Same folks up front

mace1229

Douglas12373 said:

I'm not a rail rider, not for PJ or any band. For me, its the worst spot in the house for sound and overall appreciation of the show. JMO, cool if you wanna be on the rail and shake Ed's hand, get a pick from Mike, drink some wine, whatever. Also, I love to have a seat.

As for the stories of "bullying" and not welcoming new folks into the pit, of course there is always some douchebag, but based on what I've seen and been told from folks I trust, the majority of the bitching about not being welcome down front comes from the assholes who barrel into the area when the lights go down and shove their way to the front past folks who have literally waited hours for their spot. So yeah they get told off and pushed out.

The stories I remember, from about 4 or 5 years ago, were not in the actual GA pit. But for the lining up. Signs are posted for no camping and no pre-lines, ad posting the time you may line up. !0c posted announcements like the ones shared here and state pre-lines will not be honored. So some people  follow those rules, show up when the line officially opens, and are told there was a pre-line by the people hanging out at the bar across the street and to go to the back. When they don't, some people would get aggressive until they did.
Those are just the stories I've read, never seen it. But I've heard about it more than once. 
I don't have the patience to camp out. But if I did and followed the rules by hanging out at some street corner near by and was told to go to the back of the line by some guy with no authority, I'd be pissed too.

mace1229

Chrrie said:

spankyMP said:

Bottom line is, the majority of fans and the BAND would love more variety up front. That said, I'm good five people deep in front of Mike after pre-gaming on my own schedule and strolling in about 30 minutes before showtime.

I don’t think the band has indicated this anywhere but any fan is welcome to line up for GA as its first come first serve. My first GA was San Diego 22 and I didn’t know anyone and just got in line. It was really that simple, no one made me feel unwelcome because I was new. 

Were you center rail? The stories I hear involve those on the rail in front of the band. If you're a few people back, it's a different story. I've had a great time in GA, only did it a couple times and I show up an hour before the show and am about 15 people deep.

on2legs

given2flym said:

on2legs said:

The random numbers would benefit the group of fans in GA as a whole by giving everyone a shot at the rail.  

Everyone currently has a shot at the rail. 

And they would with a random number as well.  Levels the playing field and benefits everyone. 

CopperTom

If people want to camp out for 24hours-ish, they deserve rail 

brewdog123

CopperTom said:

If people want to camp out for 24hours-ish, they deserve rail 

venues usually do not want this

given2flym

on2legs said:

given2flym said:

on2legs said:

The random numbers would benefit the group of fans in GA as a whole by giving everyone a shot at the rail.  

Everyone currently has a shot at the rail. 

And they would with a random number as well.  Levels the playing field and benefits everyone. 

Levels it for people who won’t put in the effort for it, yes. Tilts it in their advantage, vs how things are currently. 

Chrrie

mace1229 said:

Chrrie said:

spankyMP said:

Bottom line is, the majority of fans and the BAND would love more variety up front. That said, I'm good five people deep in front of Mike after pre-gaming on my own schedule and strolling in about 30 minutes before showtime.

I don’t think the band has indicated this anywhere but any fan is welcome to line up for GA as its first come first serve. My first GA was San Diego 22 and I didn’t know anyone and just got in line. It was really that simple, no one made me feel unwelcome because I was new. 

Were you center rail? The stories I hear involve those on the rail in front of the band. If you're a few people back, it's a different story. I've had a great time in GA, only did it a couple times and I show up an hour before the show and am about 15 people deep.

For that show I was between Ed and Stone, but I only showed up at like 1:30am the day of the show. The next show I went earlier and got a better spot. Since then I’ve been 1st in the venue in front of Ed. I’ve also been 25th, just depends on how early others go and how early I can go. Again there’s a perception that it’s one group of people like some kind of consortium but there’s multiple groups, couples, and some travel together but no one polices where you can be in line if you show up before everyone else. 

A GA entry lottery would give people who would never line up a chance to be on the front but it has its drawbacks too. A band I’ve followed for 25 years recently implemented it for the first 175 people and because there’s no effort involved it’s like the wild west. People save HUGE portions of rail for their friends who didn’t win the lottery. Others who would be happy in the back of the pit are up front having conversations, leaving and coming back throughout the show when songs they don’t like come on. Yeah you don’t have to line up but give me the PJ situation 100 times out of 100 because I care so much I’m totally fine with waiting 24 hours to be there. Also I’m super short. 

on2legs

given2flym said:

on2legs said:

given2flym said:

on2legs said:

The random numbers would benefit the group of fans in GA as a whole by giving everyone a shot at the rail.  

