Are Heavy Metal Concerts safe for TG fans?

[Emily Rose]

I've been to many heavy metal concerts over the years. I love old-school stuff like Judas Priest, Iron Maiden and AC/DC. But I've never been to a concert as Emily. I have tickets for Judas Priest in Detroit in March 2018. I'm wondering if it would be safe to go as my true self. On the one hand the lead singer came out as gay 20 years ago. On the other hand, these concerts are traditionally testosterone-fests. Any ideas or input?

[Diana Michelle]

Never been a Judas Priest fan but AC/DC is another subject.

While having its faults Detroit is a rather tolerant and accepting city and I lived near there a few years ago. Yes there have been incidents but the girls I know down there have always said they feel comfortable just about anywhere and they were treated with respect on those occasions they interfaced with the police.

Go and have a good time! Just remember as in any situation there is always the risk of problems just be aware. My personal philosophy is better a live coward than a dead hero in situations like that. If you act like a lady your odds greatly improve you being treated as one.

[Emily Rose]

Thank you for your input. This concert is at the Masonic Temple. Do you know anything about it? Any advice?

I haven't lived in Michigan long, so I haven't been all the way into Detroit--only to suburbs like Ferndale, Dearborn, etc.

[DeniseL]

I have never been to any of the metal concerts but here in Canada we do have both Federal and Provincialt regulations to give the LGBTQ community some protection.
Hope you are able to go and Enjoy


Denise

[Emily]

Hi Emily,

I can't speak for metal concerts in the states, but here in Canada, I have had zero problems (and I have been to a lot of shows!!!).

Best advise is try not to stand out, just blend in. The last thing you want is some drunk metal dude "finding out" and causing a problem. Not saying that anything will happen, but just to be aware that something could happen. Otherwise go and enjoy the experience and most of all, have fun!!!

[Diana Michelle]

I have been to the Masonic Temple many times for concerts and plays. I think my first time was to see Neil Diamond back in the early 70's. Hey I was 16 at the time! It is beautiful inside and a lot of work has been done over the years to restore it to its original grandeur.

It is not in downtown proper but in what they call Midtown, although us old timers know it better as the Cass Corridor. There was a time it was at best an iffy area however that has all changed and it is beautiful and coming alive with businesses and residential developments so it is a much safer area now. There are microbreweries nearby as well as other shops and restaurants. Shinola has its store and factory in Midtown. The Fox Theater is close to there as are Ford Field, Comerica Park and the new Little Ceasers Arena. As I said it is a much better area than even 10 years ago but as always be aware of your surroundings and be careful.

Like I said, go as you desire and have a good time! Most concerts I have been to the audience is more wrapped up in the spectacle of the concert and the music to care what someone else is wearing unless they are dressed far out of what one would expect. For what it is worth for a Judas Priest concert I would wear jeans and if I had one an old concert t-shirt.

[Robyn]

Regardless of where we go, the most important thing is how we carry ourselves (masculine or feminine). Take all factors into consideration, be yourself, but don’t instigate.

I’m an old punk rocker from the late 70s, and have a lot of history in metal as well. However, today I have an extremely broad taste in musical genres. Recently I found myself having a discussion with members from NWA and Public Enemy while wearing a skirt and makeup (and being quite white, lol). We simply discussed music and easily established mutual respect.

Stay cool, and enjoy the show… you should be fine in most places (at least from my experience).

[Diana Michelle]

I forgot to add Jack White of the White Stripes has a recording studio and music store of sorts in Midtown as well. I have also heard he has been known to pop in from time to time unannounced. Not sure if that is of interest to you Emily but it is yet another sign the whole area has undergone a metamorphosis.

[Amanda R]

The first real concert I ever went to was Oz Fest at the DTE Theater north of Detroit. It was definitely and eye opening experience for a small town girl raised in northern Michigan. I will grant you I was several years into transition but I never felt threatened and had a great time. From my experience I agree with everyone here. People there are more into everything else to worry about who else is there.

Go and have a great time Emily but we do expect a full report after.

[Deidre Taylor]

Emily go and enjoy! I was born and raised in Detroit and have lived in the area all my life and for the most part have never had any issues and those I have had have been minor. As others have told you concert goers are there for the music and concert, not to people watch. The first concert I went dressed to was Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band back in 1975 at Joe Louis. Been to many since and never had any problems.

On a side note seeing if you are going to be right there treat yourself to dinner at Mario's on Second Street. Best Italian food in the Metro Detroit.