Fans are buzzing after a country rocker fired off a dry one-liner to a loudness complainer—“Sorry… didn’t mean to interrupt your conversation”—and the music discussion lit up. The consensus from seasoned show-goers? It’s a concert; expect volume, but protect your hearing. You can turn the decibels down for your own ears without missing the music. A simple pair of reusable ear plugs costs pocket change, tames the harsh edges, and still lets vocals and guitars cut through. Toss a pair in your wallet, bag, or jacket and you’re ready for arenas, clubs, or those echo-y sheds where acoustics get messy.

Another theme fans raised: etiquette. If your main plan is a catch-up with friends, why choose the middle of a set? Save the chat for intermission, the bar, or the parking lot. Artists, venues, seat location, and stage rigs all influence perceived loudness, and yes—some nights genuinely cross into “too hot.” That’s why smart prep beats post-show regrets and ringing ears. Want the best of both worlds? Plug up, face the stage, and let the performers own the room while you keep your hearing for tomorrow.