I can just see a bunch of you thinking, "take some Valium, girl!"), but more for just support that 1) others of you go through this too; and 2) that it's okay to get up and head to the bathroom in the middle of a set if I feel freaked out and need some air.

Any other highly sensitive Joe lovers out there with concert experience? :emb

Awww, nothing to be embarrassed about! As far as #2, it's ok to get up and go to the bathroom for number two, number one, or, in your case, number none.  Heck Yes.  As far as your #1, do others go through this? Yes, quite a few and it is not all that unusual.  Asperger's, autism, epilepsy, panic attacks, and plain uneasiness can all distract someone being able to share the previously enjoyed contentment of others, with others in a group, and can be cropping up with no advance signs and needs immediate addressing.  You have tools, but an understanding and caring person such as myself, would gladly escort someone up, back, and even out as assistance to their attempt for some relief.  You honestly sound like you will be fine to me.

I wanted to suggest sitting with pattyluvsjoe. big_smile You couldn't do better to feel more comfortable  than sitting next to her (believe me, she knows) and the few folks closest near her...(no offense to anyone accompanying you, besides that goes for a pair of ya, too!)...I suppose there might be a risk if her exuberance was not beneficial. 

Good Luck, dear. wink


Rock ON & Keep the Faith,
Rocket

"He still doesn't charge for mistakes! wink"
http://jbonamassa.com/tour-dates/
"Everybody wants ta get inta the act!"
“Now, this isn’t your ordinary party crowd, here.  I mean, there are professionals in here.”
  • RickB
  • RickB
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  • From: San Diego
  • Registered: 2009-10-30
  • Posts: 12,198

Re: Concert anxiety?

Once Joe starts playing, you won't think of anything else as he takes you on his magic ride. His shows are seated so you will have space, and lots of friendly folks nearby as well. If you feel the need, get up and take a break, no one will care. Have fun!
Rick

Free download from Vienna! http://mbsy.co/bNLR
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  • Registered: 2012-05-31
  • Posts: 1,308

Re: Concert anxiety?

Crowd's per se don't bother me but the excitement of seeing Joe gets me so amped up I can't think straight.  Last November when I had my meet and greet with Joe I was so anxious I forgot what I wanted to say and was really in need of valium afterwards.   But once his music started the crowd and my fear that I said something stupid at the meet and greet just melted away.  Especially now that he opens with the acoustic it is just so calming.

Fingers crossed that this happens for you and you just concentrate on Joe and the music.

  • From: Iowa
  • Registered: 2013-10-15
  • Posts: 61

Re: Concert anxiety?

Wow, you guys are awesome. Thanks so much for the support. Glad to know that it's totally cool for me to get up if needed. I mean, I suppose I should have known that, but the fear of bothering people around me took over my rational brain... but you're right: tough noogies to anyone who cares! tongue

And yeah, I'm proud of pushing myself out of my comfort zone, I guess... even though it's hard sometimes, I don't want to miss out on seeing someone whom I've adored and respected for so long. It would drive me bonkers if he were playing nearby and I wasn't there to witness it.

Yesterday I was thinking about what you all had written as I walked to the farmer's market, listening to "Mountain Time" as I left the house. I just got filled with such a sense of indescribable amazingness, as I often do when listening to Joe, and I realized that if every cell in my body feels so alive and blissed out when listening to Joe's recordings or watching his DVDs, that it must be totally beyond magical to see him in person. And knowing that he's so down to earth, and seeing the rest of the band, and knowing that you like-minded, sweet people will be there to share in that experience really put me at ease.

Rocket, I bet I will be able to meet pattyluvsjoe, as we found out in my introductions post that she lives nearby and will be at the Des Moines show. AND, even crazier, I'll be going with my guitar teacher, who used to teach Patty's late husband! So I'm sure they know each other. Small world.

Anyway, thank you guys again. This is the best community. smile

  • From: Iowa
  • Registered: 2013-10-15
  • Posts: 61

Re: Concert anxiety?

Oh, and one last thing: about how long are his sets, just to have an idea? I remember reading a while back that it was a 45-min. acoustic set and then 2 hours of electric, but I wasn't sure if that was the norm. LMK! Now time to go check out all the recent setlists so I can see what to look forward to... smile

  • From: Maryland
  • Registered: 2012-05-13
  • Posts: 2,790

Re: Concert anxiety?

We will be at the Des Moines show as well. Patty has gathered together a wonderful group of people for this event. Hope we get to meet you. And as everyone else has said, do what you need to do to feel the most at ease. People get up all the time at shows and go out to the lobby or bathroom so no need to worry about it. We are all getting very excited about the show only 5 more days!!

10 Reply by nmagcorn (edited by nmagcorn 2014-04-13 13:37:03)

  • From: Maryland
  • Registered: 2012-05-13
  • Posts: 2,790

Re: Concert anxiety?

Jigsawearth83 wrote:

Oh, and one last thing: about how long are his sets, just to have an idea? I remember reading a while back that it was a 45-min. acoustic set and then 2 hours of electric, but I wasn't sure if that was the norm. LMK! Now time to go check out all the recent setlists so I can see what to look forward to... smile

His shows usually run about 2 hours 15 minutes with a 15 minute intermission between sets. 45 minutes for acoustic and about 1 hour and 15 minutes for the electric.

