Chappell Roan delivered an epic ACL Fest performance that drew one of the largest crowds in the festival’s history (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Sunday evening at Austin City Limits turned into a pink paradise as Chappell Roan delivered the most talked about set of the weekend. Performing during the golden hour for a potentially record-breaking crowd, Roan’s captivating energy and pop prowess stole the show, despite warming up the stage for the night’s headliner, Tyler the Creator.
Roan’s 11-song set, packed with fan favorites like Pink Pony Club, Hot To Go!, and Good Luck Babe, was a masterclass in pop performance. With her infectious charm and undeniable stage presence, Chappell had the crowd dancing from start to finish.
Though Tyler, The Creator held the headlining spot on the American Express stage, it was Chappell Roan who truly headlined the hearts of festivalgoers. Only a few hundred people were spotted at other competing set during her performance, and there was a noticeable exodus from the grounds after she wrapped up. The overwhelming crowd response was so massive that some fans speculate it might rival the all-time ACL attendance record.
Roan’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular, and Sunday’s performance felt like a coronation. With her unique brand of empowering, fun, and unapologetic pop, she didn’t just play the Pink Pony Club—she welcomed everyone into it. Whether it was the glittering outfits or the pink cowboy hats, fans dressed to impress, knowing this would be a show to remember.
It’s safe to say Chappell Roan is galloping her way to pop superstardom, and after a performance like this, we can’t wait to see where she takes us next.
Check out our photos from Weekend 2’s most talked about performance below.
Among a diverse cast of amazing artists, Dua Lipa shined with her headlining set during Day 2 of the second weekend of the Austin City Limits Music Festival (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Day 2 of Weekend 2 at Austin City Limits (ACL) brought another day of incredible performances and unforgettable moments, with artists spanning genres from pop to hip-hop and rock. Despite the scorching temperatures reaching the mid-90s, the energy at Zilker Park was sky-high, especially as artists delivered standout sets across various stages. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable moments captured from the day.
Nico Vega Starting the day with an explosive set, Nico Vega electrified the crowd with their raw energy. Despite the absence of bassist Michael Peña, likely due to his busy acting schedule, the band didn’t miss a beat, keeping the crowd moving with their intense rock sound. Their passionate performance was a reminder of their prowess as a live act.
Valencia Grace Following Nico Vega, Valencia Grace captivated fans with her ethereal vocals and emotionally charged songs. Her performance was intimate yet powerful, showcasing her rising talent in the indie pop scene.
Lola YoungLola Young brought her unique blend of soul and pop to ACL, mesmerizing the audience with her deep, rich voice. Her heartfelt performance on the American Express stage was a perfect way to ease into the heat of the day, leaving fans yearning for more of her compelling sound.
Emei One of the best sets of the weekend so far, Emei took over the BMI stage with an unforgettable performance. Emei’s presence was undeniable, and her fiery performance cemented her as a festival favorite.
Teddy Swims Bringing a soulful twist to the day, Teddy Swims had the crowd swooning with his smooth vocals and heartfelt ballads. His unique blend of R&B and pop had everyone in the audience feeling every note, especially when he performed fan favorites like “Lose Control.”
Elyanna Up next was Elyanna, who delivered a stunning performance filled with Middle Eastern-inspired beats and ethereal vocals. Her blend of traditional and modern sounds created a hypnotic atmosphere, drawing in festival-goers from all over the park.
Remi WolfRemi Wolf brought the funk with her quirky and colorful set. Known for her energetic and eclectic performances, she had the crowd dancing non-stop with hits like “Photo ID” and “Liquor Store.” Her infectious energy was perfect for the hot Austin afternoon.
Benson Boone Rising star Benson Boone turned heads with his high-energy set, kicking things off with an unexpected bang—literally, as he did flips off his piano. His raw talent and engaging stage presence had the crowd pumped up from start to finish.
Vince Staples Rapper Vince Staples brought a change of pace, delivering his signature sharp lyrics and West Coast sound. His set was one of the most anticipated of the day, and he didn’t disappoint, captivating the audience with tracks like “Norf Norf” and “Big Fish.”
Renee RappRenee Rapp gave fans an emotional yet commanding performance. Her powerful vocals and relatable lyrics resonated deeply with the audience, creating a sense of connection that left a lasting impact.
