This blog was inspired by a recent post (on social media ironically) talking about how social media and technology have contributed to the demise of the night-time economy.
The piece (which you view read here) basically outlined how technology has transformed how we communicate, socialise, and entertain ourselves. While these advancements offer numerous benefits (allegedly), they also contribute to challenges such as general rising social anxiety with growing links with young people’s mental health. This link between excessive screen use, mental health, and the decline in social skills is particularly evident in the night-time economy, a sector dependent on human connection and interpersonal connection.
The night-time economy - comprising bars, pubs, clubs, theatres, and late-night eateries - is a vital part of the UK’s culture and economy. It fosters social bonds, generates billions annually, and supports countless jobs especially for musicians. This world is also where life is at its most vibrant and exciting (according to me). Traditionally, these venues have been spaces for relaxation, relationship-building, and community. However, the increasing dominance of smartphones and digital technology is reshaping these environments, creating new challenges for individuals and businesses alike.
Social media and messaging platforms have altered all of our social interactions. In night-time venues, it is now common to see people immersed in their phones instead of engaging with those around them. Almost in their own mini worlds. I see this everywhere I go these days. While this may seem harmless on the surface, I think it limits opportunities to connect and develop our social skills with others. These days meaningful conversation seems almost dead at times. As these skills decline, social anxiety—marked by fear and discomfort in social situations—has become more prevalent.
Digital platforms offer a controlled, curated alternative to real-life interactions, enabling users to edit their words, present idealised versions of themselves, and avoid immediate responses. While this feels safer, it fosters avoidance behaviours, making real-world interactions increasingly intimidating. Again, this trend is particularly evident in the night-time economy, where the vibrant social atmosphere is fragmenting. Patrons spend more time documenting experiences or scrolling through social media than connecting with each other, diminishing individual experiences and the collective energy of these spaces. This is clearly apparent on my own recent live gigs or DJ sets where phones are everywhere. It was quite invigorating to hear about certain night clubs banning phones on the dance floor recently. I hope many more follow suit! It’s hard to get lost and lose ourselves if everything is being documented by the masses.
More worryingly, for some younger people especially, dependence on their screens has led to avoidance of the night-time economy altogether. Crowded, unpredictable environments can perhaps feel overwhelming, particularly for those lacking confidence in their social skills. The safety of the phone can feel much more alluring if it is all we have ever known but it can move us all towards a sense of safetyism where the outside world in general feels too dangerous.
Addressing this issue requires a cultural shift toward mindful technology use. Raising awareness about the effects of excessive screen time on mental health and social skills is essential. For me, the success of Jonathan Haight’s recent book on social media, ‘The Anxious Generation’ has been a welcome and uplifting factor in our growing awareness, check it out.
In relation to the live music world, preserving the vibrancy of the night-time economy demands a commitment to fostering genuine human connections. By creating spaces that prioritise face-to-face interaction, we can try to balance the benefits of technology with the need for authentic social experiences, ensuring the sector remains a hub of culture and community. And this of course is where us musicians hone and deliver our craft!
Adam Ficek hosts a monthly show 'Tonic Music' on Totally Wired Radio, where he talks to various guests about music and mental health. You can listen again to any of the previous show on the Tonic Music Mixcloud page.
