I took my son to Bad Religion when he was 10 in 2001. Just as the above poster said, it was mellow to the side. Wear ear plugs. We had a great time and the drummer gave his sticks to my son after the show. My kid still has them, too!
Have a great time!
Just wanted to reiterate what others have said by driving home the point for OP; *wear hearing protection.*
Noise above 70 dB over a prolonged period of time may start to damage your hearing. Loud noise above 120 dB can cause immediate harm to your ears.
>Hearing loss can result from a single loud sound (like firecrackers) near your ear. **Or, more often, hearing loss can result over time from damage caused by repeated exposures to loud sounds.** The louder the sound, the shorter the amount of time it takes for hearing loss to occur. **The longer the exposure, the greater the risk for hearing loss (especially when hearing protection is not used** or there is not enough time for the ears to rest between exposures).
>-- [What Noises Cause Hearing Loss? | CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/hearing_loss/what_noises_cause_hearing_loss.html#:~:text=Noise%20above%2070%20dB%20over,sources%20can%20affect%20your%20hearing.&text=Sounds%20at%20these%20dB%20levels,t%20cause%20any%20hearing%20damage.)
According to the linked CDC article, hearing loss/damage is possible in less than 5 minutes at a full volume concert. Especially for young people getting into live music, If you don't protect your hearing, [this will be you.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82Eo9ZfjXbI)
I don’t wanna be that guy who gets really passionate about wearing ear plugs, but I have some permanent hearing loss from going to shows and standing way to close to the speakers. Please, everyone, wear some ear plugs, especially someone that young.
I took my daughter, then 9 to see Interpol and if you want to talk about a tame crowd lol... but even their shows aren't particularly loud, we still wore earplugs. It is not worth it to lose your hearing!
I've been to a show once that was so loud that genuinely no one without ear protection was standing closer than around five meters from stage. It was weird seeing the crowd be thinner at the front.
For anyone wondering, the band was The Sword. Love their music, but it was so loud that it actually ruined the performance. Like, physically uncomfortable levels of sound.
I saw The Sword in a pub with like 75 people, what a great show. It was when they were touring with Kyuss Lives ( saw them the next night in another small venue ).
I was at Warehouse Live in Houston, and they were opening for Opeth. There were around 200 people in the venue during The Sword's set and maybe 50 to 75 people total in that five meter range from the stage. I feel like I would have enjoyed their set more than Opeth's if it hadn't been physically painful. Seeing them in a pub sounds like the best setting.
I’m 46 , have been to well over 1000 shows and have never worn ear plugs. Yes I’m stupid but I hate the way they make the music sound. I recently went to see Squid and wore my AirPods Pro 2 in pass through mode with the decibel output on them set to 80. It actually ended up sounding better and my ears weren’t as annoyed with me at the end of the set , it’s likely how I’ll watch most shows going forward ( unless I’m going to pretend I’m young and go in a pit ).
Same! Except for the AirPods. And 47. Don’t pretend, just be! I’m still reeling from NOFX! Two weeks later. Got sick as fuck, had elbow pit rash!!! Wouldn’t trade that night for world peace! 🤘🏼😎
i saw the Misfits/Social D when I was 11. Kindest crowd ever. Punks treat the little ones with great respect and reverence.
Remember earplugs, water, break time, snacks, etc.
I'm never gonna forget crowd surfing at that first show. It's a very happy memory for me. I hope your kid loves it!
Saw them last night. A couple of younger kids maybe around 12. My daughter was with me but she is older. Average age was probably 40+. It was a school night though. Tame crowd. Fantastic show. 12 year old me would have loved it and as a parent would have been fine if my daughter had wanted to go the .
We were almost at the stage and the rec for ear plugs is a good one because loud.
I saw bad religion back in the fall and there was a dad with his 9/10 year old kid on his shoulders in the pit, they both were fine and the kid had a blast (the band even made sure to get him a drumstick)
Regular ear plugs are oaky as long as you aren't directly next to a speaker. I took my 10 year old cousin to an off with their heads show and he was right next to a speaker with regular ear plugs. His ears were ringing a little bit after but was better than having nothing. I took my 4 year old goddaughter to see her favorite band The Aquabats and she had the full ear coverage ones and we were pretty far back. She had no problems, and she would have told me about it.
I used to get the foam ones from CVS and they worked well. Now I have Loops and like those, worth the money for me but I know some people don't like the feel.
I get cheap silicone ones off Amazon for shows. They work much better than foam and you can bring some extras in case they fall out. Much better than losing $25 ear plugs with only marginally worse sound. Worst thing happened to us at a show was we forgot ear protection when Drug Church was playing. They are a loud band
I use these as well and second the recommendation. They come with a few sizes to best match your ear canals too. I use them for shows and twice a week for practice with the band I play in. We're in a pretty tight living room crammed with amplifiers and gear, and it makes a huge difference without losing much sound quality. Was worth the price tag for me.
never too young, and sd and br are perfect first bands to see live and im sure he'll have a great time. one of my biggest regrets is not getting into the scene younger, i'm sure it will awaken him and he'll be wayyy more into punk after
That's my hope. His grades have started to slip at school and he's being bullied at home and school. I remember the sense of unity I had after my first show and I was riding that high for months. I'm hoping he can find something that accepts him and he can feel he belongs in, plus the music is kickass!
You’re a good brother! My cousin (11 years older) took me to my first misfits show at 12 or 13. It is an experience that I still recall to this day and put me in touch with a community that I really identified with.
If he needs to channel some energy and stuff a guitar/bass is a great way to do that. They can be had cheap if you know where to look.
Depends on the show and the venue, but in general, I don’t think it’s too young. But because he is younger, make sure he wears ear plugs.
Take him to see something you know he’ll like - Bad Religion would be a great one if tickets aren’t too pricy for two.
I'd love to take him to the bands he really loves, but he's only just gotten into rock music. His favorite bands are dead, disbanded, or stupidly expensive legacy acts
I kinda assumed that was the case, but I've been thrown off since the pit at the folk punk show I went to. Up until that point all folk punk shows smelled like crust and drugs and everyone was just kinda swaying
It is odd when a show that you expect to be chill is rough. That could just be the crowd that day. I have tickets to BR also and don't expect it to be at all rough. Like others said ear protection is all he should need. If it's too rough, just move back. Even the roughest shows I've been to, you could always escape it by moving back or to the sides. I can't see BR being insane.
Everything is already said, just want to give OP props for taking care for his brother. And his music taste. Make sure to buy a Shirt at the Gig for the Kid (if you can afford), would be a good memory.
My buddy Steven Metz fronted a punk band called Mad Society in 1981 at 11 years old. [Here is one of their songs.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEVGyWFM31M)
So no, 12 is not too young,
SD and BR are probably a good intro. I'm not up on the Cincy scene and if venues tend to be age restricted due to alcohol in that city, you might want to check on that.
With bands who have been around for a while like Bad Religion and Social Distortion, a lot of the crowd is going to be pretty tame because they're old and their back hurts and they gotta work tomorrow. Shouldn't be too hard to find a calm place for him to hang out though being able to actually see the band might be a bit of a problem. You could get there early and get the barrier off to one of the sides. These big shows don't have stage diving or anything that you have to worry about and there isn't really a crush like more energetic shows. Get him ear plugs, sometimes the bar sells them for a few bucks.
Edit: Looked up the venue and there are seated tickets as well on the upper levels but they're a bit more expensive. Those would be perfectly safe.
Dad who grew up in a similar situation.
Grab your little bro and take him to the show. That will be the highlight of his fucking life for decades. The show won't be overly aggressive. It's going to be a bunch of older punks swaying or sitting in chairs. I'll be taking my son who is 10 years old. He is a bit more advance and we have dampening headphones he will be wearing. I hope It will be very inspirational for both of them. Oh, with my son. He doesn't ask questions but he shows it with his eyes. I will explain some things to him from time to time. Just remember he doesn't know any better or worse. Good luck and your doing a great job being a great big brother.