Dua Lipa Closing out Day 2 was none other than Dua Lipa, the pop sensation who headlined the American Express stage. Dua gave fans a sneak peek of what to expect on her upcoming world tour, performing hits like “Levitating” and “Don’t Start Now” with slick choreography and stunning visuals. As the night cooled down, her high-energy set was the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable day.
Day 2 was packed with diverse performances, leaving festival-goers excited for what’s to come on Day 3 of ACL’s second weekend. Stay tuned for more photo highlights from the weekend!
Carin Leon was just one of many top performances who helped kick off Day 1 of the second weekend of the Austin City Limits Music Festival (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
The second weekend of Austin City Limits Music Festival kicked off with a vibrant mix of genres, from synth-pop to country and rap, all set against the scenic backdrop of Zilker Park in Austin, TX. Day 1 brought fans unforgettable performances from a diverse lineup that spanned multiple stages, leaving festival-goers buzzing with excitement.
Here’s a look at some of the highlights from the day.
St. Lucia ACL fans enjoyed the electrifying sounds of St. Lucia, whose synth-pop anthems brought a nostalgic ’80s vibe to the stage. Their lively performance, complete with shimmering synths and vibrant energy, set a joyous tone for the day. Fans swayed to the beat of their hits like “Elevate,” with the Austin sun setting the perfect scene.
Whookilledkenny Rising Texas hip-hop artist Whookilledkenny kept things fresh with a high-energy performance at the BMI stage that resonated with the crowd. The energetic rapper delivered rapid-fire bars and bass-heavy beats that had fans jumping along throughout the set, a perfect representation of the homegrown talent featured at ACL this year.
Leon Bridges Singer-songwriter Leon Bridges took the crowd on a soulful journey. His smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics, especially on hits like “River” and “Texas Sun,” had the audience mesmerized. Bridges, a Texas native, gave a nod to his roots and had everyone swaying to his throwback sound that blends classic soul with a modern twist.
Dasha In a full circle moment, Dasha brought her unique blend of pop and country to the festival, captivating attendees with tracks like “Nervous” and “Talk” and of course her massive single “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’)”. Her emotive performance stood out, showcasing her talent as one of the many emerging artists at ACL 2024.
Carin Leon For fans of Latin music, Carin Leon provided a dynamic performance. His fusion of regional Mexican sounds with modern influences had the crowd dancing and singing along, particularly during his popular track “Me La Avente.” It was a standout set that celebrated the diverse musical cultures represented at ACL.
Jeezy Rap icon Jeezy brought the heat with a hard-hitting performance that included fan-favorites like “Put On” and “Soul Survivor.” His presence on stage was commanding, delivering hit after hit to an energized crowd that rapped along to every word. ACL 2024 proved once again that hip-hop continues to have a strong presence at the festival.
Chris Stapleton with Special Guest Willie Nelson The headlining act of the night, Chris Stapleton, gave a show-stopping performance that was the perfect cap to Day 1. With his signature gravelly voice and expert guitar work, Stapleton belted out hits like “Tennessee Whiskey” and “White Horse.” The highlight of the night, though, came when country legend Willie Nelson made a surprise appearance to kick off the set. It was a magical moment that left fans in awe and exemplified the kind of surprises ACL is known for.
Day 1 of Weekend 2 was just the beginning of another thrilling Austin City Limits weekend, promising more unforgettable performances to come. Stay tuned for more highlights as the festival continues to rock Zilker Park and check out our favorite photos from yesterday’s performances below.
Chris Stapleton surprised fans by bringing out Willie Nelson to open his headlining performance at Weekend 2 of the Austin City Limits Music Festival on Friday night (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Fans at Austin City Limits were in for a treat on the first day of Weekend 2 when country legends Chris Stapleton and Willie Nelson kicked off the night with a surprise collaboration for Stapleton’s Friday night performance. As Stapleton took the stage on the American Express stage, he was joined by Austin music legend, Willie Nelson, a fitting homage to Nelson’s deep ties to the “Austin City Limits” brand. Together, they sat on benches with their guitars, surrounded by Stapleton’s band, and performed two iconic Willie Nelson tracks: “Whiskey River” and “Bloody Mary Morning.”
