Singer Chappell Roan proved why her star is on the rise with a memorable golden hour set for the final day of the Austin City Limits Music Festival (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Day 3 of the Austin City Limits Festival’s second weekend capped off the event in a sweltering fashion, with temperatures hitting record highs. Despite the heat, festival-goers were treated to a diverse lineup of artists, delivering high-energy performances across multiple stages. Here’s a recap of the highlights from the final day.
Petey Petey kicked off the day on the IHG Stage with his usual quirky charm, drawing the audience in by broadcasting the Bears vs. Jaguars game on a giant screen behind him while he performed. His mix of comedic antics and emotional alt-pop songs set the tone for a fun-filled day.
Misterwives On the Honda Stage, Misterwives brought an electrifying performance, with lead singer Mandy Lee delivering her signature dynamic stage presence. Their set closed with fan-favorites “Reflections” and “Our Own House,” complete with energetic guitar riffs and infectious beats that had the crowd bouncing along.
Medium Build Next up was Medium Build on the Miller Lite Stage, blending alt-rock and introspective lyrics into a soulful performance. Their set captivated the crowd as they shared personal stories through music, creating a strong connection with the audience.
Bakar On the T-Mobile Stage, Bakar delivered his unique blend of indie rock and hip-hop. His laid-back yet powerful performance stood out as one of the cooler moments of the hot afternoon, with tracks like “Hell N Back” getting the crowd swaying despite the heat.
Orville Peck Orville Peck graced the Honda Stage in his signature fringed mask, bringing a blend of country and alternative music to life. His haunting baritone voice and western aesthetic captivated the audience, especially during tracks like “Dead of Night.” And for the cherry on top, Peck invited Willie Nelson on stage for a memorable collaboration.
Kevin Abstract Over on the IHG Stage, Kevin Abstract, formerly of Brockhampton, brought an introspective and energetic performance, blending his personal, raw lyrics with an upbeat production. His set was a mix of old favorites and newer tracks, as he engaged with the crowd, offering a deeply personal connection through his music.
That Mexican OT Bringing his blend of Texas hip-hop to the T-Mobile Stage, That Mexican OT had the crowd hyped with tracks like “Johnny Dang.” His rapid-fire flow and heavy beats kept the energy high as festival-goers flocked to his set, even as fans for Chappell Roan began gathering nearby.
Chappell Roan The star of the day was Chappell Roan, who performed to one of the largest crowds ACL has ever seen. Her energetic and theatrical set on the American Express Stage was a festival highlight, especially when she performed “Pink Pony Club,” her final performance of the track in 2024. Fans sporting pink cowboy hats and “Midwest Princess” merch filled the area, making this one of the most memorable moments of the weekend.
Qveen Herby Closing out the night on the IHG Stage was Qveen Herby, whose unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and witchy visuals made for a spellbinding performance. Dressed in a flowing purple velvet cloak, she moved through her set with hits like “Balenciaga Dreams” and “Abracadabra,” offering a perfect close to the final day of ACL.
Day 3 was packed with unforgettable moments, from Petey’s humor to Chappell Roan’s record-breaking crowd. Despite the heat, the artists brought their best, closing out Weekend 2 of ACL with a bang.
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.
Gracie Abrams during her headlining Chicago debut at the Metro on February 8, 2022 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Gracie Abrams’ Secret of Us tour stop at the Aragon Ballroom last night felt like a triumphant return. Abrams, who had previously opened for Olivia Rodrigo on the very same stage during the Sour Tour, and who had just first performed in the Windy City a couple years ago, a few blocks away, returned to Chicago, this time to a packed, sold-out crowd. With nearly five times the number of fans compared to her 2022 performance at The Metro, and likely the ability to sell out last night’s venue another five times over (or perhaps more), Gracie’s star power has clearly skyrocketed. Early in the show, she paused to reminisce about her intimate Metro performance, calling it one of her favorite shows of all time and reflecting on how surreal it was to now fill a space as large as the Aragon Ballroom.
