Dating is longer about just swiping right because, for Indian Gen Z (also a few Millennials), the new-age romance formula is a mix of music, shared vibes, and real-world connections.
According to happn’s (dating app) latest survey*, 74 per cent of Indian Singles consider concerts their dream first date, while 67 per cent have mentioned that live music events make dating easier. As India is going big on concert culture of late (and PM Narendra Modi promoting it too), it’s clear that concerts aren’t just about the beats, fandom, or dressing up cool – they’re becoming the ultimate matchmaking hotspots.
Why concerts are the new dating ground
You have realised by now that dating in 2025 is way different from what it used to be, let’s say five years back. Dating today means creating memories, and experiencing things together, which could mean going to a puppy yoga session or maybe a painting session with your date. And guess what, the rise of activity-based dating is reshaping how singles connect, and music events are playing a crucial role. Whether it means vibing to Coldplay’s A Sky Full of Stars or singing along at an Ed Sheeran gig, or maybe discovering indie talent at Lollapalooza, concerts are proving to be the ideal setting for romantic sparks.
Karima Ben Abdelmalek, CEO and president of happn, says, “Gen Z is reshaping the dating landscape, and our research shows that music is at the forefront of their social lives. Indian Singles are keen on activity-based dates and looking for new icebreakers. With India’s music festival season in full swing, singles have a unique opportunity to break the ice and form connections in a vibrant, real-world setting.”
Dr Chandni Tugnait, psychotherapist and founder-director of Gateway of Healing, says, “When two people share a live music experience, they’re not just watching performances; they’re participating in a shared emotional journey that bypasses the usual dating hurdles. The concert environment naturally negates the pressure of constant conversation while creating multiple opportunities for genuine interaction.”
The power of playlist chemistry
So, what are the common traits that you look for when you bond with someone? If taste in music and artists is one of them, well, you are not alone. 48 per cent of Indian Singles admit that seeing a favourite musician in someone’s dating profile can spark an instant attraction. Music is no longer just a means of entertainment – it is a personality trait, an emotional trigger and, of course, a love language that can make or break things.
The survey also highlights:
- 74 per cent of Indian Singles use music as an icebreaker when meeting someone new.
- 79 per cent believe that music sets the mood for romance, proving that your playlist choices can make or break first impressions.
- 76 per cent love discovering new music with someone special, turning shared gigs into potential love stories.
Why music sets the tone
Absy Sam, a counselling psychologist from Mumbai, believes that live concerts create an unspoken language of intimacy.
“Concerts are basically the new dating thing because they foster a collective emotion—whether it’s sadness, happiness, euphoria, or nostalgia. The rhythm, the beat, and the shared energy create an unstructured space where people connect without words.”
She further explains that the sense of synchrony in live music creates a deep sense of connection. “When you’re experiencing music with someone, you’re not just finding a date—you’re finding someone who feels like home.”
Wait a minute! There is scientific reasoning too
Did you know live music triggers the release of oxytocin and dopamine? Yes, that’s true.
“The release of these hormones creates a natural high that people often associate with their companion. This biological response, combined with the shared appreciation for music, creates an instant connection that’s difficult to replicate in traditional dating settings,” says Dr Tugnait.
Final note
You will probably believe it now if we say that concerts are becoming an unexpected but ideal setting for romance. You can assume this from the very craze and enthusiasm people have around concerts in India as a whole (otherwise how do explain people flying to Abu Dhabi for Coldplay concert after not securing a ticket in India?). So, if that the new trend we are looking at… so be it!
**Please note: The survey was done on 2000 people from Tier 1 metro cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Bengaluru and Hyderabad)
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.indiatoday.in ’