This unexpected duet held extra significance as Nelson, now 91, is in Austin celebrating the 50th anniversary of his debut on the “Austin City Limits” television show, a historic moment in both his career and the city’s music scene. The performance gave fans a heartfelt connection between the past and present of country music, with Nelson’s timeless voice and Stapleton’s rich vocals blending seamlessly.
After Nelson’s departure, Stapleton continued to electrify the crowd with a setlist full of fan favorites, including hits like “Tennessee Whiskey” and “White Horse.” From start to finish it was a stellar and memorable performance that paid tribute to both Nelson’s legacy and Stapleton’s own status as one of country music’s current heavyweights. The opening collaboration was a perfect encapsulation of ACL Fest’s rich tradition of showcasing the best in live music.
For anyone in the crowd, this was a rare and special moment, one that highlighted both the enduring legacy of Willie Nelson and the magnetic presence of Chris Stapleton as a modern country icon. Together, they set the tone for what will undoubtedly be remembered as one of ACL’s standout performances this year.
Check out our photos from the epic collaboration below.
Kacey Musgraves levitates into the air during a memorable opening to her Chicago performance at the Allstate Arena on September 12, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
“High Horse” singer Kacey Musgraves rode into Rosemont, Illinois last night with her unmistakable charisma, leaving fans at the Allstate Arena thoroughly charmed. On tour supporting her 2024 album Deeper Well, the country-pop queen managed to sprinkle in her signature humor, levitate (yes, you read that right), and dish on Chicago’s finest foods—all while delivering one of the most memorable sets of the year.
For the somehow uninitiated, Musgraves is a genre-defying singer-songwriter whose rise to stardom was kickstarted by her 2013 breakout hit Follow Your Arrow. Since then, she’s collected a slew of Grammy Awards, melted hearts with her ethereal 2018 album Golden Hour, one of the most complete and perfect LPs, and is now back with Deeper Well, a project that dives into emotional depths with as much honesty as her fans have come to love.
Cardinal Takes Flight
Musgraves opened her 20-song set with “Cardinal,” and, no big deal, casually levitated toward the stars (and somehow without any visible wires). As her video backdrop displayed a stunning starry night, the “Star-Crossed” singer gave us another reason to believe she might actually be otherworldly. The crowd went wild, though to be fair, flying isn’t even the most impressive thing she did—her vocals and songwriting might still take the cake there.
A & B, Plus a Little S-Z-A Midway through the set, Musgraves made her way to a B-stage in the middle of the general admission floor, giving fans a closer look (some maybe a little too close). Decked out in a low-cut dress, she joked, “I’m pretty sure some of you behind me can see my butt cheeks, I should have charged y’all extra.” It was this blend of wit and warmth that made her set feel intimate, even in the massive arena.
On the B-stage, she stripped things down with heartfelt performances of Follow Your Arrow, Family Is Family, The Architect, and a surprise cover of SZA’s Kill Bill. The latter was made even more special when she brought out her tour’s opening act, Nickel Creek, to join her. It’s not every day you hear a country star tackle a moody R&B revenge anthem, but leave it to Musgraves to pull it off.
Deep Well and Deeper Dish In between songs, Musgraves made sure to give some love to Chicago’s famous food. Craving for a Chicago style hot dog and some Pequod’s Pizza, the “Deeper Well” singer told the crowd “that s***t’s deep”, speaking on the deep dish pizza. The humor continued, a signature trait of hers, even when she delivered emotionally charged songs like Golden Hour. For instance, in the final moments of that track, she cheekily swapped out the words “golden hour” for “golden shower,” much to the crowd’s delight.
Confirmed Chappell Stan One of the night’s best moments came near the end when she followed a beautiful cover of Chappell Roan’s Pink Pony Club with her chart-topping anthem High Horse. Watching Musgraves transition from a sultry ballad to the upbeat, disco-infused hit had the entire arena up on their feet, dancing like it was a Friday night at Chappell’s now famous fictional club.
