Gen Z Man Reveals What Really 'Killed Club Culture' — And It's Not What You Think
Is club culture dying — or just evolving? According to 26-year-old Gen Z New Yorker Demetrius Fields, it’s not social anxiety or shifting generational interests that killed the vibe. In a viral TikTok video, Fields dropped a truth bomb that resonated with thousands: “Cameras killed the club.”
The Real Villain: Phone Cameras and Public Scrutiny
Fields says modern club-goers, especially Gen Z, are overwhelmed by the constant fear of being recorded. The freedom to dance, express, and let loose? Gone.
“If you go to the club and dance for more than three seconds, a circle of strangers will form around you... and they're all gonna pull out their flash,” Fields said. “Either way, they gonna post your [expletive] on Twitter and roast you.”
That fear of going viral for the wrong reason is creating what he calls “social media anxiety.” Instead of vibing to the music, people are holding back — afraid their cringe moment could become a meme.
The Cost of Clubbing Isn’t Helping Either
Even without the phone drama, clubs are becoming an expensive night out. Fields broke it down:
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💸 $30 cover charge
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🎧 $50+ if the DJ is worth it
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🍸 $15+ drinks (double if you're with a date)
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🚗 $70+ Uber ride
“Why would I do all that when I can spend $10 on snacks and binge The Sopranos from my overpriced apartment?” Fields joked.
Research Backs It Up
A 2022 Keep Hush survey revealed only 25% of Gen Z are still interested in clubbing — even less among millennials (13%). Rising costs, social anxiety, and changing preferences all play a part.
Similarly, the Night Time Industries Association found 61% of UK clubbers aged 18–30 are going out less than the year before. Only 16% said they go out later than they did in 2024.
Should Phones Be Banned in Clubs?
The debate is heating up.
Some suggest U.S. clubs adopt European-style solutions — like camera stickers or phone pouches (like at Berghain in Berlin). Others argue phones are essential for safety and connection.
Still, Fields’ video has struck a nostalgic nerve.
“I just want to go to the club and party like it’s 2008,” one TikTok user wrote.
“Everyone is so worried about being cringe,” said another. “I wish y’all could just have fun.”
Final Thoughts
Clubbing isn’t dead — but it looks different. Between rising costs and the pressure of going viral, Gen Z is redefining what a night out means. Whether that’s a return to low-key dance floors or curated, phone-free spaces, the vibe shift is real.
Want to party like it’s 2008 again? Maybe the answer is simple: Put the phone down.
📱 Do you think phones are killing the vibe, or do they make clubs safer and more fun? Let us know!
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