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In-ear monitors, or IEMs, are specialized earbuds that performers wear during shows. Unlike regular earbuds, these are custom-molded or technically designed to provide clear, accurate sound directly to the artist, helping them stay in tune and in time with the music. They also serve as hearing protection amidst colossal sound systems that can reach deafening levels.
Mariah Carey famously struggled with a faulty ear piece during a performance, emphasizing how dependent artists are on this technology. If a monitor fails or is compromised, it can throw off the entire show, making IEMs not just a convenience but a necessity for professional live performances.