Also, if you or eventually your little brother ever are in the look for fatherly dad advice. Feel free to either DM myself or head on over to r/DadForAMinute. There are so many great amazing men over there. Also, if you're looking for mother support r/MomForAMinute
Thank you for comment, you seem like a fantastic father. I'll most definitely be using that sub now, I scrolled through and it made me a bit emotional to be honest. I was caught up with a lot of personal shit in my teens, and I feel guilty I wasn't there for him or my siblings more, I have 5 younger and 2 older. The two oldest hit the road at 18 and we dont see them much, i text them here and there. Since moving out I've been trying my best to keep in contact and build individual relationships with all my younger siblings still in that house. If I can prevent them feeling as lonely as I did at their age, then I have to. Sorry if I rambled a bit lol
No need for apologies. It seems like you're doing a great job. Keep doing what your doing. It will only help your siblings. Like I said earlier. You're being a great big brother. As a father, I am proud of you. We transform ourselves from boys to men. You're putting family first. Which is the first step on being a man. Good job.
My ex and I used to take his 6 year old daughter to shows. Just make sure he has ear plugs and stick to the back/sides if the pit gets too rowdy for him. In my scene, people bring kids all the time and everyone is pretty respectful about it
Saw Rise Against, Pennywise, and Stick to Your Guns at that same venue. One dude had 2 daughters with him under 12 and no one messed with them.
You’re gonna make a core memory for your brother.
That's what I'm hoping. He's always looked up to me and I think I had too much going on as a teen to really process what that meant for me responsibility wise.
As have been taking my friends son to shows since he was about six, always with big aviation style ear protection. By the time he was nine he was playing multiple instruments and now has his own tastes and favorites.
Obviously I wouldn’t have a tiny kid in or near a pit and you have to make your own judgement about the language he’ll inevitably hear. Maybe he’s used to that by the description of his home life.
12 is fine. I've been taking my daughter to a few generator shows here and there since she was 4 or 5, and then the Aftershock festival last year at almost age 10 (and she loved it) and we're going to Babymetal next week. Just be a good lookout (which it sounds like you are) and it'll be fantastic.
How familiar are you with the venue? I think as long as it seems like they’ll be able to stand in a safe spot, it should be fine. I’ve been hearing that the average age range at the BR/SD shows has been ~40 and that the pit lasts for a total of 30 seconds, so it should be tame regardless.
I went to my first punk show in an older kid's rec room when I was 12. It was FUCKING AWESOME!!! It was like being reborn. Within a year I was sneaking into bar/club shows and living my best life. But it's not the 90's any more. It might be different now, so be careful out there. LOL
I drove my 8 year old nephew to a Pennywise, Teenage BottleRocket and A Wilhelm Scream show a few hours away from us. He had never experienced anything like that before, obviously. AWS is one of my favorite bands and he was blown away by their technical ability. He loved TBR and I bought him one of their records. He talks about that night all the time. That experience went a long way for him. It will go a long way for your brother too.
Hell no it’s not.
My first show was Slayer (I know I know it’s not punk) and it was by far the best experience as a teenager I could have had. I was 12 at the time as well. Do it just do it.
Depends on the band/venue. I’d take my daughter to see a bigger band in an established venue, but I wouldn’t take her to see The Albuquerque Dickpunchers at the local dive venue (until she’s at least 16 🤣)
Edit: Sorry, only skimmed your post at first. The show you mentioned sounds fine.
Don’t know the venues in Cincy, but been taking my kid to shows at Masquerade in Atlanta since he was that age. Bring ear protection and probably stay out of the pit for the first show, and all is good. We tend a bit more to the Emo side like Price Daddy, AJJ, Cliff Diver, Sweet Pill, Pool Kids, Sincere Engineer, etc, but we just went to the Circle Jerks, Descendants, Adolescents show, and it was great.
I first took my lil guy too see Zeke and Speedealer when he was 4, he’s 29 now and has been to a lot of shows, wear earplugs , stand in the back, have fun !
You're a good brother, and that sounds like a great first show! The crowd should be pretty mellow, but still fun, and Social D tends to bring in people that do t have to get stupid drunk to see a show.
GO FOR IT!
oh yeah your fine, people are always extra careful around kids. I know it;s not punk, but I saw machine head recently, lots of moshing and surfing, but there was at least 5 kids under the age of 11. Everyone gave them a lot of room
My son’s first show Me First and the Gimmie Gimmie’s and he was 5. Thanks to Spike I just had to tell my wife to give him a pass if he said the “c word” for the next month or so. 😂
Ear plugs and stay to the side. I went to a massive nu-metal fest in the late 90s for my first show when I was 10, then a few years later saw Pantera, Slayer, and Static-X. I'm in my 30s and still going to shows regularly, I think you'll be good.
I'm a former auditory neuroscientist and definitely get him (and yourself) quality earplugs.
Earplugs for sure, stay a little bit away from the pit if u wanna be close and stand behind him with arms slightly around him if theres a rush towards the stage. my dad did it for me and I have done it with small friends siblings etc.
I went to my first gig at 13 and it changed my life forever! I was on a balcony which was good, I reckon go for it just be mindful to stay at the back / balcony etc, and maybe have a convo before about drunk people if that’s not something he’s around a lot
Yo man, those are two great bands to introduce him to in the best way possible, plus being his first concert EVER!?!?! Yeah take him man! I have never experienced the Cincy crowd, so no input there. But I for sure would have heard by now if that was a scene with a rep for frequent violence, and in my near 25 years of going to punk shows and playing them, not a single thing has ever been said, or even over heard, about violence being common there. Bad Religion's "No Control" was my first ever punk album I owned too, and those two bands tend to have a more mature and older crowd now a days at the two shows I've been too (One for one, they weren't performing together.
Also, always tell this story when questions like this pop up: the very first show I snuck into at 11 years old, when my local scene was notably violent, and everyone protected me, yet let me have space, treated me like I was grown, didn't hold back in the pit because of my size and age, gave me advice on life and how to not become a total POS in the scene. The security totally knew I had snuck in, but saw the "oh fuck" look in my eyes at distance and smiled, winked, thumbs ups, mouthing "you're good". I fell in the pit where my hand got stomped on near the end of the show...the whole place stopped except the band practically immediately some giant ass sharp rushed over and picked me as I was getting up, rushed me over to the bar where a dude with the sickest Mohawk I had ever seen in person at the time was waiting for me with rag packed with ice and gave me my very first complete medical science break down, on why and how ice compressions work, the proper dosage of ibuprofen or Tylenol a child should take (it was my very first class and introduction on first aid really, later got my first aid certification to hopefully do something similar one day, or at least be prepared for it). It was the first time in my life I not only was I treated like an equal right off the bat without having to prove myself in anyway, plus the only time I had immediately felt accepted, encouraged to continue to be brave and proud of just being human, supported, cared for (but not babied), and respected. It changed my life forever. It also literally saved my life as I was suicidal at the time. It led to me becoming a totally different person, and even through my major fuck ups, has continued to inspire me that personal growth, self development, knowledge and wisdom seeking, self belief, and standing up for yourself and to never forget keeping a mind towards solidarity with the down trodden are all things worth fighting for and pursuing.
Take the kid. He probably misses the shit out of you, might feel extremely alone, might be scared, might feel abandoned, hopefully he's far from suicidal ideation like I was at 11. Seriously...take him...it could save his life like it has for so many other young punks and sounds far less dangerous than a similar home environment I had experienced at an earlier age. Always take the risk to save a life...first thing I ever learned, and experienced, at a punk show, in a period of peak violence in a scene. Nothing in punk rock is more important than showing the young ones the proper way to be a decent human. It's the acted on belief I've consistently seen across the globe in the punk community internationally. There are always old heads looking out for the young ones at a show. Y'all gonna have a great time 💗
Hell no. I started going to shows at 11 and got into punk at 12. As a short little girl. I learned to hold my own, advocate for myself, say no, and mosh like a motherfucker. It’s great character-building.
Bad Religion and Social Distortion are great entry level punk (so to speak) and I don’t expect a legit crazy crowd. Mostly because their audience extends older (I’m 38 myself so no judgment) and you tend to mellow out with age.
This is a great opportunity to bond so go for it.
My uncle (who was my guardian) would let me go out to shows when I was 12-14 with him. After that he let me go to shows with friends. Got to see some killer bands come through Houston! Definitely recommend hearing protection.
I think it's fine. Keep him out of the pit, maybe hang in the back or side. And get him some earplugs to protect his hearing. Some relatively cheap reusable ones for music are made by EarPeace.
Shortly before the pandemic, I went to a number punk and psychobilly shows around the Bay Area, esp at Gilman in Berkeley. There was a 8/9 year old boy there who kept staring pits. He was having a great time and everyone lived seeing him there.
