In the ever-evolving landscape of house and techno music, smartphones’ role has become a contentious issue. These devices, designed to enhance connectivity and accessibility, are increasingly seen as disruptors of the immersive, communal live music experience that defines the scene. As more artists, clubs, and underground events implement no-phone policies, the debate intensifies: Are smartphones detrimental to the authenticity of the dance floor, or do they offer benefits that are too significant to ignore?
Smartphones have undeniably transformed the music industry. They enable fans to discover new tracks, connect with artists, and share experiences with a global audience. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become crucial tools for artists to promote their music and for fans to stay informed about events. This enhanced connectivity has democratized music consumption, allowing artists to reach broader audiences and enabling fans to engage with the scene from anywhere.
However, the use of smartphones at live events has sparked criticism. Some argue that recording and overdoing it on social media contributes to a ‘cringe’ culture where attendees prioritize documenting their experiences over genuinely engaging with the music and the environment. This criticism has led to a rise in no-phone policies to preserve the authenticity of live events.
Venues like Berghain in Berlin and 6AM, a global underground house and techno community-based in Los Angeles, have pioneered these policies. Marco Sgalbazzini, Chief Growth Officer and Events Director at 6 AM and CEO of Synthetik Minds, is a notable advocate. Sgalbazzini’s efforts reflect a broader movement to reclaim the essence of the dance floor experience.
Sgalbazzini’s approach fosters a more genuine dance floor environment post-pandemic. “I wanted to come back to a more genuine dance floor experience… to make sure that people could experience and be in the moment,” he explained in an interview with EDM Maniac. This stance addresses the growing influence of technology on younger ravers. Many attendees, having missed significant social experiences during the pandemic, turned to platforms like TikTok and Instagram to document their nightlife. Sgalbazzini observed that this shift has led to a culture where recording and social media presence often overshadowed the connection between music and community. “Rather than ravers who understand what the dance floor is really about and are connected to the music, instead they’re connected to their cell phone, social media, and the need to prove that they’re having a good time,” he noted.
To enforce this policy, Sgalbazzini and his team at 6AM implement various measures, including social media campaigns, stickering phone cameras at entrances, and requiring attendees to sign agreements. While the response has been mixed, many who understand the policy’s intent appreciate the enhanced experience it aims to offer. Sgalbazzini also noted that artists often prefer performing in crowds without phones. “There have been artists, like internationally touring artists, who have commented after the gig how pleasant it was to play to a crowd that is dancing and doesn’t have their phones up, especially in the front row,” he said.
This movement is gaining traction, with other prominent figures and organizations adopting similar policies. Damian Lazarus has implemented a no-phone policy at his Hï Ibiza residency, and Cercle plans an immersive phone-free tour. Even artists known for their visual productions, like Anyma of Afterlife, are beginning to execute such measures to enhance the live music experience.
The impact of this shift is felt differently across the community, igniting diverse perspectives. Long-time raver Jack, who has been part of the scene since the mid-’90s, shared his thoughts on the cultural shift. “Raving was way different without phones and social media,” he reflected. “Back then, it was all about losing yourself in the music and connecting with the people around you. The focus was on the energy in the room, not on documenting every moment. You felt more present, and the experience stayed with you at that moment.”
Many from Jack’s era and earlier rave generations echo similar sentiments. They argue that smartphones can be detrimental, as they often create a barrier between the individual and the live music experience. For these individuals, the presence of phones on the dance floor is seen as a distraction that detracts from the raw, unmediated connection with the music and the communal energy of the event. The shift towards documenting experiences on platforms like TikTok has also impacted the perception of specific genres.
For example, certain variations of hard techno, which have gained widespread attention on TikTok, are now being dubbed “TikTok Techno” by some ravers. They view this trend-driven label as indicative of a broader concern that specific genres’ virality and commercial appeal are diluting their authenticity and depth. This has led some ravers, especially the veterans, to criticize these genres for allegedly being more about trendiness than substance.
In contrast, up-and-coming influencer Victoria Crespin, who collaborates with brands like Suspex and The Festival Babes, offers a nuanced view of the role of smartphones. She recognizes the importance of documenting and sharing experiences but stresses the need to balance this with respect for the live event environment. “As an influencer, my phone is a tool, but I’m always conscious of those around me,” she explained. “Capturing content is part of the job, but it’s crucial not to interfere with other people’s experiences. The dance floor is a shared space; being aware and respectful of that makes all the difference.”
Victoria acknowledges that some influencers, in their focus on their job, might inadvertently overlook the impact of their actions on those around them. This oversight can sometimes lead to a negative perception of phones and influencers. “When influencers become too focused in their content creation, they might disrupt the experience for others,” she said. “This can contribute to the bad reputation smartphones and influencers sometimes receive.”
Nonetheless, Victoria views smartphones as having significant benefits when used thoughtfully. “Phones can enhance the experience by allowing fans to share their moments and connect with others who couldn’t be there,” she said. “They help build a community and promote new music. It’s about using technology in a way that complements, rather than takes from the present moment.” She advocates for a balanced approach, where documenting and sharing are integrated with a genuine connection to the music and the crowd.
Victoria believes that with mindful use, smartphones can enrich the dance floor experience rather than diminish it. “You can still enjoy and document the night while staying present and engaged with the music and the people around you,” she suggests. “Sometimes, stepping back and soaking in the moment is just as important as capturing it. It’s all about finding that balance.” By adopting this approach, she believes it’s possible to embrace the best of both worlds—enhancing the event through technology while preserving the essence of the live music experience.
Smartphones’ positive aspects cannot be overlooked. They enhance connectivity, facilitate music discovery and promotion, foster community engagement, and provide real-time updates. These benefits contribute to a more vibrant and interconnected music scene, allowing fans and artists to connect in previously unimaginable ways.
Looking ahead, the debate over smartphones on the dance floor is likely to continue evolving. As technology advances and new forms of engagement emerge, the music industry may find innovative ways to balance connectivity with maintaining the essence of live performances.
Ultimately, this debate highlights a shift towards prioritizing presence and engagement in live music experiences, challenging the role of smartphones in shaping dance music culture. As Sgalbazzini stated, “It’s all about educating, being welcoming, but at the same time communicating why this is important.” By fostering an environment focused on music and human connection while still leveraging the benefits of technology, the scene can continue to thrive.
Whether through embracing no-phone policies or encouraging mindful use, the goal is to ensure that the dance floor remains a sacred space for genuine, unmediated experiences where the music and the moment reign supreme.
