“You’re watching again?!”
I sensed the judgment in my friend’s voice when I told her I’d be watching BTS’ Wings Tour 2017.
“Yeah, it’s not a big deal,” I told her.
This friend who loves me so much (bless her heart) rolled her eyes at me.
“Well, if it were me, I wouldn’t blow all of my money on one night,” she said in an off-hand voice, “Imagine: spending thousands of bucks for just one night. I could already see all the other things I could buy or invest in.”
As a fan girl, saying no to concerts has always been a struggle. When One Direction announced their first (and last) tour in the PH, I wanted to see them so bad. Still a student at that time, I bought my first concert ticket (Silver, the next one to Gen Ad) and got to hear the lads live.
Despite lining up for 11 hours, it was one of the best moments of my life.
Once I started earning my own money, the fan girl adventure continued. Unlike 1D, I chose closer seats and even bought a VIP ticket for one. So far, I’ve been to four concerts: One Direction, 5 Seconds of Summer, EXO, and BTS (I heard Ed Sheeran’s coming to town and I’m already panicking).
When people hear this, they couldn’t help but ‘feel bad’ for me. Some of them say I wasted my money on a single night; why did I do that?
But in all honesty, I don’t think I wasted my money.
Doses of Happiness
Everyone deserves a happy pill; in my case, watching my fave artist perform is a positive form of heroine. Concerts offer all sorts of happiness before, during, and after the event.
I absolutely love the anticipation that comes with an upcoming concert. Social media is buzzing with hashtags, posts, and shares whenever a band or singer is coming to town. I remember a month before BTS came to the PH, I was freaking out whenever announcements came. The anticipation was part of my happy pill after a day’s work.
The concert itself gives you a different kind of adrenaline rush. You can’t help but think: “OMG THEY ARE HERE. It’s finally happening!” The people you used to see on a small screen are now in front of you, singing and dancing live.
I shed tears of joy, I kid you not.
After the event, PCD (Post-Concert Depression) happens, but it’s okay. You and your phone still have those memories from last concert’s shenanigans. Sometimes, it’s the little pick-me-up you need when you’re sad or bored.
No Regrets
Concerts are once-in-a-lifetime experience (twice if you’re lucky). Whether you’ve listened or watch an artist for a few months or years, finally seeing them gives an amazing feeling. It’s also a fun activity that boosts your mood with loved ones and new friends.
Taz Tan, a fellow writer, recounts her experience with EXO’s Exoluxi’on in 2015. Despite being a VIP ticket holder, she wasn’t satisfied with Day 1’s overall experience (two of the dancers were injured and one didn’t show up). So when someone offered VIP tickets for Day 2 at cheaper prices, she couldn’t say no.
“I have absolutely no regrets with my concert purchases,” she said, “They are worth it.” (Note: I watched the Exordi’um with her. No regrets there either!).
Zhai Barro, an operations manager of a local online solutions company, spent 50 grand just to see Madonna perform. When asked about her pricey purchase, she answered, “You never know when she’ll come back. What if she doesn’t? Then I don’t have regrets; at least, I got to see her.”
No one wants to regret not seeing their favorite artist. Why do you think plenty of people flew out of the country just to see Coldplay? Because the band is worth it.
Spend Wisely: A Reminder
I’m not saying you should waste ALL of your money just to watch a band or artist live. When it comes to spending for these events, it still pays to be financially responsible.
To be fair, before I splurge on a concert, I make sure I’ve paid off my priorities: bills, insurance, and savings. I’m not the type who empties her entire bank account so I can watch Harry Styles belt out the highest notes. If my finances do not allow for a VIP ticket, I check if I can adjust and sit somewhere cheaper.
The mantra is simple: as long as I can see or hear them, I’ll be fine.
That way, when someone says I’m wasting money, I can look them in the eye and say: “I’ve paid my dues. I earned this.”
Others might still not understand why I choose to spend money concerts, but it’s okay. I don’t have to make them see my point. As long as I know I’ve paid my dues, I have every right to see my favorite band and not feel guilty about it.
And you don’t have, too, fellow fan girl.
Now, excuse me while I save up for Ed Sheeran 2017. *winks*
What's Your Reaction?
I wanna go see Ed Sheeran!!!