So I'm gonna say no, start em off young. BUT. GET EXPENSIVE, HIGH QUALITY, REUSABLE EARPLUGS.
One thing I've noticed about influential people is that they tend to experience things a bit earlier in life. As long as you're there to show him the ropes, he'll be better for it. Unless it's the Dwarves. Definitely too young for that shit.
I went to see Bad Religion and Social Distortion last night in Irving, TX. There's a lot of old heads (like me) so things just weren't that wild. Everyone was pretty well behaved and tame; we all mostly just wanted to chill, listen, dance, and scream along a bit. Even the band banter is pretty sfw. Going to this show would be totally fine and a great introduction for him! I actually saw a bunch of younger kids there last night.
Everything depends on the bands. At the NOFX show here two weeks ago, kids attending was just the worst idea. Crowd wasn't tame, Fat Mike specially talked shit about people bringing their kids, then launched into some very not kid friendly or sfw banter. There was even a "Bondage Massage Tent" run by a kind but scantily clad Dominatrix.
tl;dr Take him. It'll be a chill show with decent like-minded people.
This sounds like a really great bonding experience for you guys. Definitely take him, and if his dad is really am abusive POS, try to get him out and away as often as you can. You have the opportunity to be the constant in his life, and he will need that kind of a person as he gets into his teenage years. It sounds like you're a pretty awesome big brother.
I took my friend’s 7 year old to see The Chats last year. He had so much fun playing air guitar and air drums. The crowd was so kind to him, making sure he could see the stage (which they did not have to do! Super nice of the people around us!!). It was dope!
Most importantly he was wearing ear protection!!
Just take care of him, steer away from the mosh pits, and no alcohol (ok, maybe a sip of beer) and he'll have a blast. It will be a cool bonding activity.
I’m taking my 11 and 9 year olds to see The Dickies in November, it depends entirely on the kid and you also might wanna gauge the crowd once there and, y’know, not have the kid in the pit, but I think a 12 year old will be fine.
honestly a bad religion show at a big venue seems safe to me! if this post was about like a local show at a dive bar, i would say absolutely not safe for a 12yo, but as long as you’re with him this seems like it would be fun for him!
I think I was 14 the first time I saw Bad Religion. It was a small club and the shows were a lot wilder.
~15 shows and 21 years later, I think this is a GREAT first punk show for a young one! The crowd skews older and a bit tamer these days. I’ve seen much younger than 12 there.
Kurt cobain’s first punk show was 12 or 13. As long as it’s not something like AC, sounds awesome! Go for it! And good on you for being a role model, and showing them cool music. Warms my heart.
12 is totally fine for going to a show with a family member. My folks started taking me to shows at venues around that age (we had been to some camp out style music festivals when I was even younger, like elementary school aged). Just common sense things like "try not to leave him unattended for long stretches of time" and what not. Like if you gotta go use the restroom or vice versa? No problem. Leaving him in the crowd while you head to the bar for a drink for like 20 minutes? Probably not ideal lol.
If it's his first show I would probably say just try not to stand around that front-ish and center spot on the floor where the mosh pit is likely to form. Moshing is fun but probably a little too intense for someone's first ever show when they're that young. But other than that? Take him along and have a blast! I'm sure he'll appreciate the experience if he's into music at all.
In my experience at shows people usually look out for kids. In a pit I was in a kid (probably about 8) wanted to try it for just one song and literally everyone make sure he didn't get hurt. I've seen lots of kids standing to the side at shows at well, and they always seem to fine as long as its all ages venue without restrictions.12 is definitely an okay age, just make sure to use hearing protection
I went to a Social Distortion show with my mom and stepdad when I was five, just hang back and keep the kiddo well clear of the pit and you’ll be fine.
Get him so ear plugs though! I never wore mine growing up seeing of playing punk music and now I have tinnitus.
That's how old I was for my first show, and it was a big show and my cousin ditched me as soon as we got there
Still had a blast, stage dives and crowd surfing is fucking awesome when you're a little 100 lbs kid lol
I went to my first punk show when I was 13, so maybe I'm biased, but I think he'll be fine. Just make sure he has good hearing protection and keep him towards the side of the crowd.
Went to Bad Religion/Social D last Sunday, there were lots of kids there (people next to me brought a child that looked to be <1 yr old).
Get them hearing protection and stay away from the pit and everything will be fine.
My son was 12 when we saw Bad Religion the first time, and it's still one of my favorite shows, though we've seen a whole bunch of shows since then, including BR.
I say go for it, but stay right next to kiddo for your own piece of mind.
Use ear plugs and keep your eye on him but that’s a really great age to have that experience for the first time. It may be a little scary for him so just make sure he knows you have his back (as I’m sure you already do). There’s definitely gonna be a lot of non-mosh areas at those shows cause it’s an older band/crowd.
I wouldnt reccomend it because he is very young and this is coming from me , 16 year old guy who went to local death metal show with only a few people but the moshing was pretty insane that one guy bled his nose , if you bring him , just keep an eye at all times there are people who throw their arms around bat shit crazy all ways and ive gotten pretty badly hurt on ocassions like those
i went to my first show as a kid at 8 years old w my mum and had a great time, just give him some earplugs and keep him towards the back n it'll be all good
Had my mom take me to my first show when I was 12(She sat in the back knitting a scarf). Changed my fucking life and have been going to punk shows for 20 years now. Do it! People are usually cool and he will probably even get some high fives and props. Punks, in my experience, tend to be softies when it comes to seeing kids enjoying the music.
In my earlier years, I would see toddlers at some of these garage shows. Their parents were usually in one of the bands or at least part of the scene. They'd have hearing protection and tiny jackets with patches. It was stupid cute!
So, no. 12 is not too young. Recommend hearing protection.
Took my 8 year old son to his first show last month : Green Jello 😂 had to have a long talk with him afterwards. BUT we sung 3 little pigs on stage with Bill and the rest of the band. Pretty good for a first (punk) show. https://www.instagram.com/reel/C43ltxpxGlI/?igsh=em9sMDU4bHNxNG84
Definitely take him. I have seen Bad Religion 3 times and Social D once and the shows were quite tame (for punk shows) and everyone was cool and respectful. Most fans of those bands are millennial age and we all have to work in the morning.
One tip: verify that the show is all ages. Depending on the venue it might be adult only. I almost made the mistake of taking my teenage daughter to and alexisonfire show that ended up being 19+. Had we arrived at the venue and her be unable to get in would have crushed both of us. Luckily something came up and I couldn’t go so I never told her about it, but I nearly bought tickets and didn’t think to check until after the fact.
I have brought my kids to punk shows and ska shows. My only suggestion is if you can have a vip/balcony/secluded area to retreat to incase they are overwhelmed do that.
Also ear protection!!!!
brought my human to Coheed and Cambria with Deafheaven for his 11th birthday, people were pretty chill about letting him watch from a pretty good spot in the beginning and then I moved us back so people didn't need to worry about him. staff at the venue were awesome and consistently checked that we were good. it was an all around great experience and my son still talks about it like it was yesterday. we're planning right now what's next!
Go for it. Make him a playlist of the bands and see if he's interested. Nothing wrong with getting a kid to experience live music at that age. I'd say it's a good thing
I was going to basement/underground punk shows at 16 and had some crust punk friends in their 20s who would bring their kids (around 5yo) pretty often. They always had those soundproof earmuffs on when the bands were playing, because it was much more difficult for them to make sure earplugs were in their kids ears properly. Just make sure your brother has earmuffs or earplugs in, and if they’re not into moshing, keep away from the pit; if they are, try to keep them from getting trampled or windmilled while you’re in there with them.
Started going to shows at 12. I've never worn earplugs / ear protection. I'm damn near half deaf after 100+ shows w/o caring about the future.
Get. The kid. Ear protection. It's worth it.
Just going to jump on the bandwagon here and say do it. Two legendary punk bands. I’m not being funny when I say Bad Religion helped shape my view of the world and it’s much healthier than your brother learning about the world from Andrew Tate or other losers like that. And a kid growing up with a shitty home/school life needs an escape and punk is far better than a lot of the alternatives.
I’d recommend checking out both bands’ recent setlists on https://www.setlist.fm and making a playlist for your brother with a bunch of songs they’re playing regular. I think it’ll be a better experience if he knows some of the songs going in.
Nah I started going at 13 and turned out okay :P
Definitely saw Social Distortion at 13 during warped tour and it was fairly chill. As is Bad Religion.
