United States: British singer Adele has joined a growing number of musicians speaking out against the disturbing trend of audience members throwing objects during live performances. During her Las Vegas residency, Weekends With Adele, at Caesars Palace, she addressed her audience, expressing her strong disapproval of such behaviour. Filmed holding a T-shirt gun, Adele made it clear that she would not tolerate objects being thrown at her and warned the audience, saying, “I would ‘kill you’ if you tried.”
This comes in the wake of several recent incidents involving other artists. Pink, during a London performance, had to pause when a fan threw a bag of their deceased mother’s ashes onto the stage. American country-pop singer Kelsea Ballerini was struck in the face by an object during a show in Idaho, prompting her to urge fans to speak up if they felt unsafe and to refrain from throwing things.
My eye black and blue now but much better!!!! Thank you!!! https://t.co/FBv9oG5NcG pic.twitter.com/InQwWLfqfM
— Bebe Rexha (@BebeRexha) June 23, 2023
Pop singer Bebe Rexha was also a victim of this behaviour when an audience member threw a phone at her during a concert in New York City, causing her to sustain a black eye. The perpetrator was subsequently arrested and charged with assault. Similarly, during an Ava Max show in Los Angeles, an individual ran on stage and slapped the singer, causing injury to her eye.
These incidents are not isolated cases. In the past, musicians like Steve Lacy and Lady Gaga have experienced similar encounters, with fans throwing objects during their performances. The growing concern over audience behaviour raises questions about the need for improved concert etiquette and respect for artists on stage.
As more musicians address this issue, it is becoming evident that such incidents not only pose physical risks but also disrupt the performance and overall experience for both the artist and the audience. Concertgoers are reminded to show respect and refrain from engaging in dangerous and disrespectful actions that jeopardize the safety and well-being of musicians.