“Welcome to The Secret of Us Tour. I don’t know if any of you were at our show at The Metro, that was one of my favorite shows of all time! To be here is unbelievable.”
As she welcomed the audience, the love in the room was palpable. Fans wearing Gracie’s signature bows filled the venue, showcasing the deep connection she has with her supporters. The room was so electric that, at times, the audience’s collective voice overpowered Gracie herself—a testament to how deeply her music resonates with her listeners.
Opening with “Felt Good About You,” Gracie set the tone for an evening of vulnerable storytelling and catharsis. Tracks like “Risk,” “Mess It Up,” and “Blowing Smoke” were delivered with the emotional depth that has become Abrams’ hallmark, and the crowd responded with equal fervor. During “21” and “I Miss You, I’m Sorry,” it was almost impossible not to feel the weight of each lyric as the room sang along in perfect harmony.
In addition to her familiar hits, Gracie treated fans to a special surprise with the performance of an unreleased track called “Cool,” which she announced would be included on the deluxe version of The Secret of Us, set to be released next month. The excitement in the crowd reached a fever pitch as she shared this news, further solidifying the deep bond between Abrams and her fans.
Gracie also took time to spotlight her opening act, Role Model (Tucker Pillsbury), expressing how much his music has meant to her over the years. She had the crowd shout “Love you, Tucker” so he could hear their admiration from backstage. Although some fans missed parts of Role Model’s set, due to long lines to get in and the show starting a half-an-hour early, the Los Angeles-native performed a great opening 8-track set, including songs like “Deeply Still in Love”, “Writing’s on the Wall” and “Scumbag”.
Though the evening was full of emotional highs, Gracie made sure to take a moment to discuss something heavier—politics. Partnering with organizations like HeadCount and Planned Parenthood on her tour, Abrams used her platform to encourage fans to vote, citing the upcoming election as one of the most crucial moments of our time.
“In my opinion, true democracy equals freedom, freedom to control your body, the freedom to read books that expand your mind, the freedom to love who you love, the freedom to take care of your neighbors. We need to decide if we are going to control our own destiny or let a bunch of men who do not share our values to do that for us.”
Abrams rallied the sold-out crowd to take control of their destinies rather than letting those with differing values decide for them. Her passion for activism was evident, and her message resonated with a crowd that came for the music but left with much more.
Gracie Abrams’ return to Chicago was nothing short of magical. The singer-songwriter has transformed from the emerging act and opener we saw a couple of years ago into a headliner who commands every corner of the stage. From her heartfelt music to her open conversations about activism, Abrams proves she’s not just a performer but a force of nature. With the Secret of Us tour continuing to pack venues and a deluxe album on the way, Gracie’s rise shows no signs of stopping and the Aragon will likely be the most “intimate” venue you’ll be able to see her perform at as her current tour could have sold-out arenas across the country. Her performance at the Aragon Ballroom was unforgettable, leaving no doubt that she’s one of the most captivating voices in music today.
SETLIST
Felt Good About You
Risk
Blowing Smoke
21
I Love You, I’m Sorry
Where Do We Go Now?
Gave You I Gave You I
Mess It Up
Full Machine
Cool (Live debut; from upcoming The Secret of Us deluxe)
Glass Animals performing at the Moody Center on Sunday, September 22, 2024 (Photo by Camryn Hutchens/The Early Registration).
Glass Animals’ Tour of Earth landed in Austin last night, and it was as if the Moody Center had been transformed into a cosmic voyage through space, soundtracked by the band’s signature indie-electronic vibes. The UK-based quartet took the audience on an interstellar journey with a space-themed production, complete with futuristic visuals that made you feel like you were floating somewhere between Mars and “Space Ghost Coast to Coast” (a setlist highlight).