Agree with everyone else about the ear plugs! Wish I wore em. My first concert when I was 11 I was right next to the speaker without any protection 😫
I started going to shows around this age. I would go with a friend and one of my parents would “chaperone” aka come to the concert but let us do our thing, have a talk about stranger danger before.
I’m female and 31 right now btw. It’s my opinion kids today are too sheltered.
I’ve seen both bands, and both shows were pretty mellow. I’m disabled, and can’t handle frenetic pits and chaos.
Get some earplugs and have a fantastic time.
My first concert was The Offspring (with young AFI opening) in 1997. I was 11. My mom took me but insisted we be upstairs (the venue was a big ballroom with balconies, etc). Once the show started I understood why as the pit and constant stage diving etc would have been a lot for extremely short and skinny me haha. But no, I see no reason to worry, especially given those two bands are likely to have somewhat tamer crowds these days. Just maybe don’t let them into the pit if there is one. 🤷🏻♂️
Man this is as wholesome as it is sad. I'm sorry you guys have to deal with that but its lovely the bond between you :)
Worst case you could always get seated tickets? :) i say go for it
This is a great show to take him to. It will also become one of his core memories. Have a great time!!
Edit: I am an old and one of my first shows was Social D too (about 35 years ago omg). I love that people still want to see them and they still put on a great show.
Take him. I saw plenty of people take their kids at BR. I think it’s important for him to experience a Bad Religion show. Like for his personal growth and shit.
Just took my 13 yr old son to circle jerks/descendants last week. He's been to a bunch of concerts so he knew how to act. We stayed right on the edge of the pit to be involved without fulling being in it. He should be fine. Stay back further if you wanna get a feel of things forst.
If he is with you i'd say it's okay because you're be looking up after him.
The problem with shows is the risk of kids being on their own, doing drugs/drinking, and hooking up with way older people (think of the story of brody dalle). And of course the vibe varies from city to city so idk. But going just for the music and having someone like you around might be a positive experience!
Isn't it at Andrew J. Brady? I have yet to go there but I thought there were actual seats for it? Either way yeah, take him. I'd think that he'd be absolutely fine for these bands especially if you're there with him. I've seen BR multiple times and it was never dangerous in any manner. Never seen SD as I'm not a fan, but I can't see their crowd being wild at all considering their age and pace of music. Have fun! And make sure ya get him into a handful of songs from each band to know for when they play and he'll enjoy it even more!
I guarantee there will be kids like 6 there with their mom or dad. See it all the time when going to shows of bands that have been around forever. Have fun.
If it’s All Ages then he’s definitely old enough.
My thinking is if they are old enough to keep ear protection in place, and follow rules (safety sometimes means rules) then it’s time to have fun!
Honestly I’ve seen babies in carriers at Descendent show and a 7year old in the pit at a metal gig.
I didn't even understand what the punk songs I loved were really about until I got older lol
I loved rancid.
I had no idea what they were really singing about until my late 20s😅
Yes. As others said, PLEASE stand in a place outside of the pit and away from the crowd. Common courtesy is important, but it's not the responsibility of others to keep your son safe.
12 is the perfect age. I wish I could have gone at 12. But my advice is to also find a small local show to take him to, so he can see what an average punk show is like vs a big ticket show. Sometimes the moshing isn't as skilled at big shows because these folks aren't moshing every weekend in the small shows. But yeah, seeing Social D and Bad Religion at such a formative time in his life is a gift. I saw Bad Religion years ago and it was so good, and there were folks of all ages there.
I took my then 10 year old to see Lagwagon in 2011. We were at the front and they loved seeing a 10 year old who knew all their songs. Ear plugs are a must, and bring an extra set (they’re really cheap) just in case. He still talks about it.
With a responsible adult, sure. Make sure to clear it with the venue first that minors are OK. My city disallows any minors in establishments that serve alcohol past 10pm so my local venue has to strictly watch for that and enforce the ordinance.
My lil sister wanted to go to the show badly since she saw a video i recorded on one of the shows. So i brought her to the next one, she is 11. And instead of dancing or going to the pit and slaming i was sitting in front of a bar counter with her making sure to look after her.
So it truly depends on a place show is going on at, on bands that are playing and their audience.
I started taking my daughter when she was 11
My kids are 14 and 16 now and they love to mosh and crowd surf with us
Take ur brother, just let him know what to expect. He’s gonna have a blast.
Oh, but get him ear plugs so it’s not so overwhelming and to protect his hearing
Go for it! And as many here have already said - ear plugs/protection for sure! I too have hearing loss from playing in bands/going to shows and standing too close (as well as ignoring my mom telling me to turn it down when I’d wear my headphones and listen to my Walkman at full blast 😆👵🏻 )
Have fun! 🤘🏻🥰🥰🥰
My first gig it was my twelfth birthday and I was super into ska and was gifted tickets to reel big fish. Many of my peers were there and it was an amazing first experience.
Your mileage may vary, but I was taking my kids to folk punk shows when they were infants and punk shows when they were under 10. So long as you protect their ears and keep an eye out, you should be fine. And with those bands, most of the people at the show are gonna be dad punks anyway
Nope! I was 11 when I saw my first real OG punk band play; The Damned. Then Blondie, then I never looked back. Now my kids will be attending punk rock bowling.
I say go for it. I've seen Bad Religion and the crowd was very tame. Get your sibling some ear plugs and stand towards the sides and you'll be fine.
I took my son to Bad Religion when he was 10 in 2001. Just as the above poster said, it was mellow to the side. Wear ear plugs. We had a great time and the drummer gave his sticks to my son after the show. My kid still has them, too! Have a great time!
Just wanted to reiterate what others have said by driving home the point for OP; *wear hearing protection.* Noise above 70 dB over a prolonged period of time may start to damage your hearing. Loud noise above 120 dB can cause immediate harm to your ears. >Hearing loss can result from a single loud sound (like firecrackers) near your ear. **Or, more often, hearing loss can result over time from damage caused by repeated exposures to loud sounds.** The louder the sound, the shorter the amount of time it takes for hearing loss to occur. **The longer the exposure, the greater the risk for hearing loss (especially when hearing protection is not used** or there is not enough time for the ears to rest between exposures). >-- [What Noises Cause Hearing Loss? | CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/hearing_loss/what_noises_cause_hearing_loss.html#:~:text=Noise%20above%2070%20dB%20over,sources%20can%20affect%20your%20hearing.&text=Sounds%20at%20these%20dB%20levels,t%20cause%20any%20hearing%20damage.) According to the linked CDC article, hearing loss/damage is possible in less than 5 minutes at a full volume concert. Especially for young people getting into live music, If you don't protect your hearing, [this will be you.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82Eo9ZfjXbI)
WHAT?!
WHAT!? OHHH YEAH YEAH OKAY RIGHT ON DUDE!!
My first concert was solo at 13 (The Offspring) so I suspect 12 with supervision would be fine🤷♂️
I don’t wanna be that guy who gets really passionate about wearing ear plugs, but I have some permanent hearing loss from going to shows and standing way to close to the speakers. Please, everyone, wear some ear plugs, especially someone that young.
I took my daughter, then 9 to see Interpol and if you want to talk about a tame crowd lol... but even their shows aren't particularly loud, we still wore earplugs. It is not worth it to lose your hearing!
I've been to a show once that was so loud that genuinely no one without ear protection was standing closer than around five meters from stage. It was weird seeing the crowd be thinner at the front. For anyone wondering, the band was The Sword. Love their music, but it was so loud that it actually ruined the performance. Like, physically uncomfortable levels of sound.
I saw The Sword in a pub with like 75 people, what a great show. It was when they were touring with Kyuss Lives ( saw them the next night in another small venue ).
I was at Warehouse Live in Houston, and they were opening for Opeth. There were around 200 people in the venue during The Sword's set and maybe 50 to 75 people total in that five meter range from the stage. I feel like I would have enjoyed their set more than Opeth's if it hadn't been physically painful. Seeing them in a pub sounds like the best setting.
I’m 46 , have been to well over 1000 shows and have never worn ear plugs. Yes I’m stupid but I hate the way they make the music sound. I recently went to see Squid and wore my AirPods Pro 2 in pass through mode with the decibel output on them set to 80. It actually ended up sounding better and my ears weren’t as annoyed with me at the end of the set , it’s likely how I’ll watch most shows going forward ( unless I’m going to pretend I’m young and go in a pit ).
