Entry Five: Solo gigs… weird or wonderful?
From the start and throughout most of my life, gigs were something I always shared with someone. Whether it was family dragging me along to shows when I was younger, or me dragging my mates to ones they weren’t too fussed about—it was always a social thing. Going to a gig solo? That was never even a thought. Younger me used to think it would be awkward, even a bit weird. Why would anyone go on their own?
Then 2022 happened.
I had a spare ticket to see The Academic at Manchester’s O2 Ritz. I was a uni student at the time, living in Leicester, and no one was free to join. But I wasn’t missing it—no chance. So, I drove to Manchester solo, parked up, and walked into a world I hadn’t experienced before. A little nervous? Definitely. The first few moments queuing alone, walking through the doors solo, are a bit daunting. But once the lights went down and the band stepped out, it all melted away.
That night? One of my favourite ever gig experiences. No distractions. No “where do you wanna stand?” conversations. No waving a phone torch in the air trying to find your mate. Just me, front and centre, the music, and the freedom to exist completely in the moment.
Since then, I’ve been to countless gigs solo—probably more this year alone than I’ve been to with people—and I genuinely love it. There’s a weird magic in going it alone. You move when you want. You grab a drink when you want, and most importantly, the rounds are cheaper! You take in the detail—the crowd, the sound, the lights. You chat with people next to you if you're feeling social, or you just vibe in your own space. And spoiler alert: no one has ever made me feel weird for being there solo. In fact, most people are just as friendly and hyped as you.
Of course, gigs with your best mates are unbeatable too. That shared buzz, making a day of it in the city before hand, belting lyrics at each other, the journey there and back. It’s a special kind of energy. But I’ll always, always be a loud advocate for: buy the ticket, regardless. Even if no one else can go. Even if it means going on your own.
Take yourself for a meal, dress up for you, and go see the music you love. You might surprise yourself with how much you enjoy your own company.
Final verdict: solo gigs… so bloody wonderful.
This Week on The Music Guyde…
Huge week at TMG HQ!
🎸 Weekly Guyde #7 drops Sunday — a dreamy collection of rising UK indie & soft pop-rock faves.
📝 Live reviews are up now for daydreamers and overpass, and trust me, Manchester was in full voice for them.
🌍 And next Saturday, it’s the big one… Milan awaits. I’m heading there with my best mates to see Inhaler, supported by none other than Blossoms (what a duo). Expect a very passionate review soon.
Things are ramping up around here—festival season is peeking round the corner and the gigs keep coming. Got a band or artist you reckon I need to hear? Drop me a message.
Until next time… don’t wait around. Buy the ticket. 🎫