For those not familiar with Glass Animals, they’re known for their dreamy, genre-bending sound. Fronted by Dave Bayley, the group has been steadily rising in the indie scene since their 2014 debut ZABA. But their breakout hit, Heat Waves, from the 2020 album Dreamland, was the moment they really broke orbit, topping charts worldwide and cementing them as festival headliners. Last night’s performance of Heat Waves felt like the emotional zenith of the show, with the crowd lighting up the arena like stars in the night sky.
The setlist was a balanced mix of their old and new work, kicking off with Life Itself and moving through favorites like Gooey and Pork Soda. A personal favorite was the track Your Love (Déjà Vu), which had the crowd vibing along, possibly experiencing a bit of musical déjà vu themselves. The band also dove into newer material, with songs like A Tear in Space (Airlock) and Lost in the Ocean, which were well-received by the Austin crowd.
The cosmic theme was brought to life not just by the music but through the stunning visuals that accompanied each song. Neon lights, swirling galaxies, and even space creatures (yes, really) filled the massive screens, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that made you feel like you’d been beamed up from Earth. It was a visual feast that enhanced the already hypnotic beats.
Of course, no Glass Animals show is complete without a sense of playfulness, and last night was no different. Bayley’s infectious energy had the crowd in the palm of his hand, especially during Tokyo Drifting and Take a Slice. The whimsical energy was dialed up to 11 during Pork Soda, with its unforgettable “pineapples are in my head” refrain echoing throughout the venue, leaving everyone with a smile.
All in all, Glass Animals delivered an out-of-this-world performance that had Austin floating on a cloud of synths and euphoria. If the Tour of Earth is passing through your town, strap in—it’s a wild ride through space and sound that you won’t want to miss!
Check out of photos from photographer Camryn Hutchens below!
If you thought Friday night at the iHeartRadio Music Festival was a wild ride, Saturday night took things to a whole new level. With a lineup that stretched from country superstar Keith Urban to pop sensation Doja Cat, and closing out with The Weeknd’s electrifying performance, it was like playing every card in the deck—and winning big every time. The second night at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas had something for every music lover, from the nostalgic beats of New Kids On the Block to the heart-wrenching soul of Hozier. And with special guests and surprise debuts, this show turned out to be a sure bet.
With performances that felt like hitting the jackpot time and time again, the energy in the crowd was electric from the moment New Kids On the Block helped kick things off. The night featured everything from intimate acoustic moments to high-octane pop anthems, and every artist brought their A-game. Las Vegas may be known for its blinding lights and high stakes, but the real magic on Saturday was inside the arena, where music reigned supreme.
New Kids On the Block: And a Nostalgic Crossover
Opening night two was none other than the boy band legends themselves, New Kids On the Block. Decked out in classic ‘90s swagger, they took the crowd on a trip down memory lane with “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” and “Step by Step.” But the real surprise hand came when they brought out Flavor Flav to join them for an unexpected mash-up of “Hangin’ Tough” and Queen’s “We Will Rock You.” It was the perfect mix of nostalgia and Vegas-style showmanship, and the crowd ate it up. For fans of the old school, this was the moment they had been betting on.
Big Sean Represents for the Rappers
Next up was Big Sean, and he didn’t come to play—well, not just to play. Sean tore through a high-energy set that included the live debut of “It Is What It Is” and classics like “Mercy” and “Bounce Back.” Dressed in black leather over a white tee, Sean looked every bit the rap star, and the crowd couldn’t get enough when he dropped “I Don’t F*ck With You.” His performance was as entertaining as ever, reminding everyone that Big Sean’s always a Big Deal when it comes to live performances.
Keith Urban Gives Vegas some Country Sounds
Keith Urban brought his signature mix of country and rock to the stage, opening with “Straight Line.” Dressed in black pants and a red plaid shirt, Urban reminded everyone that country can hold its own in a festival lineup packed with pop and hip-hop stars. “Blue Ain’t Your Color” had the crowd swaying, while “Wasted Time” brought the energy right back up. Urban’s guitar skills were on full display, and he played every note like it was a winning hand.
