5 Gig Etiquette Rules That Shouldn't Need Saying (But Apparently Do)

Live music is back in full swing across Australia, and with it, a troubling rise in behaviour that would make any seasoned gig-goer cringe. Whether it's your first show or your five-hundredth, here are the unwritten rules that keep live music enjoyable for everyone.

1. Your Phone Is Not a Priority

A quick snap or a short clip for the 'gram? Fine. Filming the entire set on your phone, held above your head, blocking the view of everyone behind you? Absolutely not. You're not going to rewatch that shaky, blown-out footage. Put the phone down and actually experience the music.

2. Read the Room on Talking

At a loud punk show in a packed pub, chatting between songs is part of the vibe. At an intimate solo acoustic set in a small venue, your conversation about weekend plans is audible to the entire room — including the artist. If the performer can hear you, you're too loud.

3. Respect the Space

Want to be at the front? Get there early. Don't push your way through an established crowd three songs into the set, dragging your group of six with you. And if someone shorter ends up behind you, a little spatial awareness goes a long way.

4. Support the Artist

If you enjoyed the set, buy a shirt, grab a record, or at the very least, follow them on streaming platforms. For most artists playing pubs and small venues, merch sales are the difference between breaking even and losing money on the gig. A $30 t-shirt goes further than you think.

5. Tip the Sound Engineer

Okay, this one's aspirational. But the person behind the desk is the reason the band sounded good (or the reason you can blame if they didn't). A simple "great sound tonight" costs nothing and means everything to the unsung heroes of live music.

Live music only works when everyone in the room is pulling in the same direction. Be the kind of gig-goer you'd want standing next to you.