No Encore, But Maybe? Musgraves closed out her set with Deeper Well and Rainbow, though she hilariously admitted she wouldn’t call it an encore because they’re too planned. “But,” she quipped, “it’d be funny if I came out after anyway, right?” While she didn’t do a second appearance, her humor kept the vibe light, leaving everyone with the perfect mix of emotions as the night drew to a close.
From the incredible production (including that mind-boggling levitation) to the stripped-down B-stage moments, Kacey Musgraves’ performance felt like a journey—one that was as deep as a well and as high as a horse. And if you missed it, well, next time she rolls into town, you might want to follow your arrow straight to the box office.
Jelly Roll shows off his Harley Davidson swag at the Harley Davidson Homecoming Festival in Milwaukee, WI on July 26, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia).
The Harley Davidson Homecoming festival roared into Milwaukee this weekend, and while the festivities technically kicked off on Thursday, it was Friday night that truly marked the beginning of the musical celebration. Veterans Park, set against the picturesque backdrop of Milwaukee’s lakefront, was transformed into a haven for music lovers and Harley enthusiasts alike.
Headlining the night were two powerhouse performers: Hardy and Jelly Roll. Hardy took to the main stage at 7:30 PM, delivering a 75-minute set that was nothing short of spectacular. His blend of country rock anthems had the crowd on their feet from the first chord, proving that he is a headliner in every sense of the word. His energy was infectious, and his performance set the tone for an unforgettable night.
Following Hardy’s explosive set, Jelly Roll took the stage and continued to elevate the night. His performance was not only musically impressive but emotionally resonant, as he connected with the audience on a deeper level. The crowd, estimated at around 40,000, was a mix of die-hard fans and loyal Harley riders who had journeyed from across the country to be part of this iconic event.
The highlight of Jelly Roll’s performance was undoubtedly the surprise appearance of Machine Gun Kelly. Together, they performed their brand new song “Lonely Road” for the first time ever live, sending the audience into a frenzy. The collaboration was a perfect fusion of their styles, and the debut of “Lonely Road” added an extra layer of excitement to an already electrifying night.
The Harley Davidson Homecoming festival is more than just a music festival; it’s a celebration of community, freedom, and the open road. The camaraderie among the Harley riders and the shared love for music created a unique and unforgettable atmosphere.
As the night came to a close, it was clear that this year’s Homecoming festival had set a high bar for the rest of the weekend. With performances like these, Milwaukee’s lakefront has become the ultimate destination for music fans and motorcycle enthusiasts. If Friday night was any indication, the rest of the festival promises to be a ride worth taking.
Check out our photos from Friday night of the Harley Davidson Homecoming festival below!
Lainey Wilson headlines Night 2 of Country Thunder Wisconsin in Twin Lakes, WI on July 19, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Country music fans were in for a treat this weekend, as the Country Thunder music festival returned to Twin Lakes, Wisconsin for another extended weekend of live music, this time with one of the most diverse lineups that the festival has seen in years. Despite a last minute cancellation from Thursday headliner Koe Wetzel, due to illness, the headliners of Lainey Wilson, Eric Church and Nickelback all delivered amazing sets.
In addition to the diverse cast of headliners, supporting acts like Bailee Zimmerman and Kip Moore (to name a few) also delivered performances that fans won’t soon forget. So of course we had to travel down to Twin Lakes to capture some of the standout moments.
Check out our photos from this year’s Country Thunder Wisconsin below!
Carrie Underwood headlines Windy City Smokeout 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Carrie Underwood’s performance at the Windy City Smokeout was the perfect capstone to the festival’s four-day BBQ and country music extravaganza. Despite weather forecasts threatening to rain on her parade, the organizers wisely moved her set an hour earlier, and as if by divine intervention, the skies opened up shortly after her final note, making the earlier slot a brilliant decision.
The festival, held in the United Center parking lot, is renowned for its blend of mouth-watering BBQ from across the nation and stellar musical performances. Underwood’s Sunday night show did not disappoint. Kicking off her set with the powerful “Church Bells,” the crowd was immediately hooked, even despite some early sound issues. This was followed by the high-energy “Undo It” and the sultry “Cowboy Casanova,” keeping the momentum going strong.
Underwood performed 21 songs in total, a tour de force that included fan favorites and a surprising cover of Guns N’ Roses’ “Paradise City,” showcasing her versatility and homage to rock ‘n’ roll. Her encore, “Before He Cheats,” had everyone singing along, a fitting end to a captivating performance.