Victoria Monét: Pure R&B Gold
Victoria Monét made her iHeartRadio debut with a performance that was pure gold. Opening with “Alright,” she delivered an effortlessly smooth R&B set that included crowd favorites like “Ass Like That” and the sultry “Jaguar.” Monét commanded the stage with elegance and swagger, and when she closed out with “On My Mama,” the audience was right there with her. Her performance was a slow burn, building the energy perfectly for the artists to follow.
Chris Martin: Acoustic Heartstrings
Chris Martin’s set brought the crowd to a quiet, intimate place with acoustic versions of Coldplay classics like “A Sky Full of Stars” and “Viva la Vida.” Performing in his signature understated style, Martin reminded the audience why his songs are the soundtrack to so many lives. In a surprise moment, he brought out Elyanna to join him on the track “We Pray,” adding an extra layer of magic to an already stellar set. For a moment, it felt like we were all gathered around a campfire, listening to stories told through song.
Hozier: Soulful and Soaring
Hozier followed with a hauntingly beautiful set that included “Nobody’s Soldier,” “Work Song,” and, of course, his massive hit “Take Me to Church.” Dressed in an all-grey suit, Hozier looked like a man who had wandered straight out of a dream, and his voice matched that vibe perfectly. His performance was a masterclass in soulful vulnerability, making everyone in the crowd feel like they were part of something deeply intimate—even in an arena of thousands.
Halsey: Fiery and Fearless
Halsey, fresh off her engagement to Avan Jogia, hit the stage with fire and passion—and red hair to match. She opened with “Nightmare” and powered through hits like “Without Me” and “Closer.” Dressed in a dress shirt, suspenders, and pants, Halsey looked fierce and fearless, delivering every song with the intensity she’s known for. The raw emotion of “You Should Be Safe” hit hard, but she quickly flipped the energy back up with her closing track, “Ego.” Halsey doesn’t hold back, and Saturday night was no exception.
Doja Cat Delivers
Doja Cat scratched her way to the top with a high-energy set that kept everyone on their feet. She opened with the “WYM Freestyle” before launching into “Demons” and fan-favorite “Say So.” In a white tank top and gray pants, Doja kept it simple—but her performance was anything but. “Agora Hills” had the crowd hyped, and by the time she finished with “Paint the Town Red,” it was clear she had solidified her status as a pop powerhouse. Every move, every beat—Doja Cat owned the night.
The Weeknd: Full Production, Full Perfection
Closing out night two was none other than The Weeknd, and if you thought his performance was just going to be a few songs and done, think again. The full production set featured about 50 dancers, perfectly complementing his stage presence. He opened with his new single “Dancing in the Flames” and kept the energy high with “Take My Breath” and “Blinding Lights.” When he closed with “Dancing in the Flames” again—this time the full version—it felt like he had taken the crowd through a journey and brought them back again. It was the perfect final act for a night that had already seen so many highlights.
And That’s a Wrap
Night two of the iHeartRadio Music Festival was everything fans could have hoped for and more. With a lineup that delivered hit after hit, it was a fitting end to an unforgettable weekend. From The Weeknd’s fiery finale to Keith Urban’s country-rock swagger, there was something for everyone. Here’s to another jackpot weekend of music magic in Las Vegas!
Dua Lipa performs at the United Center in Chicago, IL on March 9, 2022 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
In a city where the stakes are high, and dreams can come true with the roll of the dice, the iHeartRadio Music Festival rolled back into Las Vegas for another unforgettable weekend. Known for bringing together some of the biggest names in music across all genres, the annual festival transforms the T-Mobile Arena into a music playground where pop stars, rock legends, and country crooners all share the same stage. It’s not just about the performances, it’s about the experience, and there’s no better place to have it than the neon-lit streets of Vegas.