Everyone currently has a shot at the rail. 

And they would with a random number as well.  Levels the playing field and benefits everyone. 

Levels it for people who won’t put in the effort for it, yes. Tilts it in their advantage, vs how things are currently. 

When I say level the playing field I’m referring to the fact that some people have jobs, kids or traveling the day of a show that prevents them from lining up.  A random number allows everyone an equal shot and not just the 10-20 people who don’t have any obligations for 36 hours prior to a show.  It’s not always about effort. 

CROJAM95

My GA up close has been mostly positive, I see people who look out for others and they bond by spending the night…. I think that’s cool, I’m just not doing that. Was able to be 2nd and 3rd row center by lining up on time, morning of both msgs… 

im sorry but Alcohol is the bigger issue at shows… I have a few, but I e found that seated folks and when I’m seated, there are more assholes who spill drinks, puke or fight…. Except for msg 2022 fight, I haven’t seen too many shenanigans 

I feel when I do GA, I limit myself to a drink or 2… others do too, kinda have to … bathroom breaks are tough 

to each their own… but let’s not paint with a broad brush here

jwhjr17

on2legs said:

given2flym said:

on2legs said:

given2flym said:

on2legs said:

The random numbers would benefit the group of fans in GA as a whole by giving everyone a shot at the rail.  

Everyone currently has a shot at the rail. 

And they would with a random number as well.  Levels the playing field and benefits everyone. 

Levels it for people who won’t put in the effort for it, yes. Tilts it in their advantage, vs how things are currently. 

When I say level the playing field I’m referring to the fact that some people have jobs, kids or traveling the day of a show that prevents them from lining up.  A random number allows everyone an equal shot and not just the 10-20 people who don’t have any obligations for 36 hours prior to a show.  It’s not always about effort. 

Go Animal

Get_Right said:

I do not do GA anymore. But give me better seats! The rail people will do what they do. I am ok with it as long as they do not exclude fans to be there. No saving spots. The idea of a rail gang, which happens with some bands, is not cool. In fact I would hope that folks would want to share that experience with new people. 

There is spot saving. People taking extended breaks at their hotel to wash up, have a bite, and sometimes take care of work! Every single show. I know because they let me do it at REDACTED (and it was much appreciated).

It's all self-governed.

And yes, they do let the occasional friend in who DIDN'T put in the time, but only when doors are about to open. No one speaks up about it in line, because the hardcores are at virtually EVERY show.

A few guys (names withheld) help keep a list (not every time, only when needed). When rules are enforced by a venue (like Vegas), they make sure everyone is on the same page as to when/if they have to disperse, that they'll line up in the same order they were in before said line is moved (or dissolved).

There's also PJ crew who are friendly with them, considering the amount of time spent together. I mean, I get it.

I'm not entirely against it, I just think everyone should be upfront about it at this point. Like "yeah, we do this. Like it, or don't. Join us, and put in the early arrival time, watch our spot & we'll watch yours."

Why try & pretend it's not a thing anymore? We all see it every show. Meanwhile, 10C & the band turn a blind eye to it. And why not, really? They're still getting paid

Go Animal

on2legs said:

The random numbers would benefit the group of fans in GA as a whole by giving everyone a shot at the rail.  

I support this!

Hawk123

My only experience in GA, I joined my seat buddy who waited in line all day. This big guy a few behind who obviously knew a bunch of people said “if you end up in front of me, there’s going to be a problem” and was dead serious. A few other people showed up after and there was no issue, I guess I’m not part of the special privilege group. 

darwinstheory

I completely get what Jose is saying. But, things aren't going to change. These 2 shows oer city tour have become "events". With events becomes interest. GA lines bring more interest. More interest brings fomo. Fomo brings in that MONEY!

As mentioned earlier, the band is clearly okay with what is going on. They (Ed) go out of their way to acknowledge the clique. Give certain items (not talking tambos) to them as well. It adds a personal touch that shows he appreciates them being there. 

