Solo gigging: 'I've been to four gigs alone - here's why I'd do it again'

• There is a growing trend seeing more people attend shows by themselves. 
• A recent study has shown that 33% of ticket sales across events are for single tickets rather than group purchases.
• Though it may seem daunting, two new solo gig-goers share their experiences regarding the growing trend.

It would seem that the days of a group of friends heading to a concert together might be starting to become a thing of the past, as more concertgoers are choosing the solo option.

A recent study by Twickets, the ticket reseller group that are responsible for Oasis resales, showed that 33% of all ticket sales across every event are for single tickets, signalling a growing movement of fans embracing live music independently. 

One of those who has embraced the notion of going it alone at a concert is Cheshire local Lily Dimelow, who revealed that her most recent solo gig - watching Liam Gallagher performing in Cardiff - was quite the experience.

The 19-year-old recalled: “When I saw the Twickets notification for a face-value ticket to Liam’s Cardiff gig, I knew I had to go, even though none of my friends were available. Going solo was the best decision.”

For Lily, going to concerts by herself has opened up new experiences, such as meeting “some amazing people in the queue” while the early entry allowed her prime real estate when it came to where she would be standing in the crowd, directly next to the barrier.

Though her first experience going to a show by herself did lead her to be “nervous, I ended up meeting friends, which happens every time I attend a gig solo.

“Going solo allows you to enjoy the concert at your own pace and have some well-deserved "me time," Dimelow explains. 

“The experience definitely opened my eyes”

Norwich resident Matt Meazey had a similar experience when he decided to go see Pip Millett by himself, stating that he found the “atmosphere refreshingly different.”

“I was supposed to be going with my wife, but she was heavily pregnant and gave it a miss. I ended up going alone and was great, got talking to people and someone offered to buy me a pint. The experience definitely opened my eyes to solo gigging and actually it’s a really different but great experience.”

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Posting up towards the back of the venue, Matt found that the show was “a chilled out gig” and meeting new people “who like to talk about the gig” has led him to once more embark on a solo concert experience. 

Something he wished he had done sooner: “The Hives played locally a few months back, I didn’t go because no one fancied it but really wished I did!”

Lily had the same experience of meeting “people with similar interests” and that it was “easy to connect with others while waiting in line or during the show.” 

How to solo gig safely

Both Lily and Twickets have offered advice to those who wish to embark on seeing a show by themselves, with Lily professing she shares her location “with friends or family, especially if you’re travelling” and to use reputable taxi companies or private hire services such as Uber.

She also suggests visiting Facebook groups, especially for smaller artists, as “a great way to connect with fellow gig goers.”

Twickets also have suggested that those attending concerts alone to plan ahead; familiarise yourself with the venue layout, your seat or spot, and locate exits, restrooms and concessions to learn your surroundings and keep you at ease. 

But always trust your gut; if anything makes you feel uncomfortable at the venue, don’t hesitate to move closer to security or staff, and always trust your instincts when navigating a new environment.

"For anyone nervous about going to a gig alone, I’d say go for it” Lily exclaims as no doubt she plans her next series of solo shows.

Have you attended a concert alone or are you now more likely to go see a show solo? Let us know your thoughts on this trend by leaving a comment down below.