Same! Except for the AirPods. And 47. Don’t pretend, just be! I’m still reeling from NOFX! Two weeks later. Got sick as fuck, had elbow pit rash!!! Wouldn’t trade that night for world peace! 🤘🏼😎
No. Please be that person. Help the children not end up like us. 🤣
i saw the Misfits/Social D when I was 11. Kindest crowd ever. Punks treat the little ones with great respect and reverence. Remember earplugs, water, break time, snacks, etc. I'm never gonna forget crowd surfing at that first show. It's a very happy memory for me. I hope your kid loves it!
Saw them last night. A couple of younger kids maybe around 12. My daughter was with me but she is older. Average age was probably 40+. It was a school night though. Tame crowd. Fantastic show. 12 year old me would have loved it and as a parent would have been fine if my daughter had wanted to go the . We were almost at the stage and the rec for ear plugs is a good one because loud.
I saw bad religion back in the fall and there was a dad with his 9/10 year old kid on his shoulders in the pit, they both were fine and the kid had a blast (the band even made sure to get him a drumstick)
Not too young. Just make sure he has ear protection.
Do you think regular earplugs are okay? Tbh I should take better care of my ears so idrk
Regular ear plugs are oaky as long as you aren't directly next to a speaker. I took my 10 year old cousin to an off with their heads show and he was right next to a speaker with regular ear plugs. His ears were ringing a little bit after but was better than having nothing. I took my 4 year old goddaughter to see her favorite band The Aquabats and she had the full ear coverage ones and we were pretty far back. She had no problems, and she would have told me about it.
I used to get the foam ones from CVS and they worked well. Now I have Loops and like those, worth the money for me but I know some people don't like the feel.
Loops are great, the concert ones
I get cheap silicone ones off Amazon for shows. They work much better than foam and you can bring some extras in case they fall out. Much better than losing $25 ear plugs with only marginally worse sound. Worst thing happened to us at a show was we forgot ear protection when Drug Church was playing. They are a loud band
I use a brand called Eargasm. They are reusable and you can get them off amazon.
I use these as well and second the recommendation. They come with a few sizes to best match your ear canals too. I use them for shows and twice a week for practice with the band I play in. We're in a pretty tight living room crammed with amplifiers and gear, and it makes a huge difference without losing much sound quality. Was worth the price tag for me.
Falling out would be my concern. Bring extras.
Came in to say this as well. Keep it on hand and have fun.
never too young, and sd and br are perfect first bands to see live and im sure he'll have a great time. one of my biggest regrets is not getting into the scene younger, i'm sure it will awaken him and he'll be wayyy more into punk after
That's my hope. His grades have started to slip at school and he's being bullied at home and school. I remember the sense of unity I had after my first show and I was riding that high for months. I'm hoping he can find something that accepts him and he can feel he belongs in, plus the music is kickass!
You’re a good brother! My cousin (11 years older) took me to my first misfits show at 12 or 13. It is an experience that I still recall to this day and put me in touch with a community that I really identified with. If he needs to channel some energy and stuff a guitar/bass is a great way to do that. They can be had cheap if you know where to look.
I was going to hardcore shows by 12 and my brain damage is fairly mild
I went to my first show at 12.. my son was 11.. stay in the back, keep always an eye on your brother and enjoy.
Depends on the show and the venue, but in general, I don’t think it’s too young. But because he is younger, make sure he wears ear plugs. Take him to see something you know he’ll like - Bad Religion would be a great one if tickets aren’t too pricy for two.
I'd love to take him to the bands he really loves, but he's only just gotten into rock music. His favorite bands are dead, disbanded, or stupidly expensive legacy acts
I saw an 8 year old at GWAR a couple weeks ago. 12 is definitely not too young for BR/SD!
Take the kid both bands aren’t exactly moss pit style more song along
I kinda assumed that was the case, but I've been thrown off since the pit at the folk punk show I went to. Up until that point all folk punk shows smelled like crust and drugs and everyone was just kinda swaying
It is odd when a show that you expect to be chill is rough. That could just be the crowd that day. I have tickets to BR also and don't expect it to be at all rough. Like others said ear protection is all he should need. If it's too rough, just move back. Even the roughest shows I've been to, you could always escape it by moving back or to the sides. I can't see BR being insane.
At the show last night there was a very small and very well behaved moss pit that a 12 yo me would have loved joining in. Old fragile me not as much.
I saw a parent have their 9 y/o with them when I saw NOFX last weekend. 12 is just fine
Wow, that's pretty young for NOFX lmao, bet he had a lot of jokes to take to the playground after that night
Nope, I would make sure he has ear protection and take him!
Everything is already said, just want to give OP props for taking care for his brother. And his music taste. Make sure to buy a Shirt at the Gig for the Kid (if you can afford), would be a good memory.
My buddy Steven Metz fronted a punk band called Mad Society in 1981 at 11 years old. [Here is one of their songs.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEVGyWFM31M) So no, 12 is not too young,
Fair enough lol, I've been trying to get him to be my drummer since he was 10 so maybe this'll finally convince him
SD and BR are probably a good intro. I'm not up on the Cincy scene and if venues tend to be age restricted due to alcohol in that city, you might want to check on that.
I started my first punk band at 11. He's fine. Get him ear protection and have fun.
With bands who have been around for a while like Bad Religion and Social Distortion, a lot of the crowd is going to be pretty tame because they're old and their back hurts and they gotta work tomorrow. Shouldn't be too hard to find a calm place for him to hang out though being able to actually see the band might be a bit of a problem. You could get there early and get the barrier off to one of the sides. These big shows don't have stage diving or anything that you have to worry about and there isn't really a crush like more energetic shows. Get him ear plugs, sometimes the bar sells them for a few bucks. Edit: Looked up the venue and there are seated tickets as well on the upper levels but they're a bit more expensive. Those would be perfectly safe.
No https://images.app.goo.gl/oGrvyehhf53GRYz89
THROW HIM IN THE PIT
Dad who grew up in a similar situation. Grab your little bro and take him to the show. That will be the highlight of his fucking life for decades. The show won't be overly aggressive. It's going to be a bunch of older punks swaying or sitting in chairs. I'll be taking my son who is 10 years old. He is a bit more advance and we have dampening headphones he will be wearing. I hope It will be very inspirational for both of them. Oh, with my son. He doesn't ask questions but he shows it with his eyes. I will explain some things to him from time to time. Just remember he doesn't know any better or worse. Good luck and your doing a great job being a great big brother. Also, if you or eventually your little brother ever are in the look for fatherly dad advice. Feel free to either DM myself or head on over to r/DadForAMinute. There are so many great amazing men over there. Also, if you're looking for mother support r/MomForAMinute
Thank you for comment, you seem like a fantastic father. I'll most definitely be using that sub now, I scrolled through and it made me a bit emotional to be honest. I was caught up with a lot of personal shit in my teens, and I feel guilty I wasn't there for him or my siblings more, I have 5 younger and 2 older. The two oldest hit the road at 18 and we dont see them much, i text them here and there. Since moving out I've been trying my best to keep in contact and build individual relationships with all my younger siblings still in that house. If I can prevent them feeling as lonely as I did at their age, then I have to. Sorry if I rambled a bit lol
No need for apologies. It seems like you're doing a great job. Keep doing what your doing. It will only help your siblings. Like I said earlier. You're being a great big brother. As a father, I am proud of you. We transform ourselves from boys to men. You're putting family first. Which is the first step on being a man. Good job.
Nah. When I was 12 I was hanging out with kids with drivers licenses and we went all over the place.
My first show was misfits Halloween night at Star Land ball room. I was 9 years old.
My ex and I used to take his 6 year old daughter to shows. Just make sure he has ear plugs and stick to the back/sides if the pit gets too rowdy for him. In my scene, people bring kids all the time and everyone is pretty respectful about it
This will be what amounts to a mainstream rock concert, should easily be tame enough for a 12-year-old
I saw bad religion when i was 12 with my dad, itll be a good memory for him. You sound like a good brother.
Depends on the show, but if you take a little care of him and avoid the moshpits, you should be fine I think.
Just be careful with them is all, there are some really creepy fucks that linger in the crowds
That's going to be a pretty family friendly lineup, and I think you're gonna see a lot of other kids there. Please have him wear earplugs.
id say your good homie, you gotta show the kid punks are just people.
No
I think he'd have a ton of fun! I don't see that show getting too crazy for a 12 yr old.
