Clubbing in a post-COVID 19 world
When the pandemic struck in 2020, one of the first entertainment venues to shut down were nightclubs. Classed as high risk, especially due to its tightly enclosed spaces, lack of ventilation and inhibitions, nightclubs were not the ideal space to be during the COVID-19 pandemic and were immediately identified as a risk. However, fast-forward to today and things seem a little different, both for those who visit clubs and DJs who play in them.
At an earlier point where restrictions were eased, the sudden spike in cases globally and targeted vaccinations for the elderly on priority, led to a disinterest in going clubbing altogether. Due to these restrictions and closures of nightclubs, there came a surge in virtual clubbing, allowing for safer experience from the comfort of home. This in turn gave DJs a new platform to perform, especially via livestreaming. However, due to these restrictions many growing and accomplished DJs and musicians lost out on their main performance venues. More music publishers now aim to release tracks online, or even sending their tracks to music producers to get more attention. Eventually, the trend shifted to having new tracks being available on streaming platforms with ample amount of promotion on social media. However, with clubs slowly opening, the pressure on DJs and music creators is higher than ever, with each of them determined to have a strong track to open with.
Nightclubs on the other hand started changing things around as well, turning to creative ways of working within restrictions. While some clubs completely closed, others adapted with the times, just to keep the business running. For instance, one club went completely virtual with the help of VR headsets, whereas another became a COVID testing centre. However, some changes we could see coming are more outdoor spaces or renovations that increase ventilation. Social distancing and limited entries can also become the norm while entry can be limited to vaccinated individuals only.
Restaurants now offer live music and performances whereas individuals have Zoom parties and gatherings where they listen or livestream the latest tracks. While the clubbing industry is slowing on the road to recovery, the challenges set by the pandemic are large hurdles to face. However, club owners and music producers can rest easy knowing that once they are open, the regulars are going to come back in because who doesn’t want to drink and dance?
