Doja Cat headlines Day 1 of Outside Lands 2025 (Photo by Dan Garcia).
The opening day of Outside Lands wasted no time setting the tone for the weekend. Golden Gate Park came alive with the hum of bass, the shimmer of sequins, and the constant shuffle of fans racing to catch their must-see sets. By sunset, it was clear Friday wasn’t just a warm-up, it was a statement.
From virtuosic bass solos to crowd-surfing pop moments, here’s how Day 1 made its mark.
Thundercat
Armed with his signature six-string bass and an unmatched sense of groove, Thundercat kicked things into gear with a set that was as much about musicianship as it was about pure vibe. His improvisational runs had the crowd grinning and nodding in sync.
Doechii
Effortlessly blending bold style with razor-sharp delivery, Doechii commanded the stage like she owned the park. From hard-hitting rap verses to fluid R&B hooks, her set kept the audience locked in from first beat to last.
Doja Cat
Doja Cat’s headlining performance was part spectacle, part masterclass in pop star charisma. Flanked by dancers and dazzling visuals, she cycled through chart-toppers and fan favorites with ease, each track met with deafening cheers.
Role Model
With wry humor and a knack for hooks that stick, Role Model delivered one of the day’s most unexpectedly massive crowds. Between playful banter and heartfelt ballads, his set had fans swaying one minute and belting lyrics the next.
Photos by Dan Garcia
Doja Cat headlines Day 1 of Outside Lands 2025 (Photo by Dan Garcia).
Country Thunder Wisconsin 2025 officially kicked off last night in Twin Lakes with a high-energy set from country hitmaker Cole Swindell. The Thursday night headliner wasted no time getting the party started, running through a crowd-pleasing mix of chart-toppers, singalongs, and heartfelt ballads that set the tone for the rest of the weekend.
From the moment he stepped on stage, Swindell had the massive Twin Lakes crowd singing along to hits like “Ain’t Worth the Whiskey,” “Middle of a Memory,” and his career-defining anthem “She Had Me at Heads Carolina.” With a blend of smooth vocals and laid-back charm, Swindell effortlessly connected with the audience, many of whom had been tailgating since the early afternoon. He also paused for a few sincere moments, thanking fans for starting their weekend with him.
Despite the heat, the energy didn’t let up once throughout the set, and fans left buzzing about what’s still to come. With Hardy, Jelly Roll, and Dierks Bentley set to headline the next few nights, Cole Swindell’s kickoff was the perfect way to start one of the Midwest’s biggest country weekends of the year.
Check out some of our favorite photos from Cole Swindell’s opening night performance below (Photos by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Kane Brown headlines the third night of Windy City Smokeout 2025 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Windy City Smokeout hit full stride on Saturday night as country superstar Kane Brown lit up the stage for a sold-out crowd outside the United Center. Following a strong set from Megan Moroney, Brown’s high-energy headlining performance capped off a stacked third night of the four-day BBQ and country music bash in the heart of Chicago.
Fans packed into the festival grounds hours before the main event, some securing a spot for Megan Moroney’s early evening set, which included fan favorites like “Tennessee Orange” and “I’m Not Pretty.” Moroney’s effortless charm and twangy vocals were a perfect appetizer for what was to come, and judging by the sea of boots and beer cans already in motion, the crowd was more than ready for round two.
By the time Kane Brown hit the stage, the sun had dipped low and the skyline backdrop gave way to festival lights and phone flashlights. From the opening notes of “I Am” to the encore of “Miles On It”, Brown gave fans the full range of his catalog. The crowd erupted for “Be Like That” and swayed during the heartfelt “Homesick,” proving Kane’s ability to bounce between stadium-sized energy and intimate connection with ease.
The production was large, with plenty of pyro and Kane striding across the catwalk to interact with fans in every direction. At several points, he paused to soak in the energy of the night.
Scroll down to check out our favorite shots from Kane Brown’s unforgettable Saturday night set at Windy City Smokeout 2025.
Photos by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Kane Brown headlines the third night of Windy City Smokeout 2025 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Thursday night, country-pop powerhouse Kelsea Ballerini made her long-awaited debut on Austin City Limits Season 51 at the iconic Moody Theater, and it was an unforgettable evening. The stage was her canvas, and she painted it with raw emotion, heartfelt storytelling, and sheer musical prowess.
The performance came hot on the heels of her fifth studio album, Patterns, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart and No. 4 on the Billboard 200, marking her highest-charting release yet. With a producer’s touch alongside Alysa Vanderheym, Ballerini delivered a collection of songs praised for their vulnerability and resilience, highlighted by the soaring single “Cowboys Cry Too”. Her ACL performance served as a live showcase of this artistic chapter.