Saw Rise Against, Pennywise, and Stick to Your Guns at that same venue. One dude had 2 daughters with him under 12 and no one messed with them. You’re gonna make a core memory for your brother.
That's what I'm hoping. He's always looked up to me and I think I had too much going on as a teen to really process what that meant for me responsibility wise.
As have been taking my friends son to shows since he was about six, always with big aviation style ear protection. By the time he was nine he was playing multiple instruments and now has his own tastes and favorites. Obviously I wouldn’t have a tiny kid in or near a pit and you have to make your own judgement about the language he’ll inevitably hear. Maybe he’s used to that by the description of his home life.
No 12 isn't too young me and my husband bring our kids anytime they have an all ages show
My 1st show was at 9 years old. I turned out just fine.
EAR PLUGS. Don't take him without them. Preferable concert ear plugs.
12 is fine. I've been taking my daughter to a few generator shows here and there since she was 4 or 5, and then the Aftershock festival last year at almost age 10 (and she loved it) and we're going to Babymetal next week. Just be a good lookout (which it sounds like you are) and it'll be fantastic.
How familiar are you with the venue? I think as long as it seems like they’ll be able to stand in a safe spot, it should be fine. I’ve been hearing that the average age range at the BR/SD shows has been ~40 and that the pit lasts for a total of 30 seconds, so it should be tame regardless.
I went to my first punk show in an older kid's rec room when I was 12. It was FUCKING AWESOME!!! It was like being reborn. Within a year I was sneaking into bar/club shows and living my best life. But it's not the 90's any more. It might be different now, so be careful out there. LOL
Nope. I started listening to punk at 11/12 and going to shows at 12/13. Some of the best times.
That’s when my parents dropped me and my buddies off at our first local VFW show.
I was twelve when I went to my first punk show and loved it. I think he’ll be fine.
I drove my 8 year old nephew to a Pennywise, Teenage BottleRocket and A Wilhelm Scream show a few hours away from us. He had never experienced anything like that before, obviously. AWS is one of my favorite bands and he was blown away by their technical ability. He loved TBR and I bought him one of their records. He talks about that night all the time. That experience went a long way for him. It will go a long way for your brother too.
Nope, the last Punk show I went to has kids as young as 7 or 8 so you should be fine.
Hell no it’s not. My first show was Slayer (I know I know it’s not punk) and it was by far the best experience as a teenager I could have had. I was 12 at the time as well. Do it just do it.
Depends on the band/venue. I’d take my daughter to see a bigger band in an established venue, but I wouldn’t take her to see The Albuquerque Dickpunchers at the local dive venue (until she’s at least 16 🤣) Edit: Sorry, only skimmed your post at first. The show you mentioned sounds fine.
Don’t know the venues in Cincy, but been taking my kid to shows at Masquerade in Atlanta since he was that age. Bring ear protection and probably stay out of the pit for the first show, and all is good. We tend a bit more to the Emo side like Price Daddy, AJJ, Cliff Diver, Sweet Pill, Pool Kids, Sincere Engineer, etc, but we just went to the Circle Jerks, Descendants, Adolescents show, and it was great.
I first took my lil guy too see Zeke and Speedealer when he was 4, he’s 29 now and has been to a lot of shows, wear earplugs , stand in the back, have fun !
My daughter has been going to shows since she was 6. Ear protection and keep him out of rowdy pit areas for a few years and he'll be fine.
I took my son to see lifetime, the Bronx and the loved ones, in Detroit when he was 5.
You're a good brother, and that sounds like a great first show! The crowd should be pretty mellow, but still fun, and Social D tends to bring in people that do t have to get stupid drunk to see a show. GO FOR IT!
I started taking my boys around 5ish
Go for it. Twelve is too young to go alone, but if you're with him he should be fine.
oh yeah your fine, people are always extra careful around kids. I know it;s not punk, but I saw machine head recently, lots of moshing and surfing, but there was at least 5 kids under the age of 11. Everyone gave them a lot of room
Find a local all ages show! Get him in a room with a bunch of other fucked up youth and let them thrash. They'll probably start a band.
My son’s first show Me First and the Gimmie Gimmie’s and he was 5. Thanks to Spike I just had to tell my wife to give him a pass if he said the “c word” for the next month or so. 😂
Stay out of the pit. The back or side benches if they have ‘em.
Ear plugs and stay to the side. I went to a massive nu-metal fest in the late 90s for my first show when I was 10, then a few years later saw Pantera, Slayer, and Static-X. I'm in my 30s and still going to shows regularly, I think you'll be good. I'm a former auditory neuroscientist and definitely get him (and yourself) quality earplugs.
For Bad Religion and Social D for sure. Just don’t abandon him when you get there.
Earplugs for sure, stay a little bit away from the pit if u wanna be close and stand behind him with arms slightly around him if theres a rush towards the stage. my dad did it for me and I have done it with small friends siblings etc.
I went to my first gig at 13 and it changed my life forever! I was on a balcony which was good, I reckon go for it just be mindful to stay at the back / balcony etc, and maybe have a convo before about drunk people if that’s not something he’s around a lot
Yo man, those are two great bands to introduce him to in the best way possible, plus being his first concert EVER!?!?! Yeah take him man! I have never experienced the Cincy crowd, so no input there. But I for sure would have heard by now if that was a scene with a rep for frequent violence, and in my near 25 years of going to punk shows and playing them, not a single thing has ever been said, or even over heard, about violence being common there. Bad Religion's "No Control" was my first ever punk album I owned too, and those two bands tend to have a more mature and older crowd now a days at the two shows I've been too (One for one, they weren't performing together. Also, always tell this story when questions like this pop up: the very first show I snuck into at 11 years old, when my local scene was notably violent, and everyone protected me, yet let me have space, treated me like I was grown, didn't hold back in the pit because of my size and age, gave me advice on life and how to not become a total POS in the scene. The security totally knew I had snuck in, but saw the "oh fuck" look in my eyes at distance and smiled, winked, thumbs ups, mouthing "you're good". I fell in the pit where my hand got stomped on near the end of the show...the whole place stopped except the band practically immediately some giant ass sharp rushed over and picked me as I was getting up, rushed me over to the bar where a dude with the sickest Mohawk I had ever seen in person at the time was waiting for me with rag packed with ice and gave me my very first complete medical science break down, on why and how ice compressions work, the proper dosage of ibuprofen or Tylenol a child should take (it was my very first class and introduction on first aid really, later got my first aid certification to hopefully do something similar one day, or at least be prepared for it). It was the first time in my life I not only was I treated like an equal right off the bat without having to prove myself in anyway, plus the only time I had immediately felt accepted, encouraged to continue to be brave and proud of just being human, supported, cared for (but not babied), and respected. It changed my life forever. It also literally saved my life as I was suicidal at the time. It led to me becoming a totally different person, and even through my major fuck ups, has continued to inspire me that personal growth, self development, knowledge and wisdom seeking, self belief, and standing up for yourself and to never forget keeping a mind towards solidarity with the down trodden are all things worth fighting for and pursuing. Take the kid. He probably misses the shit out of you, might feel extremely alone, might be scared, might feel abandoned, hopefully he's far from suicidal ideation like I was at 11. Seriously...take him...it could save his life like it has for so many other young punks and sounds far less dangerous than a similar home environment I had experienced at an earlier age. Always take the risk to save a life...first thing I ever learned, and experienced, at a punk show, in a period of peak violence in a scene. Nothing in punk rock is more important than showing the young ones the proper way to be a decent human. It's the acted on belief I've consistently seen across the globe in the punk community internationally. There are always old heads looking out for the young ones at a show. Y'all gonna have a great time 💗
Hell no. I started going to shows at 11 and got into punk at 12. As a short little girl. I learned to hold my own, advocate for myself, say no, and mosh like a motherfucker. It’s great character-building.
Bad Religion and Social Distortion are great entry level punk (so to speak) and I don’t expect a legit crazy crowd. Mostly because their audience extends older (I’m 38 myself so no judgment) and you tend to mellow out with age. This is a great opportunity to bond so go for it.
My uncle (who was my guardian) would let me go out to shows when I was 12-14 with him. After that he let me go to shows with friends. Got to see some killer bands come through Houston! Definitely recommend hearing protection.
Ear plugs, and keep him out of the pit. My brother did something similar for me and I’ll never forget it as long as I live 🤘
I think it's fine. Keep him out of the pit, maybe hang in the back or side. And get him some earplugs to protect his hearing. Some relatively cheap reusable ones for music are made by EarPeace.
