Jessica Lehrman

For over 10 years, I’ve been captivated by the intense devotion of fans in the front row at concerts—where their energy and passion are on full display. Growing up without a particular belief system, I’ve always been fascinated by the unwavering dedication people have for something greater than themselves. Concerts offer a sense of community, a shared moment of pure adoration that’s hard to find elsewhere in life.

In these front-row faces, I see a kind of worship—fans willing to be crushed against barricades, completely lost in the music and the connection it fosters. Whether it’s a rap show, Warped Tour, or a heavy metal festival, the devotion is the same. It’s not about why they care, but about witnessing that beautiful, blind love and the sense of belonging they create in the chaos.

I have written more about this love affair I have with the front row for VICE and The New York Times.