Veteran performer Gary Valenciano has voiced his concern regarding concertgoers recording and uploading full concert performances online, stating that the practice weakens the value of experiencing live shows in person.
While acknowledging that fans naturally want to share brief highlights, “Mr. Pure Energy” pointed out that posting entire songs or whole sets online undermines the unique atmosphere of live entertainment.
”It’s not good,” Gary said when asked about the practice. “It takes away from the experience. I mean you can upload portions but entire songs, concerts? I don’t think that’s good.”
The OPM icon noted that while unauthorized recordings have long plagued the music industry, modern digital platforms have amplified the problem.
To address this, he pointed to strategies used by overseas venues, such as requiring audience members to seal their mobile devices in specialized locked pouches during performances.
”You can’t use them during shows,” he shared. “Hopefully, something like that can be applied here soon.”
Under these guidelines, attendees must step outside the main auditorium if they need to access their phones for urgent reasons.
The discussion comes as Valenciano prepares for “Gary V: Back at the Museum,” a 10-date residency at the Music Museum scheduled for October. The show will run across multiple dates throughout the month, including October 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, and 31.
Explaining his return to a smaller setting, the singer emphasized the personal connection smaller halls foster.
”It’s the feel. You can’t capture the same intimacy in a huge venue,” Gary explained. “Old school ang Music Museum and I love it there.”