GHOST’s 2025 World Tour: A Phone-Free Experience

During a recent question-and-answer session at HMV Vault in Birmingham, UK, GHOST’s frontman Tobias Forge discussed the band’s innovative decision to implement a “phone-free experience” for their 2025 world tour. This initiative requires fans to keep their phones secured in Yondr pouches throughout the concert, allowing artists and audiences to engage more deeply without digital distractions.

Initial Pushback and Considerations

When asked about any resistance to the phone ban from his team, Forge acknowledged that initial concerns were more about inquiry than outright opposition. “The first person you consult is your manager,” he explained. “I have this idea… and it’s met with some skepticism.” However, as discussions continued, his team recognized the potential benefits despite the logistical challenges. Forge emphasized that while many artists resent audience phone usage, few have taken the drastic step of enforcing such a ban.

The Motivation Behind the Ban

Forge elaborated on the experiences that led to this decision, noting a noticeable decline in audience engagement during performances. “At certain shows, you could see a sea of phones instead of enthusiastic fans,” he lamented. This shift, he argued, diminished the overall concert experience, transforming what should be an interactive exchange into a detached event. “If this is how it’s going to be, I’d rather not do it,” Forge stated, underlining the importance of an engaged crowd in GHOST’s performances.

Understanding Audience Behavior

Forge reflected on how individual audience members may not perceive their phone usage as disrespectful. However, he observed that the cumulative effect alters the atmosphere significantly, detracting from the energy that fuels live performances. “When you’re expecting a raging crowd and instead see a field of phones, it’s disheartening,” he expressed.

Positive Outcomes of the Phone Ban

When asked if the decision to ban phones had paid off, Forge asserted, “Absolutely. It’s been a life changer for the existence of the band.” He described the euphoric feeling walking off stage after the first show under this new policy, indicating a renewed sense of connection with the audience. Forge noted that many bands are now observing GHOST’s approach with interest, contemplating similar measures for their own tours.

Skeletour: A Theatrical Experience

Overview of the Tour

The U.S. leg of GHOST’s “Skeletour” world tour kicked off in July, supporting their sixth studio album, “Skeletá.” This tour showcases a significant evolution in GHOST’s live performances, marked by an ambitious, theatrical production designed by Tobias Rylander. The creative vision merges gothic symbolism with brutalist architecture, creating a visually stunning backdrop that enhances the rock experience.

Stage Design and Visual Elements

The tour’s centerpiece is the “Grucifix,” an imposing structure inspired by GHOST’s logo, serving as both a visual highlight and a lighting rig. The stage design incorporates elements reminiscent of cathedrals while integrating modernist features, resulting in a sacred yet rock-centric environment.

Multimedia Integration

This tour also marks a milestone for GHOST, as it is their first to feature a full-scale video production, bringing a new multimedia dimension to their performances. With intricate lighting design and video content, the “Skeletour” aims to create an immersive experience for fans.

Technical Innovations

Utilizing Yondr technology, fans can secure their phones in pouches that unlock only outside designated areas, ensuring an undistracted concert atmosphere. The pouches are magnetically sealed and can be opened at specific stations within the venue, allowing fans to enjoy the show without digital interruptions.

Conclusion

GHOST’s decision to implement a phone ban for their 2025 world tour reflects a growing desire among artists to reclaim the live music experience. By encouraging genuine audience engagement, GHOST aims to transform their concerts into unforgettable events that prioritize the connection between performer and fan. As other artists observe the success of this initiative, it could herald a new era of live performances focused on immersive and distraction-free experiences.

FAQs

What is the phone-free experience for GHOST’s 2025 tour?

Fans are required to secure their phones in Yondr pouches, preventing phone usage during the concert to enhance audience engagement.

Why did GHOST decide to implement this policy?

The decision stemmed from a decline in audience engagement observed during performances, with Forge expressing a desire for a more interactive and energetic concert atmosphere.

How does the Yondr technology work?

Fans place their phones in magnetic pouches that lock and can only be opened at designated areas or after leaving the venue, ensuring a phone-free environment during the show.

What can fans expect from the “Skeletour”?

The “Skeletour” features a dynamic stage design, incorporating theatrical elements, multimedia content, and a grand visual aesthetic that enhances the live music experience.

When and where is GHOST’s 2025 world tour taking place?

The European leg began on April 15, and the North American leg started on July 9, concluding on August 16, 2025, with performances in various cities across both continents.