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Cellphones at Concerts: Ruining the Concert Experience

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Getting a UC Berkeley student to admit that they use their cell phone to record concert is tough work. It is understandable, as we are in Berkeley — home of many music purists who will most likely shame you for admitting to the fact. However, I did manage to coax it out of Lindsay Cook, a current junior majoring in Plant Biology. She reluctantly confessed to the fact that she does sometimes film concerts on her phone, but she wants to stress that she didn’t film the entire time. Rather, just a few moments that she wanted to hold onto firmly in her grasp to remind herself of the night she saw one of her favorite bands, Radiohead, back in 2012. “I need this in my life,” was her rationale for taking a few videos of the band performing her favorite song or the moment when Thom Yorke showed off his hilariously awful dance moves to the crowd. Rewatching this video brings her back to the mindset of that night; for her, it’s simply a pathway to nostalgia.

People recording concerts on their cell phones has become a popular occurrence at live performances as of late. No longer is there a shared glance between the artist and spectator, as many audience members have chosen to, instead, view them from behind a lens. Is recording a concert or any type of live performance disrupting the connection between the performer and the audience? Or is it no harm no foul? While recording any type of live performance is done to keep the memory alive, it has prompted people to under appreciate the value of what makes a live event so unique and special.

During my interview with Greil Marcus, music journalist, scholar, and author of the acclaimed “Mystery Train: Images of America in Rock ‘n’ Roll Music,” he spoke about the joy of truly experiencing an event while watching a live performance. “Some people come to life on stage,” Marcus said. “On stage they don’t know what’s going to happen next…and that sense of uncertainty and unpredictability creates a kind of excitement that just can’t be replicated anywhere else.”

That level of excitement never reaches its full threshold when holding up a phone to record the show, as it creates a wall between yourself and the performer. It generates a sort of shield that protects the audience member from connecting with the artist. “When you’re holding up your cell phone and you’re recording a video of a performance, you are yourself representing it rather than experiencing it directly,” Marcus said. “You’re putting distance between yourself–emotional, physical, technological–and the performance.”

This distance has had such an effect that many performers are now fighting back, writing personal messages to their audience so that they will refrain from taking videos. Prince, Beyonce, She & Him, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Jack White have all led the charge in restricting cellphone use during their live performances. It even led the normally private and reclusive Kate Bush to release a statement to her fans before her return to the stage in 2014 after a 35 year absence. After making a request for fans not to use their cellphones she stated, “I very much want to have contact with you as an audience, not with iPhones, iPads, or cameras. I know it’s a lot to ask but it would allow us all to share in the experience together.”

Don Henley, Eagles’ drummer and co-vocalist, took a much more aggressive stance on the matter. During their “History of the Eagles” tour in 2015, the band implemented a policy to reprimand anyone caught recording.  “This could be our last time around,” Henley told news.com.au. “We want people to be in the moment with us and experience the concert through their eyeballs and not a tiny square on a phone.”

Comedians have also joined the fray, and have even paired up with a phone-locking company to battle this issue head-on. During a string of shows in Chicago late last year in 2015, comedian Dave Chappelle made a deal with San Francisco-based company Yondr, which provides smartphone-locking pouches for concert attendees. Theatre attendees place their smartphones inside the Yondr case, and upon entry of the phone-free zone the cases will lock. If anyone wants to use their cellphones, they simply step out of the phone-free zone to unlock the case. The company, founded in January 2014 by Graham Dugoni, has been used by music venues such as Oakland’s Stork Club and San Francisco’s FAME Venue. In an interview with Newsweek, Dugino explains that the idea is to “remind people why they’re at a live event and to give people a reprieve from hyper-connected lifestyle while forcing them to interact with others instead of reflexively pulling out a device.” Stated on Yondr’s website, the vision of the company entails a single purpose: “to show people how powerful a moment can be when we aren’t focused on documenting or broadcasting it.”

While it may sound extreme, the policy established by the Augusta National Golf Club during the 2015 Masters Tournament takes the cake. According to officials, any attendee taking a cell phone onto the course at Augusta National will be escorted off the premises and banned from purchasing tickets there for life.

Nick Bielak, a fourth year Classics major, performs guitar and vocals for the local Berkeley band Animal Pants. He was more open-minded about the subject, but said he had mixed feelings. He admits that there are benefits if people choose to share their videos on social media, as more people can be exposed to his band’s music, and they can help him and others remember the show.  “I know that I particularly will go through my pictures and videos,” he said. “And every time I do, it brings me back to that day.”