Every September, this two-day extravaganza draws music lovers, high-rollers, and casual fans alike to indulge in an incredible lineup of performers, and 2024 was no different. The iHeartRadio Music Festival has become a bucket list event, a place where once-in-a-lifetime collaborations and surprise guests are just as likely as hitting a royal flush on the strip. With the iconic backdrop of the Vegas Strip, the festival turns up the heat with its all star, featuring everyone from chart-topping pop icons to legendary rock acts.
The energy in the air on Friday night was palpable, like a gambler on a hot streak about to pull the lever one more time. Fans poured into the arena with high expectations, ready to see their favorite artists deliver the hits. For those who couldn’t be there in person, the show was broadcast live to fans across the globe, but let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like experiencing it all in the heart of Sin City. The festival has earned its reputation as a place where anything can happen, and this year was no exception. Friday’s lineup was a perfect blend of nostalgia, emerging talent, and fan favorites that made it feel like you were cashing in on a full house every time a new artist hit the stage.
With the bright lights of the casinos beckoning outside, it was time to double down on the music.
The Black Crowes: Kicking Things Off
The Black Crowes swooped in first, and boy, did they open strong with “Twice as Hard” and “Wanting and Waiting.” Lead singer Chris Robinson brought rock’n’roll grit to Vegas like he was holding an ace up his sleeve, especially when they tore through their hit Otis Redding cover, “Hard to Handle.” It was almost as if their guitar riffs were playing poker with the audience’s emotions—everyone was all in when “She Talks to Angels” started, and they doubled down with “Remedy” to close. Their performance was twice as nice, even without a casino chip in sight.
The New Camila Cabello
Next up was Camila Cabello, and she came to play—opening with her Playboi Carti-assisted “I LUV IT.” From the sultry beats of “Havana” to the romantic vibes of “Senorita,” Camila had the crowd swooning. And just when you thought you’d folded, she dropped her wild card to close her set, “Never Be the Same”, reminding everyone why she’s one of pop’s best players. It’s safe to say she left her heart and voice on the Vegas strip.
Gwen Stefani: No Doubt, She’s Still Got It
Gwen Stefani, strutted onstage like she owned the entire casino floor, opening with “The Sweet Escape.” Wearing her signature ponytail, a pink plaid ensemble, and black boots, Gwen was giving all the glam Vegas deserves. She debuted the live performance of “Somebody Else’s,” the next single off her forthcoming album “Bouquet”. From “Don’t Speak” to “Just a Girl,” she reminded everyone of her ska-punk roots before turning up the fun with “Hollaback Girl.” This set wasn’t just bananas; it was B-A-N-A-N-A-S.
Thomas Rhett Brings Georgia to Nevada
Thomas Rhett was up next, bringing a little southern charm to Sin City in his all-denim outfit. He opened with “Beautiful As You,” and for a moment, it felt like we were at a country dive bar instead of a mega-arena. Vegas odds were on his heartfelt “Die a Happy Man” being a crowd favorite, and he cashed in. With hits like “Make Me Wanna” and “Boots,” Rhett proved he’s got a knack for making country music feel at home in the desert heat. After all the bars were closed, he left the stage with nothing but smiles, like a lucky gambler walking away from the slots.
Shaboozy Goes 1 for 1
Shaboozy brought his smooth, genre-blending style to the stage with “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” offering a refreshing cocktail of sounds that Las Vegas wasn’t ready for. Sporting a shirt from Desert 5 Spot, the Los Angeles country bar, Shaboozy kept the one song performance full of energy, letting his lyrics speak louder than the slots from the neighboring casinos. A perfect breather before the headliners stormed the stage.
Paramore Gets Real
Hayley Williams and Paramore came to burn the house down, kicking off with “Hard Times” and a killer cover of Talking Heads’ “Burning Down the House.” But it wasn’t just their music that had everyone talking; Hayley’s all-blue outfit was an eye-catcher. Inspired by Blondie’s 1979 live performance on The Midnight Special, Williams rocked a blue dress, fishnet stockings, heels, and a matching headband. If the iconic Debbie Harry had fronted a 2024 pop-punk band, it would’ve looked exactly like this.
