Last night, I was lucky enough to attend The Kanye West Glow In The Dark Tour. The show, which also featured the great sounds of Lupe Fiasco, N.E.R.D. and Rihanna, was simply spectacular. Keep in mind, we were at the Virginia Beach Amphitheater, so only part of the area/set is covered from the elements. The elements, last night, were in full effect as we had 30mph winds and sporadic thunderstorms. Nonetheless, the artists did their thing as the skies eventually came to calm later in the night.

So, you’re asking yourself, what do concerts have to do with the digital age? Well, it’s a semi-rant dealing with the fact that this venue (along with most, I’m sure) do not allow you to bring in digital cameras. I’ve felt strongly against this the past couple of concerts I’ve been to and as I’ve become fully engulfed in the digital marketing world. As technologies continue to evolve (multi-megapixel camera phones, iphone, etc), these venues/artists who don’t want to us to share our memories with our online communities will have a harder and harder time stopping it.

Now I know this may sound kind of petty (no it didn’t ruin my time at the concert) but it just goes to show you the resistance some people have to the evolving world of digital media. It deals with more than just our industry, it affects all industries. It’s their understanding of the digital age and knowing how the evolution affects their respective industry. Take advantage of the opportunities. Realize the benefits. How much more revenue would a venue take in if they were to sell cameras next to a beer or pizza stand? Either we continue to force the issue and find the means to digitally experience these concerts or accept it and take advantage of the change. The choice is theirs.