The guitarist of rock band Cold Chisel has announced fans will be barred from taking photos and recording during his tour.
Ian Moss was one of the founding members of the Australian band, which came together in 1973 and was fronted by Jimmy Barnes.
Their debut single Khe Sanh, released in 1978, is one of the most popular songs ever recorded by an Australian act.
Although they disbanded in 1983, they’ve subsequently re-formed several times since then, the most recent being in 2012 when they also toured around the UK.
In the decades since Ian, 70, has embarked on a successful solo career, with his 1989 debut album reaching number one on the Aria Albums Chart.
This week he is hitting the road again for his latest tour, One Guitar One Night Only, but has now told fans they won’t be able to use their phones at the gigs.
Posting on Instagram, Ian explained the decision.
‘To ensure the best possible experience for everyone – both the audience and the artists – photography and video recording will not be permitted during the performance,’ he began.
‘In the past, we’ve taken a relaxed approach, but following feedback about disruptions, we’ve changed our policy. Venue staff have been briefed and will help us enforce this policy. There will be no exceptions.
‘We kindly ask you to respect the performers, fellow concertgoers, and the atmosphere by switching off phones and other devices for the duration of the show. Be present and enjoy the performance with your eyes.’
Although some questioned the ban, the decision was largely met with support.
‘While I think this is a cool move, I also think people should be allowed to record short 20 second videos of just their favourite songs! But I do still respect the decision made here,’ Davis commented.
‘Can’t wait. What a great idea!’ Laura shared.
‘Having people videoing and shoving cameras up your nose is sort of putting when performing. Good call Ian,’ Craig explained.
‘This is objectively an improvement for concertgoers too, who don’t want to watch the experience from behind the devices of those in the rows before them,’ Joey added.
Last year Bob Dylan announced he would be banning phones throughout his UK tour.
The shows in London, Liverpool, Nottingham, Wolverhampton and Edinburgh, were phone-free, with people having to put their phones in a pouch, which closed automatically when in the venue and unlocked in the venue’s concourse.
At the time organisers said they hoped that by removing fans’ ability to use phones, the concerts would be more ‘in keeping with many past performances’.
Two years earlier Placebo requested fans keep their phones in their pockets.
‘It makes Placebo’s performance so much more difficult,’ they said. ‘More difficult to connect with you and to communicate effectively the emotions of the songs.
‘It is also disrespectful to your fellow concertgoers who want to watch the show, not the back of your phone.’
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