An August 2005 concert at the Detroit FOX Theater changed my life forever. The tickets were free and we had box seats, all you can eat shrimp buffet, and hundreds of screaming fans to see T.I., The St. Lunatics, and headliner, Nelly. That was the day I fell in love with T.I. Tip Harris.

Search the internet, scour your newspapers and magazines, listen to the radio, and watch television. There are concert listings everywhere! If there is one thing that needs to be on everyone’s bucket list; attending a concert should be it. But before you go off on your adventure, there are a few things every concert junkie should know.

Get a concert buddy. Although it is perfectly fine to attend a concert by yourself, it is much more fun to attend a show with a friend who enjoys the artist or band just as much as you do.

Check out the venue. First, make sure that you can afford the tickets and that you are of age to get into the venue. There are a lot of places that are only open for the 18+ crowd on certain nights. Also, remember that less is more. In my experience I have realized that smaller venues always produce a better show. They are more casual which makes the artist seem like he or she is playing for you while still in the “garage band” phase, which in my opinion is the best music you will ever hear.

Wear something unique. Of course you want to wear something that makes you comfortable, but you should also consider wearing something that makes you stand out. Boots are always a good option too because not only are they in style and chic but they are great to store things in like your ID, extra cash, and keys. Large purses and bags just get in the way.

Bring extra cash. There will probably be a parking fee and most of the time they only take cash. Also, if you are bold enough to buy your tickets on the day-of, remember that ticket prices go up and you want to have enough to get in, not to mention money for drinks once you get in the show. Cash is always a necessity!

Get there on time. If the venue is small, you have a better chance of getting to the front before everyone else. If the venue is big, you definitely want to get there early to avoid the crowd, especially if you haven’t bought your tickets yet. I have missed numerous artists because I was late for shows, and trust me, you don’t want to miss out.

Get to the front! Don’t worry about your seat, you don’t need it! Everyone is going to rush the stage anyway, just make sure you get there first! The closer you are, the better chance you have of getting a hand shake, better pictures, or even a free t-shirt.

Know the words. After you have pushed and shoved to get to the front, make sure you know the words to the songs once you get there! A lot of artists will hand the mic to a fan to sing a line or two and you don’t want to be the fan without a clue.

Get hyped! You’re at a concert! How many chances do you get to scream your favorite lyrics at the top of your lungs? Just have fun!

Go in with a mission. Whether it is getting an autograph, taking a picture, or even have a conversation with the artist, make sure it happens! Don’t rush to leave the show so quickly, you never know what surprises may ensue. Even if your mission is a fail, at least you will have fun trying to achieve your goal.

Don’t become a groupie. It’s fun to meet the artists and have a conversation and even attend an after party, but don’t go overboard. You don’t want to be the girl whose number is on speed dial of the entourage’s phone. Always remember, you are just another girl on a long tour.

By: Olivia Lewis | Image: Source