Live music gigs are popular for many reasons. People enjoy the music, the atmosphere, the venues, the dancing and the crowds. Personally, I enjoy the people watching. Most gig crowds will be made up of many different people of all shapes, sizes and creeds but there are certain types of people you can guarantee will be found at EVERY music gig:

The Randy Couple – Impersonating a dog on heat, the man is usually embracing the woman from behind. Hands clasped around her waist, he swings her around in time to the music while nuzzling into her neck. A space always clears around this couple as people attempt to offer them some privacy.

The Photographer – This person wants to capture every moment and wastes gig time looking at the small screen of their smart-phone as they hold it above their heads and snap away.

The Giant – There is no escaping the giant. Whatever gig and wherever you stand, the giant will always be standing in front of you.

The Restrained Dancer – This person really wants to bust some moves. They feel the rhythm. It is in their bones. But some strange force stops them from letting rip. They make short sharp movements to the beat and jerk their head violently from side to side.

The Tip Toe Viewer – This person is usually shorter than average. They stand on their tip toes, peering over the giant’s shoulders, looking for a sight line through the crowd to the stage. They catch a glimpse of the guitarist’s hair and think they have found the right viewing spot. Unfortunately, someone will always move in the way forcing them to seek out another gap.

The Parents – These have been dragged along as a taxi service for their teenage son or daughter, and can usually be found in a less crowded space at the edge of the room or by the fire exit. There is no pressure on the parents to look cool. They appear quite happy leaning against the wall with their rucksack and munching on a pre-packed sandwich while the band plays.

The Awkward Toe Tappers – Not a natural dancer, this person would love to just stand and watch. But they are surrounded by fellow gig goers who move, clap and dance in time to the music with ease and confidence. The non dancer feels pressured into making some attempt at bodily movement. They hope their one legged toe tap is in time to the music and will be enough to blend them into the crowd.

Next time you are at a gig keep a look out for these people. You never know, one of them might be me!