Jolene enacts ‘no phone’ policy amid broader industry trend

Popular Miami nightclub Jolene makes a bold statement by prohibiting cell phone use inside the venue.

This decision reflects an industry-wide effort to bring back the roots of old school raves by encompassing loving communities, meaningful movement, and lasting presence. As technology advances and Westerners’ satisfaction with life continues to decline, it’s no surprise that social media use is directly correlated to rising rates of depression and anxiety. 

Now more than ever, people are looking to escape the demands of everyday and find a reason to put the phone down, let loose, and enjoy the magic of getting lost on the dance floor. For fans and artists alike, these times can be quite exhausting. What was once built around counter culture and freedom of expression has now become over-saturated with everyday life that focuses on how things look rather than how they feel. 

The pressure to keep up with posts and put out new content is higher than ever. So what can fans, artists, and event organizers do about it?  Recent online discussions describe Coachella as a glorified mall filled with influencer photo ops, with long-time festival goers rampantly complaining about changes in the scene over the last few decades. This social media-obsessed crowd isn’t just a Coachella problem; it’s happening all over the U.S.

Jolene is stepping up with a solution, rolling out a new policy that enforces cell phone camera coverage upon arrival. This encourages attendees to be more present, stop staring at the DJ, and find their groove on the dance floor. Jolene promotes freedom, reminding fans to “Stay Rebel”.

Melodic bass artist Inzo made a musical masterpiece when he released his track “Overthinker”, quoting Alan Watts “Most of us would have rather money than tangible wealth. And a great occasion is somehow spoiled for us unless photographed. And to read about it the next day in the newspaper is oddly more fun for us than the original event. This is a disaster. For as a result of confusing the real world of nature with mere signs. We are destroying nature. We are so tied up in our minds that we’ve lost our senses. Time to wake up.” 

Lane 8 was perhaps the modern day pioneer of phone-free shows, dating back to 2016 when he first started the concept, This Never Happened. These intimate experiences are bringing communities together across the globe, making a huge leap in popularity this past year, with Eventribe noting a 567% growth in phone-free listings from 2024 to 2025.

Jolene’s decision to cover cell phone cameras and discourage use on the dance floor ties into a larger industry movement centered around real change. This movement strives to make the scene a more positive place where real, human connections are made and dancing matters. This decision was well-received by fans and commenters and is expected to grow over the coming years.

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Raquel Dixit

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