Despite being pleased that fans want to film his show, Bielak explains that it serves as a barrier between the performer and the audience more than anything else. “The point of a show is to let go, dance, and enjoy the moment,” he said. “I don’t see it as not paying attention, but rather [as] not completely immersing yourself in the moment.”

Can these two conflicting sides of wanting to remember a performance while still being present in the moment be reconciled? Founders and supporters of the StereoCast app seem to think so. The app, created in October 2015, gives concert attendees the ability to download a live recording of the concert as soon as the show is over. Its technology is directly linked to the artist’s soundboard, thus providing digitally mixed and mastered recordings of the performance to be directly shared only with the people who attended the concert. If this app became available to all concerts, and not just a few, it would change the music landscape for the better as both sides would win. For fans who want to have that digital souvenir, it would now readily available to them–all while being totally immersed in the concert experience and not having to spend time filming it on their cell phones.

What makes the StereoCast app unique is that it unites the artist and their fans. No one is taking away anyone’s phone here. But at the same time it values the idea of watching a live performance through one’s own eyes. The memory inside your head is an underestimated tool that will bring an even more lively and rich experience than a shaky video filmed on a phone ever can.

When I asked Marcus if he would, given the chance, want to go back in time and film the night he saw Johnny “Rotten” Lydon’s band, Public Image Ltd, on his phone in order to relive it again, he didn’t know.  “If there was a DVD of that particular show…I’d probably buy it,” he said. “But I don’t know if I would ever watch it. I would be sort of comforted knowing that I had a record of that night.” He added that it wouldn’t hold the same significance as remembering it from his own point of view, however. “But I was at that show, and I remember it really well. It was distinctive. It was so powerful, I can’t even tell you if someone was holding up a phone. I didn’t notice… I didn’t care.”

I’m not promoting enhanced security or a lifetime ban from a venue or sporting event to police phone usage, because, simply, there is a shared understanding of the desire to physically document a special live performance that you want to cherish for years to come. Wanting the memory to be kept alive is not an evil inclination. Well, except if you’re over six-feet tall and are blocking the view of the Stevie Nicks swaying in a gypsy-like dance while bellowing out “Gold Dust Woman,” because you’ve decided to film for the entire two and a half hour concert. That’s when you officially cross the line, and become the spawn of Satan in my eyes.

The idea is to put yourself in the perspective of your favorite artist, comedian, athlete, or other performer you are dying to go see in person. Imagine setting up this whole live experience in your head: endless preparation and rehearsal of songs, speeches, or jokes,  or exhaustive training sessions and practicing for the tournament you’ve been waiting to compete in for your entire life. Now, you look into the audience, anxiously waiting for them to be in this moment with you. But instead of locking eyes with the people who are there to support you and see you perform, you find yourself alone on stage. You are faced not with their eyes, but instead, with the steady white glow of iPhones. Is this the kind of interaction you were hoping for?

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7 Trends That Are Gaining Interest In The Sports Industry

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Sports Industry

The sports industry’s dynamic nature has always seen emerging trends that seek to captivate athletes, fans, and other stakeholders. This world is fast changing as many key trends gain traction, shaping the world of sport in interesting ways. These trends include technological breakthroughs and evolving consumer tastes; hence, they offer opportunities for innovation that also impact the way sports are played, watched, or experienced. In this blog post we will look at seven emerging trends in sports attracting attention from the sports industry with an insight into what shapes the future of sports on and off court. Athletes’ teams, as well as fans, need to be watchful because these happenings are likely going to unfold within a vibrant sporting environment.

Here Are The Trends that are Gaining Interest in the Sports Industry

Esports integration

A sports industry trend is evolving that involves the merging of Esports, leading to its current popularity. As competitive games grow, traditional sports companies and brands seek ways to get involved with Esports. Consequently, this new fad features partnerships, endorsements, and investments into esports teams, leagues, and platforms.

The seams separating traditional sports from electronic ones are becoming more porous as players, fans, and sponsors increasingly appreciate virtual game competitions’ exhilarating thrills and rivalries. With digital technology transforming the sports industry considerably, it has provided an avenue for integrating Esports thus creating fan opportunities and monetization avenues online.

Wearable technology adoption

The sports industry is currently witnessing a new trend of interest: the use of wearable technology. Athletes and teams wear smartwatches, fitness trackers, and biometric sensors for training and performance analysis. These gadgets offer vital information about their performance and movement metrics. Using wearable technology, sportsmen can accurately trace their development, perfect their training plans, and prevent injuries.

