The weird tendency of people jumping on stage while the master of ceremony (MC) or artist is seeing out their duties is something I’ve been meaning to discuss on #IndustryLoop.
At live shows, what often happens is revellers get a bit too excited…and as a result, they end up on stage to either dance or sing along with the act or try to grab the mic from the MC.
Internationally, we saw footage of Burna Boy falling victim to this when a fan jumped onto stage while he was performing. Locally…there’s footage of a reveller coming on stage and attempting to quarrel with King Tee Dee.
Let me just start off by saying this…STAY OFF THE MF STAGE!!! You have no business being there. Unless the MC or the said act purposely brings you on stage, STAY OFF THE MF STAGE!!!
What is it that makes people think they can do a better job than the actual MC or artist? Is it the booze or other forbidden substances that give people this false sense of confidence?
I have yet to meet an MC or artist who enjoys this. It’s disruptive, it’s dangerous and it spoils the fun for everyone.
One understated fact is that musicians or MCs are also just human. They too get nervous, and anxious from trauma. The trauma of being attacked on stage by a fan or the trauma of a fan grabbing the mic. So yes, generally…the industry frowns upon such a practice.
Yes, there are exceptions to the rule. Intimate and high-end events are an exception simply because the people in attendance are generally of high value. One can trust attendees at such an event to behave well. People at an event of that nature generally would want to avoid becoming a meme or an internet sensation because of recordings going around them on stage making a fool of themselves.
But if it does happen, it usually happens with a bit of tact and class. People at an intimate and high-end event joining you on stage actually add some sort of personal touch and amplifies the experience. These are weddings, gala dinners etc. However, a live concert at an arena or a stadium? That’s a big no.
As an MC, I’ve experienced this a million times. Where people get too excited and grow the urge to grab the mic. Some even go as far as attempting to do my job. One golden rule of mine? I never ever share my microphone. There are exceptions although that’s the standing rule.
If there are any announcements to be made or anything related to communicating to an audience… you leave that responsibility to the MC. I get why people think they can just up and do the job of an MC. MCs make it look easy right? But many get a rude awakening once they are on stage.
You are not the MC. The MC has years of experience and expertise. The MC has technique, awareness and training to some degree. You don’t. Please leave it to the professionals. You are not the artist or the DJ. Artists or DJs are talented and skilled individuals who rehearsed for hours to deliver a product. You don’t have the skill or talent to be on stage.
Even if you do…it’s not the right time or place. Don’t watch movies or clips on TikTok and think you will now birth a whole career by going viral for interrupting an artist or a DJ during their set. So, please…STAY OFF THE MF STAGE.
There’s a reason why they are in that position and you are not. As for the podcast…I told you, be ready to be sick of me! Check out the New Era platform on YouTube for the latest episode. Enjoy it and share your thoughts using the hashtag #IndustryLoop.
Until the next Loop, we say #GMTM
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