But Paramore didn’t just come to give us a history lesson in music fashion. During “Big Man, Little Dignity,” Williams made a passionate plea for political action, specifically calling out Donald Trump and Project 2025. “It is time for all Americans to band together and finally defeat the Trump agenda,” she urged. “And the only way to do that is by confronting him at the polls. Do you want to live in a dictatorship? Well, show up and vote.” The crowd roared in agreement as she continued, “Project 2025 is Donald Trump’s playbook for controlling and punishing women, poor people, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community.”
The rest of the set brought fans back to the music they’ve come to know and love, including an emotional performance of “The Only Exception.” They closed out their set with the energetic anthem “Ain’t It Fun,” reminding everyone that Paramore is still as fresh and relevant as ever. Hayley Williams may have taken a bold stance on stage, but she left the audience dancing, proving that a little fun with a message can make the biggest impact.
Dua Lipa: Sparkling and Stunning
And finally, closing out the night was one of the queens of pop herself, Dua Lipa, dressed in a jaw-dropping black sparkly dress and bedazzled boots that had more shimmer than a disco ball. Dua opened with “Training Season” before elevating the energy with “Levitating”—and that’s no illusion. She dropped hit after hit, from “New Rules” to “Don’t Start Now,” and by the time she finished with “Houdini,” she’d completely disappeared—but not before taking everyone’s breath away. If there was ever a pop performance that felt like hitting the jackpot, this was it.
Saturday Night
But the iHeartRadio Music Festival isn’t over yet! Night two is coming in hot with Big Sean, Doja Cat, Halsey, The Weeknd, Hozier, Keith Urban, New Kids On The Block, Victoria Monét, and Chris Martin. If Friday was any indicator, Saturday’s lineup will surely have fans betting on another unforgettable night.
So, whether you’re hitting the tables or just here for the tunes, the iHeartRadio Music Festival is proving to be a gamble worth taking this weekend!
Vance Joy performs at the Salt Shed in Chicago, IL on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 (Photo by Tess Trueblood/The Early Registration).
Vance Joy brought his signature blend of indie-folk and heartfelt lyrics to the Salt Shed in Chicago last night, for one of his ‘dream your life away’ anniversary shows. It’s been ten years since his acclaimed album left us all stranded on a “Riptide” of feels, and Tuesday night proved that those waves of nostalgia are still crashing strong. With 18 songs on the setlist, a couple of surprising covers, and plenty of acoustic magic, Vance Joy turned a breezy Chicago night into a memory for the ages.
The Salt Shed, once an industrial salt storage facility, now functions as a unique concert venue. Its rugged, exposed brick and steel beams offer a gritty yet charming contrast to more traditional concert spaces. Joy opened the show with acoustic versions of “From Afar” and “Winds of Change,” setting the tone for an intimate evening under the stars. His voice, as tender as ever, made the night feel like a personal serenade.
In an unexpected twist, Joy treated fans to a cover of Noah Cyrus’ “Everybody Needs Someone” and a surprising rendition of KISS’ “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” These moments kept the crowd guessing and added a fresh twist to the set, making the performance feel both nostalgic and new. Of course, the crowd erupted when the unmistakable opening chords of “Riptide” rang out, with everyone singing along to his biggest hit.
For the encore, Vance returned with “I’m With You,” capping off a night filled with acoustic gems and heartfelt performances. Joy’s performance at the Salt Shed was the perfect tribute to an album that’s still as touching now as it was a decade ago. Here’s to the next 10 years of dreamin’ with Vance Joy.
Check out our amazing photos from the memorable night, from our photographer Tess Trueblood below.
Photos by Tess Trueblood/The Early Registration
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