On the other hand, trainers and sports scientists can utilize data retrieved from wearable devices for developing personalized work out programs that would facilitate better results on the field. As wearables become more sophisticated with time, they will increasingly become an integral part of sports, reshaping athletics exercise routines and rehabilitation processes.

Sustainability initiatives

Sustainability initiatives are a recent trend that is rapidly gaining popularity in the field of sports. Environmental concerns related to climate change and environmental degradation have made sports organizations and events emphasize eco-friendly activities and approaches.

This entails reducing carbon emissions, less waste disposal, and promoting renewable energy sources. Using green building techniques with sustainable materials and other efficient energy technologies has never been seen in stadiums or sports arenas.

Moreover, numerous sporting activities worldwide have embraced recycling programs, eliminating single-use plastics and endorsing eco-friendly modes of transportation to minimize their environmental footprints. Sustainability initiatives in the sports sector are good for nature conservation and resonate with increasingly environmentally conscious fans and stakeholders.

Virtual reality experiences

A new fashion has come into play in the sports industry, and it is the use of virtual reality experiences. With the latest technological developments, sports fans can engage in virtual environments with improved watching experience and interactivity.

Virtual reality affords physical presence, with fans at live games being able to view them from their homes as if they were there, thereby creating immersion and interaction that are unachievable through traditional telecasts.

Moreover, virtual reality experiences facilitate fan interactions with athletes, exploration of sporting arenas as well as partaking in immersive training simulations. Expectations see the rise of virtual reality technology taking the sports industry to another level, where fans can interact better with their favorite teams and sports through more innovative applications.

Personalized fan engagement

Personalized fan engagement is the new trend that is picking up in the sports industry. Sports organizations increasingly use technology to give fans personalized experiences as digital platforms and social media continue to rise. As such, sports teams and leagues have devised novel ways of reaching out to their fan base one-on-one, from customized content and interactive apps to targeted marketing campaigns.

This trend allows them to receive tailored content, exclusive offers, and opportunities for interaction thereby making them connect more with their favorite teams and athletes. Fostering deeper connections and enhancing fan loyalty has reshaped how sports organizations interact with their audiences while increasing audience participation rates in the digital age, boosting revenue opportunities.

Athlete activism

What’s new in sports is athlete activism, which has captured the attention of many. Athletes increasingly use their platforms to advocate for social and political causes. In this light, they kneel while the national anthem plays, engage in protests, and employ social media to generate sympathy towards various issues.

So, athletes are now appearing actively on the forecourt as well as behind the scenes, for that matter. From regular competitors, they have turned into inspiring public figures who prompt supporters and even other sportsmen to participate in actions that can lead to positive changes – confirming this tendency.

Alongside the growing popularity of athlete activism, some other products have become incredibly popular among sportspersons, such as CBDfx THC oil, which promotes relaxation and energizing effects.

Growth of women’s sports

The growth of women’s sports is becoming a trend gaining interest in the sports industry. The past few years have witnessed an enormous rise in the visibility and recognition of women’s sports across various disciplines.

Female athletes are attaining incredible success and winning over fans all around the globe, from soccer to basketball, tennis, and mixed martial arts, among others. This increase has been facilitated by media attention, sponsorships, and investment in women’s leagues and events. More young girls/women at all levels are engaging with sport thus inspiring future generations of athletes and challenging traditional gender roles within the sector.

Therefore, it represents a major stride towards gender equality in sports as well as a growing acknowledgment of the talent, athleticism, and contributions female players make to this field.

Bottom Line

Several trends are driving the rapid evolution of the sports industry, which has captured the interest of both athletes and supporters. These include, but are not limited to, wearable technology integration with esports, sustainable initiatives, and expansion of women’s games. Moreover, athlete activism, virtual reality experiences, and personalized fan engagement are changing the face of sports for audiences across the globe beyond recognition. These trends shall, therefore, influence the future of sports as they will continue to drive innovation and enhance the overall fan experience.

Author’s Bio

Evelyn Harper is an experienced wellness writer specializing in CBD and holistic health. With over five years in the industry, Penny provides honest and engaging reviews to help readers make informed health decisions. Passionate about natural remedies, she enjoys exploring wellness trends and trying new and best CBD products.

