JUMPING bodies, the rhythm of the bass thumping through your body, and original Filipino lyrics sung from the heart: all of these are things you only get to experience at a live local gig. 

When the COVID-19 pandemic started, we had to put a stop to face-to-face events due to the dangers of spreading the disease through large crowds. As a result, we weren’t able to have face-to-face gigs in the Philippines for years; over 14,500 freelance artists and workers reportedly were negatively affected because of this. 

Now, as restrictions ease, live gigs are finally starting to make a comeback, especially within the local indie scene. Places well known for their artist-centered events, like Mow’s Bar, 19 East Bar, and Jess and Pat’s, have all been slowly getting their groove back amid the new normal.

But given how we’ve gotten used to simply watching musicians online, maybe many of us have forgotten how to act at live gigs. Or perhaps some simply never learned. The question now is: how should we act whenever we attend a gig?

Unspoken rules

While many go to gigs to let loose and unwind, it’s important to remember that there are still things that we have to be mindful of to make sure that we don’t bother others, or–god forbid–get thrown out of the venue. Here are some tips from a few gig regulars.

1. Don’t be violent 

When it comes to things like moshing, 3rd-year Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila student Ligaya said doing this depends on the event. But it’s important to remember not to hurt anyone. 

“Moshing depends from scene to scene, but if you aren’t in a hardcore show, try not to hurt anyone,” she said.

Those who aren’t into this kind of frenzied contact with fellow music fans should move away from the moshpit or the areas where this usually happens, said Zuleri Encarnacion, a Grade 11 student from Benilde.

“For moshes, they usually happen in the middle and during the climax of songs, so steer clear of that area if you don’t want to participate,” Encarnacion said. 

And of course, we should also help to keep those around us protected, too. 

“Kapag may nadapa o nalaglag, tulungan makatayo ulit, at siguraduhing safe si anteh,” Ligaya said.

2. Always be aware of your surroundings and things

When attending gigs, Ligaya recommends that people always keep their things close. 

“If may nakitang gamit na ‘di alam kung kanino, ibalik sa staff agad or sa lost and found area. If nawawalan ng gamit, try to have it announced by the host,” she said. 

3. Be respectful of everyone and everything – keep the gig venue a safe space

Cami, a 3rd-year student at the University of the Philippines, said we should always be respectful of everyone’s gender expression, including how they present themselves publicly.

“[And] be respectful of everyone’s creative works, may it be art or music. For example, in the case their creative work isn’t for you, don’t be hateful or reprehensive. And show support to local artists if you can by paying door fees, buying art, and streaming their music after the gig,” she said.

Kim, another gig regular, also advised smokers to go to their designated smoking areas. 

“Alalahanin niyo na it’s a shared space, so everyone should feel like they’re equals there,” they said.

4. Look, don’t touch

Remember: consent doesn’t just stop with people! Don’t touch what doesn’t belong to you. 

This goes for the performers’ equipment as well, said Ligaya.

“Wag hahawakan ang gamit ng venue or performers. Wag pagtripan [ang] speakers,” she said.

Kim also reminded people not to vandalize the venue. 

And of course, keeping the CLAYGO (Clean As You Go) mantra in mind is always great, too.

5. Support everyone!

University of Sto. Tomas student Bless Aubrey said it’s important to give love to all the bands performing. 

“Gets naman na meron tayong ‘bias,’ meron tayong talagang specific na artist or performer na pinupuntahan, pero hindi naman nakaka-hurt if makikinig tayo sa iba or mags-stay tayo a little bit longer para makita din yung potential ng ibang bands,” she said. 

6. Be yourself

Cami reassures everyone that they can be themselves and don’t have to pretend to be anything else to enjoy a live gig. 

 “Don’t feel like you have to be performative to fit in. Mostly, everyone’s there for the love and culture anyways, so go enjoy your time within those spaces freely,” she said. 

And while meeting new people is a big part of gig culture, they should still observe boundaries. 

“It’s nice to try and make friends, but make sure you’re not intruding on anyone’s space by randomly butting in on conversations,” said Ligaya.

Tips for your next gig

Kim recommends bringing your own jug and still keeping your face mask on.

Car owners should also scout for a parking space in advance, while those without a car should plan their commute to the venue.

Meanwhile, Ligaya suggests that gig goers bring an extra set of clothes. 

“[And] this is just me personally, but wear utilitarian clothes, especially if you plan on going in the pit. Baka masira outfit mo… literally,” she said. 

You also don’t have to be scared of the pit.

“Just join in on the fun, as long as you don’t push people too much,” she said,

Encarnacion advised newcomers to always bring extra money for merch or emergencies. 

“If you have savings in mind, you can bring a small bag instead of a tote, para [fewer] chances na madami kang mabili,” she said.  

Where to look for gig announcements

Aside from places already mentioned like Mow’s, 19 East Bar, or Jess and Pat’s, music lovers can also look at the pages of Sining Shelter, The Flying Lugaw, and the Sleeping Boy Collective for announcements on gigs happening in the PH.

Ligaya also recommends Furiosa, Counterflow, and Ingay Likha for those figuring out where to spend their next Friday night. Meanwhile, some collectives Encarnacion recommends are Alternatrip, Genjitsu Stargazing Society, ELEV8 ME L8R, 123BLOCK, and Balcony Music House.

Be sure to check out these pages for event postings on a variety of productions from all around the country; there’s never a boring day in the local music scene!