Ghost’s No-Phone Policy Sparks Long Lines and Heated Debate on the Skeletour

Ghost fans showed up ready to rock in Birmingham this weekend—but many ended up waiting over an hour and a half just to get inside the venue. The reason? A new no-phone policy that’s got people talking (and waiting).

The band recently launched a “phone-free” tour experience, locking fans’ devices in Yondr pouches to keep everyone focused on the music. The goal? Less Instagram scrolling, more eye contact with Papa Emeritus IV. But the Birmingham show exposed a problem: it takes time—like, a lot of time—to get thousands of phones locked up.

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What's the deal with the phone ban?

Frontman Tobias Forge said the whole point of the policy is to help fans stay present. He’s not trying to be a buzzkill—just wants people to enjoy the show like it’s 1999 again. In cities like L.A., the policy seemed to work. People were actually watching the show, not watching their screens.

But Birmingham was a different story. Long lines, annoyed fans, and a lot of “this better be worth it” energy in the air.

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Fans are split

Some fans love the idea. They’re sick of dodging phones every time they try to catch a glimpse of the stage. Others? Not so much. People want to snap a quick video, take a selfie, or just feel like they’re in control of their own device. And let’s be real—waiting 90 minutes in line isn’t exactly the best way to hype up a show.

Online reactions have been all over the place. Some are calling it a bold move. Others are calling it a logistical nightmare.

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Can this actually work?

The no-phone concept isn’t new—comedians like Dave Chappelle have used it for years. But a rock show with thousands of people? That’s a different animal. If Ghost wants this to keep working, venues are going to need more staff, better planning, and maybe a bit of patience from the crowd.

Either way, Ghost is standing by their decision—and honestly, it’s kind of punk to go against the grain like this. Just… maybe let folks pee and grab a beer before they stand in line for an hour next time.