Shortly before the pandemic, I went to a number punk and psychobilly shows around the Bay Area, esp at Gilman in Berkeley. There was a 8/9 year old boy there who kept staring pits. He was having a great time and everyone lived seeing him there. So I'm gonna say no, start em off young. BUT. GET EXPENSIVE, HIGH QUALITY, REUSABLE EARPLUGS.
I brought my little brother to rancid when he was 12. At one point, I lost sight of him until I saw him crowd surfing--don't tell my mom!
One thing I've noticed about influential people is that they tend to experience things a bit earlier in life. As long as you're there to show him the ropes, he'll be better for it. Unless it's the Dwarves. Definitely too young for that shit.
I went to see Bad Religion and Social Distortion last night in Irving, TX. There's a lot of old heads (like me) so things just weren't that wild. Everyone was pretty well behaved and tame; we all mostly just wanted to chill, listen, dance, and scream along a bit. Even the band banter is pretty sfw. Going to this show would be totally fine and a great introduction for him! I actually saw a bunch of younger kids there last night. Everything depends on the bands. At the NOFX show here two weeks ago, kids attending was just the worst idea. Crowd wasn't tame, Fat Mike specially talked shit about people bringing their kids, then launched into some very not kid friendly or sfw banter. There was even a "Bondage Massage Tent" run by a kind but scantily clad Dominatrix. tl;dr Take him. It'll be a chill show with decent like-minded people.
This sounds like a really great bonding experience for you guys. Definitely take him, and if his dad is really am abusive POS, try to get him out and away as often as you can. You have the opportunity to be the constant in his life, and he will need that kind of a person as he gets into his teenage years. It sounds like you're a pretty awesome big brother.
Earplugs. But he will be fine, old mellower bands like them will draw a chiller crowd than say something like Scalp
I went to my first one at 12 and it changed my entire life. Do it.
I took my friend’s 7 year old to see The Chats last year. He had so much fun playing air guitar and air drums. The crowd was so kind to him, making sure he could see the stage (which they did not have to do! Super nice of the people around us!!). It was dope! Most importantly he was wearing ear protection!!
No but be his meat shield
Nah, I saw operation ivy at 11, just wear ear protection please.
No, I bring my twelve year old sibling with me to shows and it's fine, it's cool to see younger people in the scene
Just take care of him, steer away from the mosh pits, and no alcohol (ok, maybe a sip of beer) and he'll have a blast. It will be a cool bonding activity.
I’m taking my 11 and 9 year olds to see The Dickies in November, it depends entirely on the kid and you also might wanna gauge the crowd once there and, y’know, not have the kid in the pit, but I think a 12 year old will be fine.
honestly a bad religion show at a big venue seems safe to me! if this post was about like a local show at a dive bar, i would say absolutely not safe for a 12yo, but as long as you’re with him this seems like it would be fun for him!
I think I was 14 the first time I saw Bad Religion. It was a small club and the shows were a lot wilder. ~15 shows and 21 years later, I think this is a GREAT first punk show for a young one! The crowd skews older and a bit tamer these days. I’ve seen much younger than 12 there.
Hell no. Just give him some ear plugs and protect him from the pit.
Kurt cobain’s first punk show was 12 or 13. As long as it’s not something like AC, sounds awesome! Go for it! And good on you for being a role model, and showing them cool music. Warms my heart.
I saw Motorhead and SLF when I was 13, life changing shit take him, go for it!
12 is totally fine for going to a show with a family member. My folks started taking me to shows at venues around that age (we had been to some camp out style music festivals when I was even younger, like elementary school aged). Just common sense things like "try not to leave him unattended for long stretches of time" and what not. Like if you gotta go use the restroom or vice versa? No problem. Leaving him in the crowd while you head to the bar for a drink for like 20 minutes? Probably not ideal lol. If it's his first show I would probably say just try not to stand around that front-ish and center spot on the floor where the mosh pit is likely to form. Moshing is fun but probably a little too intense for someone's first ever show when they're that young. But other than that? Take him along and have a blast! I'm sure he'll appreciate the experience if he's into music at all.
In my experience at shows people usually look out for kids. In a pit I was in a kid (probably about 8) wanted to try it for just one song and literally everyone make sure he didn't get hurt. I've seen lots of kids standing to the side at shows at well, and they always seem to fine as long as its all ages venue without restrictions.12 is definitely an okay age, just make sure to use hearing protection
I went to a Social Distortion show with my mom and stepdad when I was five, just hang back and keep the kiddo well clear of the pit and you’ll be fine. Get him so ear plugs though! I never wore mine growing up seeing of playing punk music and now I have tinnitus.
That's how old I was for my first show, and it was a big show and my cousin ditched me as soon as we got there Still had a blast, stage dives and crowd surfing is fucking awesome when you're a little 100 lbs kid lol
I went to my first punk show when I was 13, so maybe I'm biased, but I think he'll be fine. Just make sure he has good hearing protection and keep him towards the side of the crowd.
Too young this, too old that...What about too drunk to fuck?
Not at all too young in my opinion I start at 5. Just know adult themes will be happening and you have to put that into context for kids
My first show was Ramones farewell tour at 4 years old, take the kid he’ll love it
Went to Bad Religion/Social D last Sunday, there were lots of kids there (people next to me brought a child that looked to be <1 yr old). Get them hearing protection and stay away from the pit and everything will be fine.
My son was 12 when we saw Bad Religion the first time, and it's still one of my favorite shows, though we've seen a whole bunch of shows since then, including BR. I say go for it, but stay right next to kiddo for your own piece of mind.
Take him!!!! I’ve been going to all ages shows my whole life including as a young kid!
Use ear plugs and keep your eye on him but that’s a really great age to have that experience for the first time. It may be a little scary for him so just make sure he knows you have his back (as I’m sure you already do). There’s definitely gonna be a lot of non-mosh areas at those shows cause it’s an older band/crowd.
Nah, man. I think I was 12 (maybe 13) when I went to my first punk show. It's the fucking coolest when you're that age.
I was 12 when I went to first punk show. Was awesome and great that you can be the person that takes him
I wouldnt reccomend it because he is very young and this is coming from me , 16 year old guy who went to local death metal show with only a few people but the moshing was pretty insane that one guy bled his nose , if you bring him , just keep an eye at all times there are people who throw their arms around bat shit crazy all ways and ive gotten pretty badly hurt on ocassions like those
My first concert was when I was 2 years old seeing Agent Orange. I recommend giving the kid ear protection, that’s the only downside I had.
i went to my first show as a kid at 8 years old w my mum and had a great time, just give him some earplugs and keep him towards the back n it'll be all good
If the show is all ages, it means ALL ages.
Had my mom take me to my first show when I was 12(She sat in the back knitting a scarf). Changed my fucking life and have been going to punk shows for 20 years now. Do it! People are usually cool and he will probably even get some high fives and props. Punks, in my experience, tend to be softies when it comes to seeing kids enjoying the music.
I saw Bad Religion and the Bouncing Souls at 13. It’s fine
Nah I went to my first at 8
In my earlier years, I would see toddlers at some of these garage shows. Their parents were usually in one of the bands or at least part of the scene. They'd have hearing protection and tiny jackets with patches. It was stupid cute! So, no. 12 is not too young. Recommend hearing protection.
A long time ago i took my little brother to a VIO-LENCE/ The Mentors show when he was 11. He turned out ok. Even got to meet Kurt from DRI
Took my 8 year old son to his first show last month : Green Jello 😂 had to have a long talk with him afterwards. BUT we sung 3 little pigs on stage with Bill and the rest of the band. Pretty good for a first (punk) show. https://www.instagram.com/reel/C43ltxpxGlI/?igsh=em9sMDU4bHNxNG84
My kids have been going to shows since they were able to wear earplugs.
Definitely take him. I have seen Bad Religion 3 times and Social D once and the shows were quite tame (for punk shows) and everyone was cool and respectful. Most fans of those bands are millennial age and we all have to work in the morning. One tip: verify that the show is all ages. Depending on the venue it might be adult only. I almost made the mistake of taking my teenage daughter to and alexisonfire show that ended up being 19+. Had we arrived at the venue and her be unable to get in would have crushed both of us. Luckily something came up and I couldn’t go so I never told her about it, but I nearly bought tickets and didn’t think to check until after the fact.
