A fifth of over-50s now go on more nights out than they did three decades ago, according to new research. The poll of 1,500 people aged over 50 found that Generation X, who came of age during the late 80s and 90s rave culture, are still active, with 75% attending venues that play live music, such as nightclubs, bars, and gigs.
Nights Out and Musical Nostalgia
Those who attend nightlife events enjoy the sounds that defined their youth, from house, acid house, techno, and trance to disco and club classics. Four in 10 (38%) said they would love to see their favourite 80s and 90s artists perform live again. Nearly half (46%) reminisce about their most treasured memories being made on the dancefloor.
More than a quarter (27%) said live music and nightlife remain a core part of their identity, and 22% said music shaped the person they are today. The research, conducted by OnePoll.com, also revealed that 42% believe their generation doesn't get enough credit for pioneering the UK's rave scene. Furthermore, 19% are adamant they shouldn't have to stop just because they're older.
The Testlist Launch
Specsavers has created The Testlist, the first club guestlist unlocked by its free three-minute online hearing screener, exclusively for over-50s across the UK and Ireland. Legendary musicians Groove Armada, who have experienced hearing challenges firsthand, will headline the inaugural Testlist launch with an intimate DJ set at London's Phonox on Thursday 15th October. Their anthem Superstylin' – described as "a perfect soundtrack to a generation that refuses to retire from the dancefloor" – marks its 25th anniversary this year.
Tom Findlay from Groove Armada said: "We've been blessed to spend 30 years in the music scene, and nothing compares to that feeling of being in a crowd with sound so powerful you can feel it in your bones. Our generation was the first to rave and they're still on the dancefloor now. We put our ears to very good use and were way too busy having fun to think about the cost of it. I've experienced hearing loss and occasionally wear a hearing device so I can really relate to this campaign."
Hearing Health Concerns
However, 27% of those who have experienced a decline in their hearing said these struggles have reduced how often they go to live music events. Many have experienced ringing in their ears (42%), muffled hearing (22%), and temporary hearing loss (11%) after attending nights out. Despite decades of partying with stacked sound systems and thumping bass, 38% don't currently take any preventative steps to protect their hearing when attending live music events.
The research shows an appetite for change, as 22% said they'd be more likely to visit a venue if it was designed with their generation in mind, and 88% confirmed safe sound levels are important to them. As a supporter of the 'Listen for Life' campaign, a first-of-its-kind healthy hearing initiative for the music industry, championed by the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), the Testlist event will help give fans the best listening experience that doesn't exceed safe limits.
Sonam Sehemby, Specsavers hearing expert, said: "Hearing loss often develops gradually, making it easy to miss. In fact, according to The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP), nearly half of people aged 50 and over experience some degree of hearing loss, yet NHS data tells us people wait around 10 years before seeking help. Our free online hearing screener takes just a few minutes and is a simple first step. We're hoping to encourage more music fans to check their hearing, so they can continue enjoying the artists they love exactly as they were meant to sound."
