Signs You Might Be A Fangirl (part i)

This post is not intended to cause any form of offence to fangirls, I am proud to be one myself.

• You're friends with other fans. No, I don't mean that your bestie also digs your fave band, I mean that you've met people through a shared interest in a band. Whether you've met them over Facebook, Twitter, or at a concert, you've been united by the fact that you both adore certain music, and you actually consider some of them real friends. My status: I just went through Hard Rock Calling's photo's from The Killers' show on Friday night...I know half of the people at the barrier and I don't even live in England. Enough said.

• You join an official fan club. People declare their love for their favourite band in many different ways, but one of the best ways is to join a fanclub. You may have access to special benefits such as pre-sales or merchandise, and it's a great way to meet other fans. My Status: I paid actual money to become an official Victim, and it's totally worth it.

• You know every single song they've ever released. Many people may be able to recite the tracklist of their favourite band's album, but a true fangirl knows every word of every B-side, bonus track demo, EP track, cover or live version ever performed by the band of interest. Okay, hold on a second, if you're under the age of 50, give yourself a pat on the back for even knowing what a B-side or an EP is. My status: 'Who Let You Go', 'A Crippling Blow' and 'Shadowplay' are all very familiar to me. Done.

• You've had direct contact with someone related to the band. While I'm not saying you should be BFF's with the frontman, fangirls often have some kind of contact with a crew member, backing band member, or anyone else associated with their favourite band. Bonus points if your friend suggestions on Facebook have ever recommended your favourite rockstar's brother-in-law...My status: i'm friends with everyone from Rob Whited to Lindi Ortega on Facebook, and have been known to speak to them. As for the brother-in-law thing, been there, done that.

• You've discovered new bands through your favourite band. Be it side-projects, opening acts, or recommendations from band members, all fangirls are likely to discover new music that you wouldn't have otherwise known, because of the band you love. My status: Neon Trees, Most Thieves and many others are great bands, that I would never have discovered if they hadn't been associated with The Killers in some way or another.