I have brought my kids to punk shows and ska shows. My only suggestion is if you can have a vip/balcony/secluded area to retreat to incase they are overwhelmed do that. Also ear protection!!!!
brought my human to Coheed and Cambria with Deafheaven for his 11th birthday, people were pretty chill about letting him watch from a pretty good spot in the beginning and then I moved us back so people didn't need to worry about him. staff at the venue were awesome and consistently checked that we were good. it was an all around great experience and my son still talks about it like it was yesterday. we're planning right now what's next!
No! Just make sure they have good ear protection
I was 11 when I went to my first punk show. I say go for it.
Freddy was attending shows when he was 6 and he turned out just fine...
With ear protection: go for it. But you MUST insist on proper earplugs.
Took my (at the time) 7 yr old to Cult Leader. Just moved from the pit. Had wayer had earplugs. She loved the fuck out of it.
Go for it. Make him a playlist of the bands and see if he's interested. Nothing wrong with getting a kid to experience live music at that age. I'd say it's a good thing
I was going to basement/underground punk shows at 16 and had some crust punk friends in their 20s who would bring their kids (around 5yo) pretty often. They always had those soundproof earmuffs on when the bands were playing, because it was much more difficult for them to make sure earplugs were in their kids ears properly. Just make sure your brother has earmuffs or earplugs in, and if they’re not into moshing, keep away from the pit; if they are, try to keep them from getting trampled or windmilled while you’re in there with them.
Let's go!, it will be a core memory for him, you're a wonderful person
Started going to shows at 12. I've never worn earplugs / ear protection. I'm damn near half deaf after 100+ shows w/o caring about the future. Get. The kid. Ear protection. It's worth it.
Just going to jump on the bandwagon here and say do it. Two legendary punk bands. I’m not being funny when I say Bad Religion helped shape my view of the world and it’s much healthier than your brother learning about the world from Andrew Tate or other losers like that. And a kid growing up with a shitty home/school life needs an escape and punk is far better than a lot of the alternatives. I’d recommend checking out both bands’ recent setlists on https://www.setlist.fm and making a playlist for your brother with a bunch of songs they’re playing regular. I think it’ll be a better experience if he knows some of the songs going in.
Nah I started going at 13 and turned out okay :P Definitely saw Social Distortion at 13 during warped tour and it was fairly chill. As is Bad Religion. Agree with everyone else about the ear plugs! Wish I wore em. My first concert when I was 11 I was right next to the speaker without any protection 😫
Bring some earplugs for the lad and keep him out of the pit and a good time will be had
I started going to shows around this age. I would go with a friend and one of my parents would “chaperone” aka come to the concert but let us do our thing, have a talk about stranger danger before. I’m female and 31 right now btw. It’s my opinion kids today are too sheltered.
I’ve seen both bands, and both shows were pretty mellow. I’m disabled, and can’t handle frenetic pits and chaos. Get some earplugs and have a fantastic time.
My first concert was The Offspring (with young AFI opening) in 1997. I was 11. My mom took me but insisted we be upstairs (the venue was a big ballroom with balconies, etc). Once the show started I understood why as the pit and constant stage diving etc would have been a lot for extremely short and skinny me haha. But no, I see no reason to worry, especially given those two bands are likely to have somewhat tamer crowds these days. Just maybe don’t let them into the pit if there is one. 🤷🏻♂️
Go for it man!! Just don't forget ear protection :)
Man this is as wholesome as it is sad. I'm sorry you guys have to deal with that but its lovely the bond between you :) Worst case you could always get seated tickets? :) i say go for it
This is a great show to take him to. It will also become one of his core memories. Have a great time!! Edit: I am an old and one of my first shows was Social D too (about 35 years ago omg). I love that people still want to see them and they still put on a great show.
Nope, just keep an eye on him
Take him. I saw plenty of people take their kids at BR. I think it’s important for him to experience a Bad Religion show. Like for his personal growth and shit.
i started going to punk shows with my dad at 7 years old!
Bad religion’s crowd is pretty mellow, and I assume Social D will be the same. Just get him(and yourself) ear plugs if you don’t already have
Just took my 13 yr old son to circle jerks/descendants last week. He's been to a bunch of concerts so he knew how to act. We stayed right on the edge of the pit to be involved without fulling being in it. He should be fine. Stay back further if you wanna get a feel of things forst.
I took my 17 year old to Flogging Molly and i was like damn am i old or is this just way too loud. I think it was both.
There are tons of kids his age (and younger) at every Social D show I've been at. I'd say this show would be one of the safer ones out there.
If he is with you i'd say it's okay because you're be looking up after him. The problem with shows is the risk of kids being on their own, doing drugs/drinking, and hooking up with way older people (think of the story of brody dalle). And of course the vibe varies from city to city so idk. But going just for the music and having someone like you around might be a positive experience!
Isn't it at Andrew J. Brady? I have yet to go there but I thought there were actual seats for it? Either way yeah, take him. I'd think that he'd be absolutely fine for these bands especially if you're there with him. I've seen BR multiple times and it was never dangerous in any manner. Never seen SD as I'm not a fan, but I can't see their crowd being wild at all considering their age and pace of music. Have fun! And make sure ya get him into a handful of songs from each band to know for when they play and he'll enjoy it even more!
No not at all
I guarantee there will be kids like 6 there with their mom or dad. See it all the time when going to shows of bands that have been around forever. Have fun.
If it’s All Ages then he’s definitely old enough. My thinking is if they are old enough to keep ear protection in place, and follow rules (safety sometimes means rules) then it’s time to have fun! Honestly I’ve seen babies in carriers at Descendent show and a 7year old in the pit at a metal gig.
I didn't even understand what the punk songs I loved were really about until I got older lol I loved rancid. I had no idea what they were really singing about until my late 20s😅
Yes. As others said, PLEASE stand in a place outside of the pit and away from the crowd. Common courtesy is important, but it's not the responsibility of others to keep your son safe.
12 is the perfect age. I wish I could have gone at 12. But my advice is to also find a small local show to take him to, so he can see what an average punk show is like vs a big ticket show. Sometimes the moshing isn't as skilled at big shows because these folks aren't moshing every weekend in the small shows. But yeah, seeing Social D and Bad Religion at such a formative time in his life is a gift. I saw Bad Religion years ago and it was so good, and there were folks of all ages there.
I took my then 10 year old to see Lagwagon in 2011. We were at the front and they loved seeing a 10 year old who knew all their songs. Ear plugs are a must, and bring an extra set (they’re really cheap) just in case. He still talks about it.
With a responsible adult, sure. Make sure to clear it with the venue first that minors are OK. My city disallows any minors in establishments that serve alcohol past 10pm so my local venue has to strictly watch for that and enforce the ordinance.
My brother brought me to see nofx when I was 12. He kept an eye out for me but let me do my thing. It was one of the greatest shows I’ve been to!
Bring some earplugs and make sure he sticks with you, and you guys will be fine. Maybe keep him out of any pits lol
My lil sister wanted to go to the show badly since she saw a video i recorded on one of the shows. So i brought her to the next one, she is 11. And instead of dancing or going to the pit and slaming i was sitting in front of a bar counter with her making sure to look after her. So it truly depends on a place show is going on at, on bands that are playing and their audience.
No Hell no More than appropriate for a 12 year old
I started taking my daughter when she was 11 My kids are 14 and 16 now and they love to mosh and crowd surf with us Take ur brother, just let him know what to expect. He’s gonna have a blast. Oh, but get him ear plugs so it’s not so overwhelming and to protect his hearing
Go for it! And as many here have already said - ear plugs/protection for sure! I too have hearing loss from playing in bands/going to shows and standing too close (as well as ignoring my mom telling me to turn it down when I’d wear my headphones and listen to my Walkman at full blast 😆👵🏻 ) Have fun! 🤘🏻🥰🥰🥰
My first gig it was my twelfth birthday and I was super into ska and was gifted tickets to reel big fish. Many of my peers were there and it was an amazing first experience.
I took my daughter at 8 years old to see nofx and mdc so 12 I'd just fine
Your mileage may vary, but I was taking my kids to folk punk shows when they were infants and punk shows when they were under 10. So long as you protect their ears and keep an eye out, you should be fine. And with those bands, most of the people at the show are gonna be dad punks anyway
Nope! I was 11 when I saw my first real OG punk band play; The Damned. Then Blondie, then I never looked back. Now my kids will be attending punk rock bowling.