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Phoebe Bridgers Joins The Phone-free Trend

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“Kids are on their phones too much these days” sounds like something your uncle who got his CDs from Columbia House in the 1990s would say. But it’s actually the stance of Phoebe Bridgers, a 32-year-old star with a young fan base. For her new tour, which began last month, she’s banning smartphones.

There are two main reasons that Bridgers and other artists want attendees to metaphorically touch grass—one altruistic, and one financial:

It allows fans to live in the moment, even if the moment is wondering if someone texted you back.
But it also creates a greater demand to see a show live, since content won’t make it to social media.

How does it work? Fans place their devices—including AirPods, smartwatches and Meta glasses—into a bag that locks magnetically and can only be opened in designated areas or after the show. Fans then get a physical ticket and, since many venues are cashless, must pay for concessions via physical card.

Pushback: Critics say the policy can be ableist (fans can’t monitor health issues) and elitist (fans that can’t afford tickets can’t see anything from shows).

Also performing: Bob Dylan, Alicia Keys, and Jack White are among the musicians who have also recently banned phones at their concerts.—DL

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Phoebe Bridgers Joins The Phone-free Trend

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