Damon Albarn Criticizes Bob Dylan’s Concert Ban: “Where Does It End?”

With technology rapidly changing over the last decade, bands watched as fans used their phones to capture their favorite songs or to simply document their time at a show. While thrilled about fans traveling to watch their band perform, several groups criticized fans using their phones during a concert. Some even took it a step further when Tool, Alicia Keys, The Lumineers, and even Guns N’ Roses tried to implement a phone ban at their shows. Recently, Bob Dylan announced a phone ban during his upcoming tour, causing Blur’s Damon Albarn to speak out against the growing trend. 

As Dylan prepares for his upcoming UK Tour, the iconic singer decided to release some details for those looking to attend. While much of the details seemed reasonable, Dylan instituted a ban on phones. For any fan attending one of his 10 concerts, they will have to put their phone in a Yondr pouch, which can only be unlocked by a member of the staff. Fans can retrieve their phone only when leaving the venue. 

Speaking with the BBC about the decision to ban phones, Albarn appeared confused by the whole idea, blaming it on the lack of entertainment. “If you start banning things where does it end? I think you’ve just got to turn up and do your thing. People won’t want to be on their phone if you’re engaging with them correctly.” 

[RELATED: 4 Songs You Didn’t Know British Hitmaker Damon Albarn Co-Wrote for Gorillaz]

Damon Albarn Recalls Favorite Concert

Recalling his time performing at Wembley Stadium last year, Albarn explained how the concert was one of his favorites. And the reason why – because fans used their phone to create an energetic atmosphere. 

Back in 2022, Jack White of White Stripes also placed a ban on phones. Trying to give an explanation on why it was a good idea, the singer said in a statement, “We think you’ll enjoy looking up from your gadgets for a little while and experience music and our shared love of it IN PERSON.”

While bands continue to discuss the issue, Albarn is content knowing fans enjoyed his music enough to want to remember it forever. 

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