As far as shenanigans, I know for Vancouver 2, I lined up about 2pm. I was shocked at how few people were there in line. I had to verify it was in fact the GA line. Well, that number changed significantly but the time the line moved up near the entrance. I'd guess nearly 30-40% of the people in front of me, weren't there at 2pm when I got in line.

Get_Right

Go Animal said:

Get_Right said:

I do not do GA anymore. But give me better seats! The rail people will do what they do. I am ok with it as long as they do not exclude fans to be there. No saving spots. The idea of a rail gang, which happens with some bands, is not cool. In fact I would hope that folks would want to share that experience with new people. 

There is spot saving. People taking extended breaks at their hotel to wash up, have a bite, and sometimes take care of work! Every single show. I know because they let me do it at REDACTED (and it was much appreciated).

It's all self-governed.

And yes, they do let the occasional friend in who DIDN'T put in the time, but only when doors are about to open. No one speaks up about it in line, because the hardcores are at virtually EVERY show.

A few guys (names withheld) help keep a list (not every time, only when needed). When rules are enforced by a venue (like Vegas), they make sure everyone is on the same page as to when/if they have to disperse, that they'll line up in the same order they were in before said line is moved (or dissolved).

There's also PJ crew who are friendly with them, considering the amount of time spent together. I mean, I get it.

I'm not entirely against it, I just think everyone should be upfront about it at this point. Like "yeah, we do this. Like it, or don't. Join us, and put in the early arrival time, watch our spot & we'll watch yours."

Why try & pretend it's not a thing anymore? We all see it every show. Meanwhile, 10C & the band turn a blind eye to it. And why not, really? They're still getting paid

The issue is that not everyone in that group is friendly and kind. Keeping a list exactly what the band spoke about. And it is not the occasional friend. It is holding spots. It is not fair to those that did put in the time. And to be clear I do not really care, I prefer my reserved seats. 

ally12

BigRedd said:

It is not normal or healthy behaviour at all. They do it so they can get that one special moment from Eddie. It's so crazy to watch them fight for his attention.

Also we have grown adults leaving shows early so they can sleep on a curb for two more nights. I have seen people running in airports trying to get ahead of other people catching a cab to the venue. Its absolute bonkers. 

Do away with this set up that feeds these peoples toxic behaviour. 

Ed seems to love it though and feeds into the craziness 

But, I’m a Jeff girl 

on2legs

Go Animal said:

Get_Right said:

I do not do GA anymore. But give me better seats! The rail people will do what they do. I am ok with it as long as they do not exclude fans to be there. No saving spots. The idea of a rail gang, which happens with some bands, is not cool. In fact I would hope that folks would want to share that experience with new people. 

There is spot saving. People taking extended breaks at their hotel to wash up, have a bite, and sometimes take care of work! Every single show. I know because they let me do it at REDACTED (and it was much appreciated).

It's all self-governed.

And yes, they do let the occasional friend in who DIDN'T put in the time, but only when doors are about to open. No one speaks up about it in line, because the hardcores are at virtually EVERY show.

A few guys (names withheld) help keep a list (not every time, only when needed). When rules are enforced by a venue (like Vegas), they make sure everyone is on the same page as to when/if they have to disperse, that they'll line up in the same order they were in before said line is moved (or dissolved).

There's also PJ crew who are friendly with them, considering the amount of time spent together. I mean, I get it.

I'm not entirely against it, I just think everyone should be upfront about it at this point. Like "yeah, we do this. Like it, or don't. Join us, and put in the early arrival time, watch our spot & we'll watch yours."

Why try & pretend it's not a thing anymore? We all see it every show. Meanwhile, 10C & the band turn a blind eye to it. And why not, really? They're still getting paid

Reading that was like watching a GA line Ted Talk! 😂 Great explanation! 

Go Animal

Get_Right said:

Go Animal said:

Get_Right said:

I do not do GA anymore. But give me better seats! The rail people will do what they do. I am ok with it as long as they do not exclude fans to be there. No saving spots. The idea of a rail gang, which happens with some bands, is not cool. In fact I would hope that folks would want to share that experience with new people. 

There is spot saving. People taking extended breaks at their hotel to wash up, have a bite, and sometimes take care of work! Every single show. I know because they let me do it at REDACTED (and it was much appreciated).

It's all self-governed.