From the jubilant first single that put her on the map, “Love Me Like You Mean It”, to the deeply personal “To The Men That Love Women After Heartbreak” and the compelling new anthem “Patterns,” her set sketched a narrative arc that was both familiar and forward-looking.
Kelsea Ballerini’s first appearance on Austin City Limits was more than a milestone, it was a musical statement. With masterful pacing, emotional honesty, and an undeniably magnetic presence, she transformed the ACL stage into a space where country meets pop, personal storytelling meets universal resonance.
From chart-topping singles to intimate ballads, Ballerini wove together a setlist that honored her roots while embracing her evolution. If this performance is any indication, this chapter of her career is poised to be her most compelling yet.
Check out photos from Ballerini’s highly anticipated debut and the evening’s set list below! The broadcast episode will air this fall on PBS as part of Austin City Limit‘s upcoming Season 51.
Photos by Scott Newton, courtesy Austin City Limits
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Photo by Scott Newton (Courtesy of Austin City Limits)
Bailey Zimmerman performed for his home crowd to kick off night one of the Windy City Smokeout 2025 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Windy City Smokeout 2025 opened with a bang, and a boom of thunder, as Day 1 of the beloved country and BBQ festival brought music, chaos, and a whole lot of rain to the United Center parking lot. What began as a hot and humid Thursday quickly turned into a weather rollercoaster, but that didn’t stop Illinois native Bailey Zimmerman from closing out the night with a powerful, high-energy set that felt like a homecoming celebration.
Earlier in the evening, Koe Wetzel took the stage for a shortened performance. Originally scheduled to play for over an hour, Koe cut his set short after a little more than 30 minutes. Fans could tell something was off, his trademark grit was there, but he was clearly battling vocal issues, often stepping back from the mic between songs. Despite the abbreviated set, Wetzel powered through with crowd favorites.
Just before 7 p.m., the sky opened up and festival organizers made the difficult call to evacuate the grounds due to lightning in the area. For two hours, fans huddled under shelter or headed back to their cars, unsure whether the night’s headlining performance would still go on. But just after 9 p.m., the all-clear was given, and Bailey Zimmerman took the stage, greeted by a roar of cheers from a soaked but thrilled audience.
Zimmerman, who proudly hails from Illinois, didn’t let the rain or delay slow him down. He came out with unmatched energy, making up for lost time with an explosive set that kept fans singing and dancing late into the night. His gratitude for the crowd’s patience and passion was evident, turning the set into something that felt more like a celebration than just a concert.
Day 1 may not have gone exactly as planned, but thanks to Bailey Zimmerman, it still ended on a high note.
Scroll down to check out some of our favorite photos from Day 1 of Windy City Smokeout 2025 (Photos by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
The Lumineers closed out Summerfest 2025 the way only they could, with sincerity, harmony, and a sold-out amphitheater full of fans yelling “Ho!” and “Hey!” like their lives depended on it.
Headlining the American Family Insurance Amphitheater on Saturday night, the Colorado-born folk rock band brought a warm, emotional close to three weekends of nonstop music on Milwaukee’s lakefront. This wasn’t their first time playing Summerfest or the venue, but it might’ve been their most triumphant.
For many in the crowd, it wasn’t just the end of a festival, it was a moment of reflection, connection, and collective singing that felt bigger than any fireworks show that the holiday weekend could offer. From early hits to newer gems, The Lumineers reminded us how powerful simple and honest songwriting can still be.
Here are 9 reasons you shouldn’t have missed it.
1. They always deliver on the Summerfest grounds
Whether it’s a headlining tour or part of Summerfest’s official lineup, The Lumineers have made Milwaukee a frequent stop and every time they show up, they bring the house down.
2. It was the final night of this year’s Summerfest
You only get one shot to close out the world’s largest music festival, and The Lumineers made sure the last night was something to remember.
3. It was another sell-out
If you were still hunting for tickets the week of, you were out of luck. It was one of the most in-demand sets of the entire festival and the packed amphitheater proved it.
4. “Ho Hey” was made for this setting
Some songs are destined to be sung outdoors, shoulder to shoulder with strangers, all yelling in rhythm. “Ho Hey” isn’t just a hit it’s a group therapy session under the stars.
5. They sounded flawless
No frills, no filler, just pitch-perfect vocals, tight instrumentation, and harmonies that hit you in the chest. Wesley Schultz sounded as fresh as ever.
6. One of their last Milwaukee shows triggered the end of the world, so it couldn’t get any worse than that
One of the last times The Lumineers were performing in Milwaukee (at the Fiserv), the world shut down due to COVID-19. This time? No global pandemic followed. Just good vibes and banjo solos.
