COVID-19 cancels concerts

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Global Citizen on Youotube

Taylor Swift singing an emotional song “Soon You’ll Get Better” on April 18, 2020.

Ever since the COVID-19 outbreak that has swept across the world, concerts, one of the largest aspects of the music industry, have been severely impacted. Social distancing calls for at least six feet of space between people, so hosting a crowded arena full of possibly infected fans raises questions about how safe holding concerts is during this outbreak. Artists are looking for alternative solutions.

Most concerts have been canceled due to COVID-19, but artists are taking to social media to host their “concerts” through live streams. Many celebrities, as well as music artists, are dedicating their performances to charities and raising money to help different causes.

Taylor Swift, Hozier, and Lewis Capaldi are just a few artists who have participated in live streaming their music during this turbulent time. Hozier does live streams for ISPCC Childline, a nonprofit aimed at preventing child cruelty. Taylor Swift performed for Global Citizens, “One World: Together at Home,” which was created by Lady Gaga. iHeartRadio also hosted an event where Lewis Capaldi played a 12 minute set in honor of the first responders and to raise money for organizations supporting those on the front lines.

Concert goers have been on edge for months, some electing to stay home even if the ticket cost isn’t refunded, which was the case for Maya Abraham and her cousin, Shelby Hard.

Abraham, a junior at Aspen High School, had tickets to go see Post Malone in Denver at the Pepsi Center on March 12th but chose to skip the concert to ensure her safety.

“I think it was a good thing we didn’t go,” Abraham said. “I felt angry and sad because it was part of a birthday present, but because we were social distancing and we weren’t with a giant crowd, there was less of a chance to get Corona Virus.”

Shelby Hard, a student at Colorado Mesa University, was also upset by the decision not to go but understood the importance of staying inside.

“I definitely think it was smart that we didn’t go. I think that would have only contributed to the overall problem. It was so hard to decide not to go, but I think it was the best choice in the end,” Hard said.

Some celebrities are doing their best to make self-isolation more enjoyable for everyone, and it comes down to the general public to stay inside and stay safe.