And yes, they do let the occasional friend in who DIDN'T put in the time, but only when doors are about to open. No one speaks up about it in line, because the hardcores are at virtually EVERY show.

A few guys (names withheld) help keep a list (not every time, only when needed). When rules are enforced by a venue (like Vegas), they make sure everyone is on the same page as to when/if they have to disperse, that they'll line up in the same order they were in before said line is moved (or dissolved).

There's also PJ crew who are friendly with them, considering the amount of time spent together. I mean, I get it.

I'm not entirely against it, I just think everyone should be upfront about it at this point. Like "yeah, we do this. Like it, or don't. Join us, and put in the early arrival time, watch our spot & we'll watch yours."

Why try & pretend it's not a thing anymore? We all see it every show. Meanwhile, 10C & the band turn a blind eye to it. And why not, really? They're still getting paid

The issue is that not everyone in that group is friendly and kind. Keeping a list exactly what the band spoke about. And it is not the occasional friend. It is holding spots. It is not fair to those that did put in the time. And to be clear I do not really care, I prefer my reserved seats. 

Don't worry, I'm not thrilled about what goes on, either. It's not fair at all. But no one seems to be doing anything about it, so they might as well be transparent.

And I love a good seat. MSG 2 was terrific. As well as Austin N1, and a whole slew of others.

But like @on2legs said, I would love a random chance opportunity for all involved. Would keep things fresh & lively, and allow for some fans who have kids (or obligations to them) to get up to the rail, when they have no way of doing so for the show they're going to.

And if they bring the kid? BOOM. Instant tambourine, lol.

spankyMP

Chrrie said:

spankyMP said:

Bottom line is, the majority of fans and the BAND would love more variety up front. That said, I'm good five people deep in front of Mike after pre-gaming on my own schedule and strolling in about 30 minutes before showtime.

I don’t think the band has indicated this anywhere but any fan is welcome to line up for GA as its first come first serve. My first GA was San Diego 22 and I didn’t know anyone and just got in line. It was really that simple, no one made me feel unwelcome because I was new. 

They literally implemented the 1,2, 9,10 random rule for this purpose and then went back to GA, come on man.

pjl44

Go Animal said:

Get_Right said:

Go Animal said:

Get_Right said:

I do not do GA anymore. But give me better seats! The rail people will do what they do. I am ok with it as long as they do not exclude fans to be there. No saving spots. The idea of a rail gang, which happens with some bands, is not cool. In fact I would hope that folks would want to share that experience with new people. 

There is spot saving. People taking extended breaks at their hotel to wash up, have a bite, and sometimes take care of work! Every single show. I know because they let me do it at REDACTED (and it was much appreciated).

It's all self-governed.

And yes, they do let the occasional friend in who DIDN'T put in the time, but only when doors are about to open. No one speaks up about it in line, because the hardcores are at virtually EVERY show.

A few guys (names withheld) help keep a list (not every time, only when needed). When rules are enforced by a venue (like Vegas), they make sure everyone is on the same page as to when/if they have to disperse, that they'll line up in the same order they were in before said line is moved (or dissolved).

There's also PJ crew who are friendly with them, considering the amount of time spent together. I mean, I get it.

I'm not entirely against it, I just think everyone should be upfront about it at this point. Like "yeah, we do this. Like it, or don't. Join us, and put in the early arrival time, watch our spot & we'll watch yours."

Why try & pretend it's not a thing anymore? We all see it every show. Meanwhile, 10C & the band turn a blind eye to it. And why not, really? They're still getting paid

The issue is that not everyone in that group is friendly and kind. Keeping a list exactly what the band spoke about. And it is not the occasional friend. It is holding spots. It is not fair to those that did put in the time. And to be clear I do not really care, I prefer my reserved seats. 

Don't worry, I'm not thrilled about what goes on, either. It's not fair at all. But no one seems to be doing anything about it, so they might as well be transparent.

And I love a good seat. MSG 2 was terrific. As well as Austin N1, and a whole slew of others.

But like @on2legs said, I would love a random chance opportunity for all involved. Would keep things fresh & lively, and allow for some fans who have kids (or obligations to them) to get up to the rail, when they have no way of doing so for the show they're going to.

And if they bring the kid? BOOM. Instant tambourine, lol.

I hereby grant you whistleblower immunity