Do you still gig at 45? Now I'm under no illusions, and I do know that I'm heading ever closer to the big 50, but does that mean I can't gig? I for one don,t think so. Admittedly the reason for going may be different. I mean, I wouldn't listen to a band, think to myself they're OK and out of interest go see them live. No, I have to pick my nights out very carefully, for one I don't have enough babysitters to call on, plus I don't have the energy to frequent large gig venues. It needs to be a band/artist I'm a fan of and would love to see. I suppose part of the question is answered right there, if you have young kids at home and are of an age that, by the time the band comes on your usually puffing up your pillows, it may seem obvious that your age is relevant. However, if puffing up your pillows at the end of the day is the highlight of the evening then surely getting yourself out there with your plastic pint, pushing an shoving through a rowdy crowd is whats needed to make you feel alive and if I dare say it, young.
I'm lucky enough to have a child in her twenties who is happy to come out with her old Mum, but if she wasn't eager to accompany me I would struggle to find a fellow gigger. When I say where I'm going to my friends the usual reaction is surprise then a kind of pat on the back in a good for you, you old boot way. No one has actually said can I come? Most say Id have liked to have gone but that's easy to say after the matter. Maybe I should try harder next time and ask around a bit more instead of assuming no one wants to come. Ive got to say I have no apprehension about going to a gig and look forward to it.
The crowd depends on the band of course so I'll use my most recent experience, Babyshambles. What?! I hear you cry, OK so admittedly not the greatest of human beings to have walked the earth but musically and lyrically he has a lot to beat. I love the Libertines stuff also so just had to go along. Maybe my age restricts the location and venue size as I don't want to travel miles then get stuck to miles back with just a screen to watch. Local and small suits fine. The crowd was a complete mix of old, young, men, women what did seem apparent was everyone was already an existing fan. The night was brilliant swilling about with me pint and singing my socks off, even got down the front and jumped about. Scores on the door 10/10 for the night. I was even home for my 12 0 clock curfew for the sitter!
What's the answer then? I personally don't think there is an age where you should not gig, maybe your personal circumstances dictate the venue and the practicalities of late night, travelling etc. Personally I enjoy it and don't feel intimidated or out of place. No one else seems to care that your there if you're having a good time and not killing the vibe of those around you. My next gig is The View in November, looking forward to it already and brushing up on my lyrics. So, if you've ever thought 'Oh I love them, Id love to go!' Take it from me GO!