  • From: Iowa
  • Registered: 2013-10-15
  • Posts: 61

Re: Concert anxiety?

nmagcorn wrote:

We will be at the Des Moines show as well. Patty has gathered together a wonderful group of people for this event. Hope we get to meet you. And as everyone else has said, do what you need to do to feel the most at ease. People get up all the time at shows and go out to the lobby or bathroom so no need to worry about it. We are all getting very excited about the show only 5 more days!!

Awesome, glad to hear other people get up to wander as well and that I'll get to meet some of you! Will there be a meetup post at some point with info? I feel like such a newbie, lol. tongue

  • From: Maryland
  • Registered: 2012-05-13
  • Posts: 2,790

Re: Concert anxiety?

Jigsawearth83 wrote:
nmagcorn wrote:

We will be at the Des Moines show as well. Patty has gathered together a wonderful group of people for this event. Hope we get to meet you. And as everyone else has said, do what you need to do to feel the most at ease. People get up all the time at shows and go out to the lobby or bathroom so no need to worry about it. We are all getting very excited about the show only 5 more days!!

Awesome, glad to hear other people get up to wander as well and that I'll get to meet some of you! Will there be a meetup post at some point with info? I feel like such a newbie, lol. tongue

Some people on facebook were talking about meeting up at a place called "Zombie Burger" They were hoping to reserve a room, but unfortunately they couldn't it's first come first serve. Looks like they will still try and meet there any way. As Rick said "the BonaUndead will rule", lol!

  • From: St. Charles, IL
  • Registered: 2013-08-01
  • Posts: 636

Re: Concert anxiety?

Reading this really reminds me of my mom! She goes thru the exact same thing, and is always looking for an exit if were in a restaurant or grocery store. She won't go into Wal Mart because it is way to crowded for her so I don't think you're the only one who goes thru this! You would never know it though talking to her as she is a friendly and happy person. I would say at Joe's show take as many breaks as you want. Be proud of yourself for even stepping out of your comfort zone to go to the show! It will be all worth it and once it's over and your still trying to pick your jaw up off the floor you'll be super proud of yourself! smile 

Jigsawearth83 wrote:

Wasn't sure whether to post this in General Topics or here, but I was just curious what other people's experiences were in terms of feeling overwhelmed or anxious in crowds or at concerts.

I'm about to go to my first Joe B show, which of course I'm excited about, but I also know that with my high sensitivity level, I can get easily overwhelmed with large crowds, super-loud music, and just the anticipation of the whole event. Anyone else deal with this? It's funny, because when I was 17-21 or so, I was all about going to concerts and raves... but ever since surviving an ultra-crowded weekend festival in Memphis years ago, I just haven't loved the idea of being in a tight space with tons of people unless I have an escape-to-the-lobby route nearby. smile

I have some tools at my disposal, so I'm not looking for tips so much (I can just see a bunch of you thinking, "take some Valium, girl!"), but more for just support that 1) others of you go through this too; and 2) that it's okay to get up and head to the bathroom in the middle of a set if I feel freaked out and need some air.

Any other highly sensitive Joe lovers out there with concert experience? :emb

  • From: Salem, Oregon
  • Registered: 2010-01-07
  • Posts: 844

Re: Concert anxiety?

No worries...Joe crowds are generally very well behaved...and the average age is about 55 so you should feel safe !!!

Murfdog
  • From: Indianola, IA
  • Registered: 2006-07-26
  • Posts: 4,429

Re: Concert anxiety?

James Biehn is about as laid back & cool as one can get, so his aura should have you feeling all good.  smile What a great person he is!  We all look forward to meeting you and I'm sure once Joe takes the stage, you'll feel right at home wink
                                   pattyluvsjoe

"I'm not nice to any guitar!"      lol
                 Joe Bonamassa 05-03-12

JBLP CHILD #184
  • From: Iowa
  • Registered: 2013-10-15
  • Posts: 61

Re: Concert anxiety?

pattyluvsjoe wrote:

James Biehn is about as laid back & cool as one can get, so his aura should have you feeling all good.  smile What a great person he is!  We all look forward to meeting you and I'm sure once Joe takes the stage, you'll feel right at home wink
                                   pattyluvsjoe

You mean Chris Hunter? Not sure who James Biehn is, but since Chris fits the same description, I'll go with that. smile  Looking forward to meeting you too! Thanks again to all of you for the support!

  • From: Indianola, IA
  • Registered: 2006-07-26
  • Posts: 4,429

Re: Concert anxiety?

lol  Well, I got my guitar teachers mixed up  :emb   Don took lessons from both of them and if I would have researched previous posts I would have recalled it was Chris.  But it's true, the description fits both of them, so it's a win- win! Don loved both of them and they are both terrific guitarists!  (  James has Central Iowa Music Lab here in Des Moines and gives lessons, too )  So it all still works out to relax back and enjoy Joe wink
                         pattyluvsjoe

"I'm not nice to any guitar!"      lol
                 Joe Bonamassa 05-03-12

JBLP CHILD #184
  • From: Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
  • Registered: 2011-08-12
  • Posts: 4,614

Re: Concert anxiety?

Hi Jigsawearth,

I've been watching how this thread has developed and looks like the Bonamassa family is swinging in with great support; having some friends around will be sure to help reduce any anxiety you may feel. However, once Joe comes on and starts, odds are you'll barely notice time passing until he puts his guitar on the rest and waves goodnight.

If you do feel overwhelmed,  then step out, as you need to: it's your night out, enjoy.

Odds are, it won't be your only Joe gig, once hooked.....

When life gives you lemons; don't make lemonade.
Give back the lemons.  Why were the lemons free?  What's wrong with the lemons?
Do Not trust the lemons...