Jordan Rudess, keyboardist for Dream Theater, recently addressed the issue of phone use during live performances. He shared his thoughts in an interview on the Everblack podcast. The musician offered nuanced guidance on when it’s acceptable for fans to capture moments at concerts.
Rudess clarified that he has no objection to fans taking pictures or brief video clips during shows. However, he expressed concern about audience members who film entire performances without putting their phones down.
“I’m not at all annoyed by fans in the audience holding up their phones. I think people should be allowed to take pictures,” Rudess said. “The only problem is if you see somebody just out there holding the phone up and filming the whole time, just capturing the whole thing. I just think that that’s kind of rude.”
He emphasized the importance of balance. Fans should capture moments while remaining present at the show. “Take some pictures, capture a little clip, but don’t sit there the whole time and just hold your phone and capture the whole thing. That’s not right,” he explained.
Rudess also highlighted a particular concern for performers in close proximity to the audience. Holding phones directly in front of musicians, especially in front-row situations, can be distracting and disrespectful to the performers.
“If you’re in the front row and John Petrucci is right next to you — come on. Don’t just sit there and hold the phone. That doesn’t feel good to the performer. It’s not acceptable,” Rudess said. “Yeah, take a picture, sure, grab a moment, but put your phone down. Enjoy it. It’s rude for the player to have something right up to them. That’s distracting.”
He concluded with practical advice for concert-goers: “Do it in a natural way. Yeah, grab your phone, take a couple of pictures here and there. Absolutely. Enjoy it. Just don’t put it in somebody’s face and don’t hold it up the whole time ’cause you paid money for a ticket.”
Rudess’s stance reflects a growing conversation within the music industry about balancing fan engagement with live performance respect. His pragmatic approach acknowledges the modern reality of concert attendance while advocating for mindful technology use.
Ultimate Metal reported on Rudess’s perspective, which distinguishes between capturing memories and experiencing the show. Taking a photo or short video is acceptable, but filming the entire concert crosses a line into rudeness and disrespect for the band, venue, and other attendees.
The keyboardist’s comments align with a broader trend among artists who recognize the role of social media and personal memories in concert culture. Rather than seeking to ban phones outright, many performers like Rudess promote what could be called “mindful presence.” This means capturing a moment is natural and fine, but the priority should remain on immersing oneself in the live performance.
Blabbermouth highlighted Rudess’s practical philosophy: “Take a photo or a short video, but put the phone away and immerse yourself in the performance.” This approach acknowledges that fans want to document their experiences while maintaining the sanctity of the live concert experience.
The issue of front-row phone use carries particular weight in Rudess’s commentary. VOI noted that obstructive phone use in the front row is especially problematic. It blocks the view of other concertgoers and creates a physical barrier between the audience and performers. This consideration extends beyond mere etiquette—it affects the entire concert experience for those around the phone-wielding fan.
Ultimately, Rudess’s message to Dream Theater fans is clear: technology and concert attendance can coexist peacefully when approached with consideration for others. By respecting both the performers on stage and fellow fans in the audience, concert-goers can enjoy the best of both worlds. They can capture memories while remaining fully present for one of rock’s most technically impressive live acts.