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Exploring Golfklúbbar: The Heart of Golf Culture

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Golfklúbbar

Introduction

Golfklúbbar, or golf clubs, play a crucial role in the world of golf, offering enthusiasts a place to practice, play, and socialize. These clubs range from small local facilities to prestigious, world-renowned establishments. This article explores the history, significance, and various facets of golfklúbbar, highlighting their importance in the sport and their influence on golf culture.

The Origins of Golfklúbbar

The concept of golfklúbbar dates back to the early days of golf in Scotland. The earliest known golf club, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, was established in 1754. Initially, these clubs were formed by groups of golfers who banded together to create dedicated spaces for playing the sport. Over time, golfklúbbar became more structured and organized, setting the foundation for modern golf clubs.

Structure and Facilities

A typical golfklúbbur offers a range of facilities to its members and guests:

  1. Golf Course: The central feature of any golf club, courses vary in design and difficulty, ranging from 9-hole to 18-hole layouts. Some prestigious clubs feature multiple courses, each with unique challenges.
  2. Clubhouse: The clubhouse serves as the social hub of the golf club. It often includes dining areas, bars, lounges, locker rooms, and pro shops. Many clubhouses also host events, meetings, and social gatherings.
  3. Practice Facilities: Golfklúbbar typically provide practice areas, including driving ranges, putting greens, and short game practice areas, allowing golfers to hone their skills.
  4. Additional Amenities: Some golf clubs offer additional amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness centers, and spa services, enhancing the overall member experience.

Membership and Community

Membership is a key aspect of golfklúbbar. Clubs often offer different membership levels, including full, associate, and junior memberships, each with varying benefits and privileges. Membership provides access to the club’s facilities, events, and competitions, fostering a sense of community among golf enthusiasts.

  1. Exclusive Clubs: Prestigious golf clubs may have selective membership processes, including recommendations, interviews, and waiting lists. Membership in such clubs is often seen as a status symbol.
  2. Public and Municipal Clubs: In contrast, public and municipal golf clubs are more accessible, offering affordable membership options and pay-as-you-play opportunities, making golf more inclusive.

Competitions and Events

Golfklúbbar host a wide range of competitions and events, from casual tournaments to major championships. These events are integral to the club’s culture and provide members with opportunities to compete, socialize, and celebrate the sport.

  1. Club Championships: Annual club championships are a highlight for many members, featuring competitive play and recognition for winners in various categories.
  2. Social Events: Golfklúbbar also organize social events, including member-guest tournaments, themed parties, charity fundraisers, and family days, enhancing the sense of community and camaraderie.
  3. Professional Tournaments: Some renowned golf clubs host professional tournaments, attracting top players and garnering global attention. These events boost the club’s prestige and contribute to the local economy through tourism and media coverage.

Impact on Golf Culture

Golfklúbbar have a profound impact on golf culture, shaping the way the sport is played, perceived, and enjoyed. They serve as custodians of golf traditions and etiquette, promoting values such as sportsmanship, integrity, and respect.

  1. Development of Talent: Golf clubs play a crucial role in nurturing young talent. Many clubs offer junior programs, coaching, and scholarships, providing a pathway for aspiring golfers to develop their skills and pursue professional careers.
  2. Preservation of Heritage: Historic golf clubs are stewards of the game’s rich heritage. They preserve iconic courses, maintain archives, and celebrate milestones, ensuring that golf’s legacy is passed down through generations.
  3. Innovation and Modernization: While honoring tradition, golfklúbbar also embrace innovation. Many clubs invest in technology, sustainability initiatives, and modern amenities, enhancing the golfing experience and attracting new members.

Conclusion

Golfklúbbar are more than just venues for playing golf; they are vibrant communities that celebrate the sport’s heritage, foster talent, and promote camaraderie among members. From their historic origins to their contemporary significance, golfklúbbar remain at the heart of golf culture, shaping the sport’s future while honoring its past. Whether exclusive or inclusive, traditional or modern, golfklúbbar continue to be integral to the golfing world, offering a place where the love of the game thrives.

 

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Synopsis of Haunting Adeline: A Comprehensive guide

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Synopsis of Haunting Adeline

Introduction

Synopsis of Haunting Adeline is a gripping psychological thriller by H.D. Carlton that has captivated readers with its dark and intricate narrative. The novel delves into themes of obsession, mystery, and the supernatural, weaving a tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Plot Summary

Setting the Scene

The story unfolds in a small, eerie town, setting the perfect backdrop for the haunting events that follow. The old Victorian house, with its creaky floors and shadowy corners, becomes a central character in its own right, adding to the atmospheric tension of the novel.

