Maynard James Keenan Says Phone-Free Shows Let Fans ‘Be Present’ — And That Footage “Sucks Anyway”
UNITED STATES – As more artists take a stand against phone use during live shows, Maynard James Keenan — frontman for bands like Tool and Puscifer — is once again drawing attention to the growing movement for unplugged concert experiences.
In a new interview on the Serious Clownversation podcast, Keenan shared why his shows frequently ban phones and why he thinks fans actually benefit from the rule.
“It’s annoying and it’s distracting,” Keenan said. “The thing you’re getting on your phone sucks. It’s not a good representation. You’re not gonna go home and watch it.”
Why Maynard Keenan Bans Phones at Shows
Keenan has long been an advocate for no-phone concert policies, especially through his bands A Perfect Circle and Puscifer. At past shows, security has even escorted out attendees who violated the rule.
But Keenan insists it’s not about control — it’s about connection.
“We just kind of force the issue of just engaging with each other… watching the show… just being present,” he said. “Take a break from it.”
Fans attending shows for Tool or Puscifer are usually only allowed to record the final song, giving them a “souvenir” moment — but only after fully experiencing the set.
Others in the Industry Are Following Suit
Keenan isn’t alone in this effort. Artists like Jack White, The Raconteurs, Iron Maiden, and Sabrina Carpenter have all taken steps to encourage less phone usage during performances.
Carpenter told Rolling Stone that after attending a Silk Sonic show in Las Vegas (which had a strict phone ban), she was completely won over:
“I’ve never had a better experience at a concert,” she said. “Everyone’s singing, dancing, looking at each other, and laughing. It really just felt so beautiful.”
A Growing Push for Real-World Connection
Live music is one of the few remaining communal experiences where thousands of people come together in the same place at the same time. Keenan believes constant phone usage dilutes that magic.
As more artists join the push to remove distractions, venues are starting to provide Yondr pouches — magnetic phone-locking cases used at Jack White and Raconteurs tours — as a way to encourage immersion.
Even Iron Maiden’s manager Rod Smallwood made a public plea for fans to stop filming, later praising those who honored the request — and jokingly wishing a “sore arm” on those who didn’t.
Will Phone-Free Concerts Become the Norm?
With AI-generated setlists, TikTok virality, and digital distractions competing for attention, artists like Keenan are pushing back — not with technology, but with simplicity.
“It’s only three hours,” he reminded fans. “At the end we’ll let you pull [your phone] out… but until then, just enjoy being there.”
Whether or not every artist adopts this approach, it’s clear that concert culture is at a turning point, balancing real-world connection with modern-day tech habits.
Do you think concerts are better with phones off? Or do you want to record your favorite moments? Share your take at ChicagoMusicGuide.com and join the conversation.