7. They played the hits and then some
“Ophelia,” “Angela,” “Stubborn Love”, they were all there. But fans were also treated to deeper cuts and newer favorites that made the set feel rich and well-rounded.
8. They proved why they’re perfect festival closers
Not every band can command a massive amphitheater crowd without pyrotechnics or flashy visuals. The Lumineers did it with raw emotion and timeless songs.
9. Jeremiah and Wesley are still doing it 20 years later
Bandmates Jeremiah Fraites and Wesley Schultz have been making music together for two decades now, and it shows. Their chemistry, trust, and passion radiated from the stage and it was contagious.
On Thursday night, Benson Boone took over the iconic American Family Insurance Amphitheater at Summerfest, and boy, did he deliver. Against the sprawling backdrop of Milwaukee’s Henry Maier Festival Park, Boone commanded a sold-out crowd with a 18-song set that showcased his growth from breakout artist to stage-born performer. From tender vocal feels to full-throttle anthems, his Summerfest set was nothing short of unforgettable.
Boone kicked things off with an emotional punch, launching into “Sorry I’m Here for Someone Else” and “I Wanna Be the One You Call”, immediately engaging fans with his soulful vocal timbre and intimate stage presence. Things got sweet and intimate with “Coffee Cake”, before transitioning into high-energy territory with “Drunk in My Mind” and “There She Goes”, where he paced the stage, waving his arms and feeding off the crowd’s infectious energy.
Mid-set, the mood shifted. With “Slow It Down” and “Be Someone”, Boone stripped things back, his voice crystal clear against the amphitheater lights and the night sky. Then of course, what better way to cap off a memorable night than with his breakout single “Beautiful Things”, the track that made him a star. Spanning bangers, ballads, and emotional crescendos, Boone’s performance at the AmFam Amp confirmed that he’s far more than a TikTok flipping darling, he’s a full-fledged performer capable of moving a massive crowd with both vocal finesse and authentic connection.
Check out our photos of the sold-out performance below!
Austin City Limits continues its landmark 51st season with a pair of highly anticipated tapings in July. The genre-spanning artistry of indie outfit The Marías and the chart-topping country-pop flair of Kelsea Ballerini will light up the iconic Moody Theater on July 8 and 10, respectively.
The Marías: Psychedelic Soul Comes to ACL (July 8)
Bursting onto the scene with their cinematic debut Cinema in 2021, The Marías have since gained acclaim for their hypnotic fusion of jazz, psychedelia, funk, and lounge. The duo, fronted by Puerto-Rican-born, Atlanta-raised María Zardoya and LA-based Josh Conway, alongside Jesse Perlman (guitar) and Edward James (keys) weaves a musical tapestry rich in smoke-velvet vocals, nostalgic horns, and jazz-fueled percussion.
Their ACL debut comes on the heels of Submarine, their sophomore album and a reflective return to the hazy indie rock roots first hinted at in their 2017 EP Superclean. Described by Josh as the “bookend to their trilogy”, Submarine explores solitude’s lonely beauty and evokes a vivid, almost filmic exploration of human emotion. Fans caught them this spring, lighting up Coachella and ACL Fest; now ACL fans get the full immersive live experience.
Kelsea Ballerini: Country Pop Trailblazer Takes on ACL (July 10)
Country music’s shining star, Kelsea Ballerini, makes her ACL debut on July 10, showcasing songs from her fifth studio album, Patterns. A decade after her breakthrough with The First Time, which spawned three consecutive No. 1 singles by a debut female artist, Ballerini has built an impressive résumé: seven chart-toppers, 36 RIAA certifications, multiple Grammy nods, and induction into the Grand Ole Opry at just 25.
Her 2024 album Patterns debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Albums chart and hit No. 4 on the Billboard 200. Produced with Alysa Vanderheym and featuring stars like Noah Kahan, Patterns earned critical praise and award nominations for tracks like “Cowboys Cry Too,” which snagged Globe Music Event nominations.
Fresh off her headlining arena tour, Ballerini is poised to deliver one of the most compelling country performances ACL has staged.
How to Attend
Tapings for both artists will take place at ACL Live at The Moody Theater, 310 W. 2nd St., Austin. Free taping-pass announcements will go live approximately one week ahead via ACLTV’s Instagram, Facebook, and X channels. Episodes are slated for broadcast this fall as part of Season 51 on PBS.
Stay tuned to ACLTV’s socials for taping pass giveaways and more.
Get ready, Chicago! The Windy City Smokeout, Chictown’s signature country‑music and BBQ extravaganza, is back July 10–13, 2025 at the United Center. This marks its 12th edition, and it’s shaping up to be the most mouthwatering yet.
