Superfans camp overnight ahead of The 1975 gig
THERE are popular bands, and then there are bands with followers so devoted that they are willing to brave a night under the stars in freezing temperatures just for the chance to make the front row.
The 1975 has been sending social media wild in recent weeks after embarking on a UK- wide tour with frontman Matty Healy making headlines for his up close and personal interactions with audience members.
More than 24 hours ahead of the Manchester outfit’s show at the OVO Hydro, a hardy group of superfans had already gathered yesterday afternoon in the hopes of finding themselves just metres away from the action.
The mood was jovial as gig- goers from as far away as New York bonded over their love for the band and hunkered down for a chilly night outside the venue.
Read on to find out what it is that makes a spot at the barrier so important to them.
Emily Sachs, 27, New York
“This is my eighth show of the UK tour. It has just been so fantastic the whole time that I love seeing it up close in person and getting to meet everyone too.
“I didn’t camp out for the first show but have since then.
“It’s been alright. As long as you have the right gear and a sleeping bag and stay warm.
“The band’s team is really good at making sure that we get our wristbands at a good time and we’re organised.
“It’s a fantastic show. I love seeing how it evolves.
“Some people might think it’s silly to see the same band so many times but every show I’ve been to has added something a little different.
“It makes it all really exciting.”
Connie Brown, 17, Glasgow
“We just checked the news and saw that it’s supposed to snow at around seven so we’re a bit scared about that. Hopefully it won’t be too bad.
“I’m actually a really big Harry Styles fan, but The 1975 are my second favourite so I do have a bit of a thing for them.
“My friend came all the way from Aberdeen and said she wanted to camp so I couldn’t leave her alone.
“It’s the first time I’ve camped outside the Hydro and they’ve been ok about it compared to camping outside Ibrox for Harry in the mud.
“I keep thinking in my head that the show is tonight and then
remembering it’s not until tomorrow. It’s a whole 24 hours but I’m so excited. It’s going to be so good.”
Sarah Fluit, 21, Amsterdam
“The 1975 is my favourite band, I’ve seen them so many times and really wanted to see them in Glasgow.
“We’re camping because we really want to get to the front row.
“I’ve just heard it’s meant to snow so I’m quite worried but we have a duvet so I think we’ll be good. “I’ve been to a lot of The 1975 shows but have never been at the barrier so that was my goal for this tour.
“We’re going to the Manchester show after this and I’m waiting for the European dates as well.”