The New Front Line in Concert Security: Beyond Ticket Scams and Artist Control
Over 3.5 million people attempted to purchase tickets for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour last November, only to be met with system crashes and widespread frustration. But the issues facing live events aren’t just about overwhelming demand and scalpers. The recent incident at NBA YoungBoy’s Make America Slime Again tour stop in New Orleans, where non-ticketed patrons attempted to force entry after the show began, highlights a growing trend: a proactive, and sometimes aggressive, disregard for traditional access control. This isn’t simply about ticket fraud; it’s a shift in how fans – and those seeking to exploit events – approach concert attendance, demanding a re-evaluation of security protocols and artist agency.
The Rising Tide of Post-Show Entry Attempts
The Smoothie King Center incident, while swiftly contained by security and the New Orleans Police Department, wasn’t isolated. Venues across the country are reporting an increase in attempts to breach security after performances have commenced. This suggests a calculated risk assessment by those without tickets – believing security may be less vigilant or overwhelmed once the main act is on stage. Mike Hoss of Legends Global confirmed that all individuals involved had already cleared initial security screenings, raising questions about the effectiveness of layered security approaches. The challenge isn’t necessarily preventing entry altogether, but managing the surge of individuals who’ve bypassed initial checks and are attempting to exploit vulnerabilities.
Beyond Metal Detectors: The Need for Dynamic Security
Traditional security measures, like metal detectors and bag checks, are becoming insufficient. The focus must shift towards dynamic security – adaptable strategies that respond to real-time threats. This includes increased personnel presence, particularly around perimeter access points during peak moments (like immediately after the headliner takes the stage), and the implementation of technologies like AI-powered video analytics to identify and respond to suspicious behavior. Venues are increasingly exploring solutions like facial recognition (though privacy concerns remain a significant hurdle – see EFF’s report on facial recognition at concerts) and enhanced crowd management techniques.
Artist Control and the Influencer Factor
The New Orleans stop also revealed a secondary layer of complexity: artist control and the evolving role of influencers. NBA YoungBoy’s manager, Alex Junnier, publicly alleged interference from the New Orleans Police Department, suggesting a directive impacting the artist’s performance. While the post was removed, it underscores the potential for external pressures to influence events. Simultaneously, the attempted live stream with Adin Ross and Cuffem, and YoungBoy’s subsequent refusal, highlights the artist’s agency in controlling their narrative and image. This is a growing trend – artists are increasingly selective about media access, prioritizing authenticity and direct engagement with their fanbase over traditional promotional channels.
The Power of Direct-to-Fan Engagement
YoungBoy’s decision to decline the livestream isn’t about rejecting promotion; it’s about controlling the type of promotion. Artists are leveraging platforms like Twitch, Discord, and Patreon to build direct relationships with fans, bypassing traditional gatekeepers. This allows for greater creative control and a more intimate connection with their audience. The Make America Slime Again tour, with its diverse supporting lineup including Offset and Toosii, is itself a demonstration of this curated experience, appealing to a specific demographic and fostering a sense of community. This direct engagement also allows artists to circumvent potential negative publicity or unwanted scrutiny.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Live Events
The convergence of increased security challenges, artist control, and the evolving role of influencers is reshaping the live event landscape. We can expect to see a continued investment in dynamic security technologies, a greater emphasis on artist-controlled experiences, and a more sophisticated approach to access management. The days of simply scanning a ticket at the door are over. The future of concerts will be defined by a proactive, adaptable, and artist-centric approach that prioritizes both safety and the fan experience. What strategies will venues and artists employ to navigate these complexities and ensure the continued success of live events? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