Music Highlights
Thursday, July 10 Headlined by ACM’s 2023 New Male Artist of the Year Bailey Zimmerman, supported by the gritty country‑rock of Koe Wetzel, Shane Smith & The Saints, Bayker Blankenship, and powerhouse newcomer Angel White.
Friday, July 11 Experience Old Dominion (ACM Group of the Year 2024) and breakout star Dylan Gossett, alongside talented rising acts Josh Meloy, Lauren Watkins, and Maggie Antone.
Saturday, July 12 The weekend reaches full throttle with Kane Brown and ACM’s 2024 New Female Artist of the Year Megan Moroney, plus Charles Wesley Godwin, Austin Snell, and Kashus Culpepper rounding out the day.
Sunday, July 13 Closing night features country star Jon Pardi and Riley Green, plus exciting newer names like Ella Langley, Sam Barber, and Josh Ross.
With over 20 artists across all four days, this year’s bill blends superstar headliners with aspiring and independent voices in country, Americana, and folk-influenced country.
BBQ + Beer = Chicago’s Tastiest Tradition
This festival isn’t just about music, it’s a curated feast of top-tier BBQ and craft beer. Over 20 celebrated pitmasters will bring regional BBQ firepower from across the U.S., including Chicago legends and national favorites:
Chicago stalwarts: Bub City, Smoque BBQ, Lexington Betty Smokehouse, Chef Art Smith’s Reunion, Green Street Smoked Meats, and Soul & Smoke
Regional stars: Little Miss BBQ (Phoenix, AZ), Hoodoo Brown BBQ (Connecticut), Heritage Barbecue (California), Pappy’s Smokehouse (St. Louis), Dayne’s Craft BBQ (Texas), Wright’s Barbecue (Arkansas), and more.
Expect bold, regional styles and a pitmaster buffet experience that pairs perfectly with live tunes. Note: food is available for purchase separately from wristband access.
Ticket Options & Events
Choose from 4‑day or single‑day General Admission, VIP, or Platinum wristbands.
General Admission grants access to all live music stages, BBQ vendors, and cashless concessions.
Platinum Experience includes premium amenities: golf cart transport, reserved parking, chef‑curated food & drinks, exclusive viewing zones, and concierge service.
Special-ticket events include the Friday “Biggest Happy Hour of the Summer” and the bottomless Sunday BBQ Brunch, open to 4‑day or Sunday pass holders. Brunch features live acoustic sets, mimosas, build-your‑own Bloody Marys, and buffet‑style BBQ favorites.
Why Windy City Smokeout Stands Out
This festival is one of Chicago’s only dedicated country‑music weekends downtown, blending big names and local talent across four days.
Its location at the United Center parking lot offers urban energy combined with the intimacy of an open‑air BBQ festival.
Curated by Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants and festival promoter Ed Warm, Smokeout consistently marries top-tier music with top-tier pitmasters, earning its status as one of the premier country + BBQ events in the country.
MORE INFO
Getting here: United Center is at 1901 W Madison St, easily reachable via public transit or ride share.
Stay nearby: Hotels in Near West Side and West Loop offer great proximity; consider booking early due to high demand.
Windy City Smokeout 2025 delivers a perfect midsummer mix: rising and established country stars, mouthwatering BBQ with a national and local flair, and Chicago’s festival energy right downtown.
Whether you’re chasing country classics or chasing burnt ends, this four‑day event promises something to savor for every country‑music and BBQ lover in Windy City.
Keep an eye on windycitysmokeout.com and the festival’s social channels for updates and more info.
Isabel Dumaa may not have been the most familiar name on this year’s Summerfest lineup, but by the time her set wrapped on Friday, it was clear Milwaukee had just witnessed one of the best breakout acts of the festival. Performing a late-afternoon set on the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard stage, Dumaa brought the kind of warmth, charm, and raw talent that instantly made fans out of first-time listeners.
Armed with a guitar and a voice that blends vulnerability with polish, the California-born singer-songwriter shared originals from her debut project Just My Nature, captivating the crowd with standout tracks like “Quarter Life Crisis” and “C’est La Vie.” Her indie-pop melodies, poetic lyrics, and stage presence made her performance feel both intimate and full of potential, the kind of set that leaves you saying, “Wait, who was that?” before quickly adding her to your playlist.
Isabel Dumaa didn’t need pyro or flashy visuals to win over the Summerfest crowd, just great songs, a clear sense of self, and the quiet power of an artist at the very beginning of something special. Keep an eye on her, we definitely will.
Scroll down to see our favorite photos from Isabel Dumaa’s Summerfest performance (Photos by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
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