DJ Sammy’s Dean and Gussy Cambell have now written an anthem for Phone-Free Nights. Fuelled by this ongoing debate, they are set to release a new main room house anthem, ‘Put Your Phone Down’. Inspired by their own experiences playing to crowds more focused on their phones than the music, The single’s playful yet urgent message is resonating with DJs and clubbers who long for a return to old-school clubbing energy.

Walk into almost any nightclub these days, and you’re likely to see clubbers with their phones in hand, filming snippets, scrolling feeds, and posting stories. The media has been abuzz with discussion about this growing trend, questioning whether mobile phones are ruining the magic of the dancefloor. As the debate heats up, it’s clear that this is more than just a passing fad—it’s a cultural shift that’s dividing opinion among DJs, clubbers, and venues alike.

One of the main criticisms echoed in recent features is that phones are distracting, pulling people out of the moment and into their screens. International DJ Solomun recently told WeRaveYou “I understand that people want to capture moments, but often at the cost of losing the real moment.” Many believe that the glare of screens and the urge to capture every beat for social media has led to a loss of genuine connection and spontaneity on the dancefloor. The atmosphere, once electric and immersive, now feels fragmented—with clubbers more interested in filming than feeling the music.
In response, some iconic venues have implemented strict no-phone policies, hoping to restore clubbing’s authentic spirit. London’s Fabric, Fold, and XOYO, Manchester’s Amber, Ibiza’s Pikes and Hi Ibiza, are just a handful of clubs leading the anti-phone movement.

Some of the real voices from the night include DJs and clubbers featured in the media highlight just how divisive the issue has become. XOYO’s DJ Ellie Prohan remarked, “When the phones are away, the crowd comes alive. You can feel the difference.” Meanwhile, some clubbers admit feeling torn—wanting to capture memories but not wanting to spoil the vibe. “I get it, but sometimes you just want to film your favourite track,” confessed one clubber at the newly opened Sankeys. Still, the push for phone-free nights is gaining momentum, with more venues and artists joining the cause.

As the debate rages on, the anti-phone movement shows no signs of slowing down. With venues enforcing stricter policies, DJs championing the cause, and tracks like DJ Sammy Deans’ ‘Put Your Phone Down’ setting the tone, clubbing culture may be on the cusp of a renaissance. Whether this marks the end of phones on the dancefloor or simply a new chapter in nightlife history remains to be seen—but for now, the message is clear: sometimes, the best memories don’t need a screen.