Maluma Concert Sounds Alarm On Bringing Young Children to Loud Events: What Happened And Possible Outcomes

A recent incident at a Maluma concert in Mexico City has raised questions about the safety of bringing young children to loud live performances. The Colombian singer halted his show to publicly address a mother who had brought her one-year-old child without ear protection. The event's timing and the singer's comments have ignited discussions onlline about the risks of exposure to high decibel levels for children at concerts and festivals.

On 8 August 2025, during the final leg of his +Pretty +Dirty World Tour, Maluma stopped his performance at the Palacio de los Deportes. He spoke directly to a mother in the audience, questioning her decision to bring a one-year-old child to a concert known for its loud sound levels. The artist, who has a 17-month-old daughter, expressed concern over the child's safety, noting the sound was dangerously high. He advised the mother to consider ear protection for her child in future outings and criticised her for waving the baby around without safeguarding their hearing.

The video of the exchange quickly circulated online, sparking varied reactions. Some viewers appreciated Maluma raising awareness about hearing safety, while others felt the public reprimand was unnecessary or embarrassing for the parent.

The Risks of Loud Music for Children

Concert venues and sporting arenas often reach sound levels that exceed safe exposure limits. According to health authorities, sounds over 85 decibels (dB) can cause damage if experienced for prolonged periods. Many rock concerts hit between 90dB and 120dB, with some events like the Taylor Swift Eras Tour reaching 123dB. Outdoor sporting events, such as NFL games, can generate noise levels of up to 142dB — enough to cause hearing damage in seconds.
Children's ears are particularly vulnerable because their hearing is more sensitive and still developing. Continuous exposure to loud sounds can lead to permanent hearing loss, tinnitus, and other auditory issues. Signs of noise-induced hearing damage include ringing ears, difficulty hearing, needing louder volumes on devices, and asking to repeat things more often.

Protecting Children's Hearing at Loud Events

Parents can take simple steps to reduce the risk of damage. Earplugs, either disposable or custom-fitted, are effective and affordable options. Noise-cancelling headphones designed for children can also provide higher levels of protection. It's advisable to introduce these tools well before events, ensuring children become accustomed to wearing them comfortably.

When attending loud events, limiting the duration of exposure and taking regular breaks in quieter areas is essential. Ensuring children wear hearing protection and avoiding prolonged exposure can prevent long-term damage. It's also important for parents to monitor signs of hearing issues, such as asking for repetitions or turning up the TV volume excessively.

Are Family-Friendly Events a Safer Choice?

Many festivals and concerts now cater to families, offering lower volume settings and designated quiet zones. Events with a reputation for being child-friendly often provide safer environments for young attendees. However, even at these events, precautions are necessary. Consider the age and tolerance of your child when choosing which events to attend.

For younger children, smaller venues or neighbourhood festivals with less intense sound levels are preferable. Parents should decide whether they want to attend themselves or leave children in care, depending on the event's nature and their child's comfort. Preparing in advance and bringing appropriate hearing protection can make outings safer and more enjoyable.

Additional Safety Tips for Attending Loud Events

Beyond hearing safety, parents should remain vigilant about other risks. Large crowds increase the chances of encounters with alcohol and drugs, which can be confusing or frightening for children. Keep children close and talk to them about what to expect.
For festivals and longer shows, hydration, sun protection, and recognising signs of overstimulation are also vital. If children become overwhelmed or overstimulated, leaving early can prevent negative experiences. Planning breaks and knowing when to call it a day helps ensure the outing remains positive for everyone involved.