Nate Smith warmed up the crowd with an impressive supporting act, setting the stage for what would be an unforgettable night. The festival, known not just for its music but also for its delectable BBQ, saw vendors from all over the country offering a variety of smoky, savory delights that paired perfectly with the tunes.
Underwood’s performance was not just a highlight of the night but a highlight of the entire festival. She took us on a journey through her discography, each song hitting the right notes with the crowd. As the final chords played and the crowd roared, it was clear – nobody in attendance would be “Undoing” this night from their memories anytime soon.
Her full setlist for the evening can be found here, a testament to her incredible range and talent. Carrie Underwood proved once again why she’s a staple in country music and why the Windy City Smokeout is a must-attend festival for music lovers and foodies alike.
Check out our photos from the fourth and final night of Windy City Smokeout below!
Thomas Rhett performs at opening night of 2024’s Windy City Smokeout in Chicago, IL (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Thomas Rhett kicked off the Windy City Smokeout’s Thursday opening night with an unforgettable performance that set the tone for the four-day festival. As the first notes of “Vacation” filled the United Center parking lot, the crowd erupted in cheers, eager to start their musical journey with one of country music’s biggest stars.
Rhett’s infectious energy was evident from the beginning, captivating the audience and ensuring that everyone was in for a night of pure entertainment. Rhett continued to delight fans with “Look What God Gave Her,” a track that showcased his signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies.
The song’s upbeat rhythm had the crowd dancing and singing along, creating a joyous atmosphere that permeated the festival grounds. With each song, Rhett demonstrated why he remains a fan favorite, seamlessly blending old hits with newer tracks. The night truly hit its stride with “Beer Can’t Fix,” a lighthearted anthem that perfectly complemented the festival’s renowned BBQ and beer offerings. As attendees enjoyed the diverse culinary delights from vendors across the country, Rhett’s performance provided the ideal soundtrack, enhancing the overall festival experience. The smell of smoky BBQ, coupled with the lively music, created a sensory feast that attendees won’t soon forget.
One of the evening’s highlights was Chase Rice’s performance just before Rhett took the stage. Rice not only delivered an outstanding set but also won the hearts of the crowd by bringing his dog, Jack, on stage. This heartwarming moment set the stage for the night’s camaraderie and fun. The surprise duet of “Friends in Low Places” between Rhett and Rice during the night’s headlining set was a standout moment, showcasing their chemistry and delighting the audience with an unexpected collaboration.
Rhett’s set list, spanning 15 songs, was a testament to his versatility as an artist. Each track, from high-energy anthems to soulful ballads, was met with enthusiastic responses from the crowd. The highlight of the night came during the encore, where Rhett performed “Die A Happy Man” and “T-Shirt.” These fan-favorite tracks had the entire audience singing along, creating a powerful, shared experience that capped off an incredible night.
The Windy City Smokeout, known for its blend of top-tier country music and exceptional food, lived up to its reputation. The United Center parking lot proved to be an ideal venue, offering ample space for the large crowd while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. The festival’s unique combination of music and culinary excellence made for an unforgettable experience, one that was perfectly complemented by Rhett’s charismatic performance.
Thomas Rhett’s opening night performance at Windy City Smokeout was a masterclass in live entertainment. His ability to connect with the audience, coupled with his impressive set list and the festival’s vibrant atmosphere, made for a night that attendees will remember for years to come. If this performance is any indication, the rest of the festival promises to be just as spectacular.
Check out our photos from opening night of the Windy City Smokeout below!
And just like that, Summerfest 2024 came to a close last night. With another impressive and diverse lineup of artists, new and old, and a headlining show with a cast of the biggest rappers out, you couldn’t have dreamt a better way to close out Milwaukee’s premiere lakefront music festival.
From Lil Uzi Vert and Lil Yachty to Neon Trees and Ivan Cornejo, Saturday night had something for everyone, and from the looks out the crowd it was also one of the busiest days of the entire festival. So of course we had to be there to capture some of the standout moments from the entire day.
Check our our photos from the ninth and final day of Summerfest 2024 below!
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