In an era where the glow of smartphone screens often competes with the stage lights at concerts, Ghost’s frontman Tobias Forge has made a daring move to reclaim the concert experience. The Swedish pop-metal sensation, Ghost, instituted a phone ban during their performances in July 2025, a decision that Forge describes as ‘life-changing’ for the band.
Forge, speaking at a fan Q&A session covered by Blabbermouth, revealed that the incessant phone usage at concerts had led him to consider the unthinkable: ending Ghost’s touring career. The distraction created by thousands of phones had diluted the electrifying energy concerts are known for. ‘You come out, there’s like 18,000 people there, and there’s like, 10,000 phones,’ Forge lamented, noting the diminishing enthusiasm in crowds and how it threatened the essence of Ghost’s performances.
The idea of banning phones wasn’t met with immediate support. Management and agents were initially hesitant, concerned about the logistical headaches it might cause. ‘We had to really vet that idea,’ Forge explained. Despite these hurdles, the band pressed on with their plan, allowing attendees to retain their phones but sealing them in pouches that could only be opened outside the auditorium.
While some might see this as an inconvenience, Forge views it as a necessary adjustment to restore the interactive spirit between the band and its audience. ‘If you came into a dress rehearsal and saw us do the same thing, but without a crowd, it’s dramatically worse,’ Forge said. The ban has not only revived the energy of their shows but also sparked interest among other bands considering similar measures.
This move is not just about reigniting the crowd’s energy; it’s about redefining the live music experience in a digital age. As Ghost continues to bask in the success of their phone-free concerts, their bold step could inspire a broader movement across the music industry.
In the grand pantheon of rock, where live performances are sacred rituals, Ghost’s initiative could set a new standard, reminding us all of the raw, unfiltered energy that brought us to concerts in the first place. As Forge notes, ‘It’s an exchange,’ one that might just be worth more than a thousand captured videos.
