Decibel Exposure Calculator
KISS Wembley 2015 concert is a live rock performance that registered a sound pressure level of 120 decibels, making it one of the loudest mainstream shows in recent UK history.
Why 120dB Matters
Sound measured in decibels (dB) follows a logarithmic scale: every increase of 10dB roughly doubles perceived loudness. A level of 120dB is the threshold where sound becomes painfully loud, comparable to a jet engine at take‑off distance. The World Health Organization public health agency that defines safe exposure limits for noise warns that unprotected exposure above 85dB for more than eight hours can cause permanent hearing loss. At 120dB, even a few minutes of exposure can lead to temporary threshold shift, ringing in the ears, or long‑term damage.
How the 120dB Reading Was Captured
The measurement was taken by an independent acoustic consultancy using a calibrated Sound Level Meter precision instrument that records sound pressure levels in real time. The device was positioned 30meters from the stage, at ear height, following the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61672 standard for Class 1 meters. The peak reading of 120dB occurred during KISS’s signature opening riff, when the combined output of the main PA system, sub‑woofers, and front‑of‑house monitors peaked.
Venue Profile: Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium, a multi‑purpose arena capable of holding over 90,000 spectators, has a reputation for hosting massive sporting events and music spectacles. Its open‑air bowl design can amplify sound, but it also allows noise to disperse more quickly than a fully enclosed indoor arena. The stadium’s acoustic engineers, led by John Miller senior acoustic consultant with 15years of experience in large‑venue sound design, had to balance the band’s desire for maximum impact with local council noise‑abatement regulations.
Impact on Fans and the Community
Fans reported an electrifying experience, describing the sound as “so powerful it shook the floor”. However, several local residents filed a noise complaint formal grievance lodged with the London Borough of Brent after the event, citing sleep disturbance and hearing discomfort. The complaint prompted a review by the council’s environmental health team, which confirmed that the 120dB peak exceeded the 115dB limit imposed for outdoor events in residential zones.
Comparing Other Notoriously Loud Shows
| Artist / Event | Year | Venue | Peak dB | Notable Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KISS - Wembley Stadium | 2015 | Open‑air stadium (90,000 capacity) | 120dB | Noise‑complaint hearings; increased fan‑ear‑plug sales |
| Manowar - Bangkok (Bangkok Rock Festival) | 2008 | Indoor arena | 139dB | Guinness World Record for loudest concert |
| Iron Maiden - Rock in Rio | 2003 | Open‑air stadium | 115dB | Prompted local council to tighten sound limits |
| Guns N' Roses - New York Madison Square Garden | 2011 | Indoor arena (20,000 capacity) | 122dB | Venue upgraded PA system for better control |
Health Risks of Extreme Sound Levels
Exposure to 120dB can cause:
- Immediate temporary threshold shift (TTS) - a short‑term hearing loss that typically recovers after a few hours.
- Acoustic trauma - a rupture of the eardrum or damage to hair cells if exposure is prolonged.
- Stress response - increased heart rate, blood pressure spikes, and heightened anxiety.
Professional musicians and sound engineers mitigate these risks with in‑ear monitors calibrated to max 100dB and by providing audience members with high‑fidelity earplugs that reduce volume without muffling the music.
Legal and Regulatory Landscape
In the UK, the Environmental Protection Act sets a 115dB ceiling for outdoor events in residential areas, measured over a 30‑minute average. Exceeding this limit can lead to fines up to £20,000 per breach and mandatory noise‑abatement measures. After the Wembley incident, the council issued a formal notice requiring future events to submit detailed sound‑management plans, including real‑time dB monitoring and pre‑approved maximum output levels.
What Fans Can Do to Protect Their Ears
Enjoying a high‑energy show doesn’t have to ruin your hearing. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Invest in a pair of musician‑grade earplugs (NRR 20‑25dB).
- Position yourself off the direct line of the main speakers; side‑stage spots are usually quieter.
- Take regular “quiet breaks” - step outside or into a lower‑volume area every 30-45 minutes.
- Stay hydrated; dehydration can exacerbate ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
- After the concert, give your ears a rest for at least 24hours before using headphones again.
Following these steps can keep the memory of the music vivid without the long‑term side effects.
Legacy of the 120dB KISS Show
The 2015 Wembley performance has become a case study in sound‑engineering courses. It illustrates the fine line between creating an unforgettable auditory experience and crossing legal safety thresholds. Music festivals now routinely publish real‑time dB dashboards online, allowing fans to monitor levels on their phones. In that sense, the KISS concert didn’t just break the volume ceiling; it helped the industry raise the bar for transparency and listener safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which concert officially hit 120dB?
The KISS concert at Wembley Stadium in 2015 recorded a peak sound pressure level of 120decibels, as measured by an independent acoustic consultancy.
How is decibel level measured at a live show?
A calibrated Sound Level Meter, placed at a standard distance (usually 30m from the stage) and at ear height, records SPL in real time. The meter follows IEC 61672 Class1 standards, ensuring accuracy for peak and average readings.
What health risks does a 120dB concert pose?
Exposure can cause temporary threshold shift, acoustic trauma, and a stress response. Repeated exposure without protection may lead to permanent hearing loss and chronic tinnitus.
Did the Wembley concert face any legal consequences?
Yes. The London Borough of Brent received a formal noise complaint, and the council later issued a notice requiring future events to submit detailed sound‑management plans that stay below the 115dB limit for residential areas.
How can concert‑goers protect their hearing?
Use high‑NRR earplugs, avoid standing directly in front of main speakers, take regular quiet breaks, stay hydrated, and give ears time to recover after the event.
Are there other concerts that have exceeded 120dB?
Yes. Manowar’s 2008 Bangkok show reached 139dB (Guinness World Record), GunsN’Roses hit 122dB at Madison Square Garden in 2011, and Iron Maiden recorded 115dB at RockinRio in 2003.
