By Grace Ifunanya Ariwodo
The 2024 music festival season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with a mix of legendary headliners, emerging artists, and genre-defying performances.
Whether you’re into rock, pop, electronic, or indie, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a rundown of some of the highlights and must-see performances from the biggest music festivals this year.
- Coachella (Indio, California)
Coachella continues to be the gold standard for music festivals, and 2024 is no exception. This year’s lineup features a diverse mix of artists, headlined by *Beyoncé, who returns to the stage with a new, highly anticipated tour. *Kendrick Lamar is also set to perform, bringing his powerful lyrics and dynamic stage presence to the desert. Electronic music fans won’t want to miss Swedish House Mafia, who are reuniting for a special performance.
Must-See Performance: Billie Eilish is making her Coachella debut, and with her recent album topping charts worldwide, her set is expected to be one of the festival’s highlights. Her haunting vocals and introspective lyrics have captivated a global audience, making her performance a can’t-miss event.
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- Glastonbury (Somerset, England)
Glastonbury is synonymous with epic performances, and 2024 is packed with talent. The Rolling Stones are set to headline, marking a historic return to the Pyramid Stage. Taylor Swift will also be performing, showcasing her genre-spanning catalogue that’s seen her transition from country to pop, and now to indie-folk.
Must-See Performance: Arctic Monkeys are returning to Glastonbury after several years, and fans are eager to see them perform hits from their new album. Known for their electrifying live shows, this is sure to be a set that resonates long after the festival ends.
- Tomorrowland (Boom, Belgium)
Tomorrowland remains the premier electronic dance music (EDM) festival, attracting fans from all over the world. 2024’s lineup includes heavyweights like *David Guetta, **Armin van Buuren, and *Martin Garrix. The festival’s immersive stage designs and pyrotechnics make it a sensory experience unlike any other.
Must-See Performance: Charlotte de Witte is one of the most exciting names in techno right now, and her set at Tomorrowland is expected to be a high-energy, unforgettable experience. Her dark, pulsating beats are perfect for the festival’s nighttime atmosphere.
- Lollapalooza (Chicago, Illinois)
Lollapalooza’s eclectic lineup for 2024 is a reflection of its broad appeal. Headliners include *The Weeknd, whose mix of R&B, pop, and synthwave has dominated the charts, and **Foo Fighters, who continue to be one of rock’s most enduring acts. The festival also features a strong lineup of hip-hop artists, with *Tyler, The Creator and Megan Thee Stallion set to perform.
Must-See Performance: Phoebe Bridgers is returning to Lollapalooza with new material from her latest album. Known for her emotive lyrics and ethereal sound, her performance is expected to be a highlight for indie fans.
- Primavera Sound (Barcelona, Spain)
Primavera Sound is known for its cutting-edge lineups that mix indie, rock, and electronic music. In 2024, Tame Impala will be headlining, bringing their psychedelic rock sound to Barcelona. Rosalía, the Spanish sensation, is also set to perform, promising a hometown show that blends flamenco with contemporary pop.
Must-See Performance: Gorillaz are making their Primavera Sound debut, and their genre-bending music, combined with stunning visuals, is sure to create a memorable experience. Their eclectic style, which mixes hip-hop, electronica, and rock, fits perfectly with Primavera’s diverse lineup.
- Bonnaroo (Manchester, Tennessee)
Bonnaroo is celebrated for its laid-back vibe and diverse lineup. 2024 features Post Malone and Lizzo as headliners, both known for their energetic performances and charismatic stage presence. The festival also offers a mix of genres, including rock, hip-hop, and electronic music.
Must-See Performance: Kacey Musgraves is bringing her blend of country and pop to Bonnaroo, and her live show, which features stunning visuals and heartfelt performances, is not to be missed. Her recent albums have broadened her appeal beyond country, making her set one of the festival’s most anticipated.
- Reading and Leeds (Reading and Leeds, England)
These twin festivals continue to be a rite of passage for rock fans. 2024’s lineup features *Green Day, **The 1975, and *Stormzy, offering a mix of punk rock, indie, and grime. The festivals are known for their energetic crowds and iconic performances.
Must-See Performance: Doja Cat is performing at Reading and Leeds for the first time, and her genre-blending music that spans pop, rap, and R&B is sure to draw a massive crowd. Her high-energy performances and viral hits make her one of the most exciting acts on the lineup.
