Singaporean Questions Acceptability of Loud Music and Videos on Public Transport
A Singaporean recently raised a concern on an online forum regarding the growing trend of passengers playing music and videos loudly on public transportation without using earpieces. The individual expressed frustration over the behavior, which they initially attributed to older individuals unfamiliar with technology or teenagers trying to showcase their music preferences. However, they noted that their daily commute now frequently includes people of various ages engaging in this disruptive behavior.
In a specific incident, the poster recounted an experience on a crowded train where a woman in her late 30s or early 40s was listening to a video titled "Greatest Hymns of All Time" at a volume audible to those around her. The poster humorously mentioned the temptation to counteract the noise by playing other religious songs, highlighting the irritation caused by such public displays of sound.
While acknowledging that some noise is expected during commutes, the poster noted that loud music and videos tend to be more bothersome than regular conversations at similar volumes. They sought to understand if others shared this sentiment or preferred listening to others' music over their conversations.
Responses to the post varied, with some users agreeing that the prevalence of noise-cancelling headphones reflects a desire for peace during commutes. One user remarked that the need for such devices underscores the annoyance caused by loud passengers.
Others shared their own experiences with inconsiderate behavior on public transport. One user recounted an encounter with a father playing "Baby Shark" loudly for his toddler on a bus, describing the experience as excruciating yet feeling guilty for being annoyed.
Several users exchanged strategies for dealing with loud passengers. One suggested playing classical music or opera at full volume in retaliation, noting that it often prompts the original offender to react negatively. Another user shared a tactic of openly discussing the content of videos being played, which they found effective in shaming the offenders into lowering their volume or using earpieces. Additionally, one user mentioned offering to share their AirPods with loud passengers, a suggestion that typically led to the individuals turning off their audio without becoming defensive.
The discussion reflects a broader concern about public etiquette and the balance between personal enjoyment and consideration for fellow commuters in shared spaces.