Introduction to Main Characters

Adeline, the protagonist, is a young woman who inherits the old Victorian house from her grandmother. As she moves in and starts to settle, she begins to uncover a series of unsettling secrets hidden within its walls. Alongside Adeline, we meet Zade, a mysterious figure whose intentions and past are shrouded in ambiguity.

Major Plot Points

The narrative kicks off with Adeline discovering a diary belonging to her great-grandmother, revealing a history of dark secrets and supernatural occurrences. As Adeline delves deeper into the diary, she becomes increasingly aware of a haunting presence in the house. The tension escalates as she encounters unexplainable events and begins to suspect she is being watched. Zade’s involvement adds another layer of complexity, as his connection to the house and Adeline’s family history gradually unfolds.

Themes and Motifs

Exploration of Main Themes

“Haunting Adeline” explores themes such as the persistence of the past, the nature of fear, and the thin veil between reality and the supernatural. The novel delves into the psychological impact of isolation and the ways in which unresolved traumas can manifest.

Recurring Motifs in the Story

Motifs such as mirrors, shadows, and the diary itself recur throughout the story, symbolizing the duality of human nature and the secrets we keep hidden. The Victorian house serves as a physical manifestation of the characters’ internal struggles and the haunting legacy of their past.

Character Analysis

Deep Dive into the Protagonist

Adeline is a complex character, torn between her desire to uncover the truth and her fear of what she might find. Her journey is one of self-discovery and resilience as she confronts both external and internal demons.

Key Supporting Characters

Zade, with his enigmatic presence, plays a crucial role in the story’s development. His mysterious background and motives add a layer of suspense, making readers question his true intentions. Other characters, such as Adeline’s friends and neighbors, contribute to the unfolding mystery and the eerie atmosphere of the narrative.

Writing Style and Structure

Narrative Style

H.D. Carlton employs a first-person narrative, allowing readers to experience Adeline’s fear and confusion firsthand. The use of descriptive language and vivid imagery enhances the haunting atmosphere, drawing readers deeper into the story.

Structural Elements

The novel is structured around Adeline’s discovery of the diary, with entries from the past interwoven with present-day events. This dual timeline creates a sense of continuity and connection between generations, emphasizing the enduring impact of the past on the present.

Critical Reception

Overview of Critical Reviews

“Haunting Adeline” has received praise for its suspenseful plot and well-developed characters. Critics have lauded Carlton’s ability to maintain tension and intrigue throughout the narrative, making it a standout in the psychological thriller genre.

Audience Reception

Readers have responded positively to the novel’s eerie atmosphere and the emotional depth of its characters. Many have noted the book’s ability to keep them guessing until the very end, with unexpected twists and turns that defy predictability.

Impact and Influence

Influence on the Genre

“Haunting Adeline” has made a significant impact on the psychological thriller genre, blending elements of the supernatural with traditional suspense. Its success has inspired other authors to explore similar themes and narrative techniques.

Cultural Impact

The novel’s exploration of fear and the supernatural has resonated with a wide audience, contributing to a renewed interest in ghost stories and psychological horror. Its themes of family secrets and personal hauntings have struck a chord with readers, making it a cultural touchstone for modern thriller enthusiasts.

Conclusion: Synopsis of Haunting Adeline

Synopsis of Haunting Adeline is a masterfully crafted thriller that combines elements of the supernatural with a deeply psychological narrative. H.D. Carlton’s skillful storytelling and atmospheric writing make this novel a compelling read for fans of the genre. Whether you’re drawn to tales of ghosts or psychological suspense, “Haunting Adeline” offers a hauntingly memorable experience.

FAQs

  1. What is “Haunting Adeline” about?
    “Haunting Adeline” is a psychological thriller about a young woman who inherits an old Victorian house and uncovers dark secrets from her family’s past.
  2. Who is the author of “Haunting Adeline”?
    The novel is written by H.D. Carlton, known for her ability to blend suspense and supernatural elements in her storytelling.
  3. Is “Haunting Adeline” part of a series?
    As of now, “Haunting Adeline” is a standalone novel, though its rich narrative world leaves room for potential sequels.
  4. What are the main themes in “Haunting Adeline”?
    The novel explores themes such as the persistence of the past, fear, and the supernatural, with a focus on personal and family secrets.
  5. How has “Haunting Adeline” been received by readers?
    The book has received positive reviews for its suspenseful plot, well-developed characters, and haunting atmosphere, making it a favorite among thriller enthusiasts.

 

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