Post Malone’s music may be evolving, but one thing hasn’t changed: the man knows how to put on a show.
Performing under the lights at Chicago’s iconic Wrigley Field, Post brought the latest leg of his tour to the Windy City and gave fans a night packed with heart, hits, and a whole lot of twang. The setlist pulled from every era of his career—hip-hop, heartbreak, and now, honky-tonk—with fans singing along whether he was crooning country ballads or turning up to “Wow.” and “Congratulations.”
Leaning into his new cowboy persona, Post still showed plenty of love to the rap songs that made him a household name. From “Rockstar” to “Psycho” to “I Fall Apart,” he made sure longtime fans felt seen. But it was the new material that really gave the night its flavor. Country Post is officially here, and it works. Songs like “I Had Some Help” had the crowd swaying with their arms around each other, while the stripped-down acoustic moments gave the sold-out stadium a chance to breathe, cheer, and cry (yes, people cried).
Posty was in great spirits all night—grinning, sipping out of a red Solo cup, and thanking the crowd a dozen times over. And the visuals? Fire. Literally. With flames shooting up from the stage and a lighting rig that followed him like a spotlighted lasso, every moment felt tailor-made for your camera roll.
It was a reminder that even as Post Malone continues to genre-hop, his live show remains one of the most consistent and entertaining in the game.
Scroll down to check out our favorite photos from the night, and trust us, if you missed this one, make sure you don’t miss him next time he rides into town.
Photo by Julian Dakdouk, Courtesy of Parkwood Entertainment
BY DAN GARCIA
Beyoncé might not control the weather, but don’t be surprised if she starts trying.
What was supposed to be a breezy spring night for the launch of The Cowboy Carter Tour in Chicago turned into a rain-soaked, lightning-filled test of patience, endurance, and fandom. But despite the hours-long weather delay that sent fans scurrying to Soldier Field’s covered concourses and pushed the concert start time past 10 p.m., Beyoncé didn’t just save the show, she turned the storm into part of the spectacle.
With severe thunderstorm alerts hitting the greater Chicagoland area Thursday afternoon and torrential rain flooding the stadium gates, Soldier Field issued the official word around 5 p.m.: The show would be delayed and wouldn’t begin before 9 p.m. Fans, many in full western-inspired glam, waited it out in ponchos and boots, crowding under awnings and huddling beneath stairwells, clutching their glittering cowboy hats in their hats to save their outfits from the heavy winds. The concourse buzzed with excitement and frustration, but no one dared leave, not when the Queen was still set to take the stage.
When the lights finally dimmed at 10:15 p.m., hours behind schedule, the eruption from the crowd said it all. The storm may have flooded the parking lots, but it couldn’t dampen Beyoncé’s thunder.
Beyoncé opened with “AMERIICAN REQUIEM,” the soaring curtain-raiser from Cowboy Carter, emerging in gold on a massive stage that stretched deep into the crowd. The stormy night immediately shifted into sacred territory. From there, she rolled into a cover of The Beatles’ “Blackbird,” and used the moment to connect with the crowd after the delay:
“Thank you guys for your patience through the weather. Thank you for all your love, even throughout the storm,” Beyoncé said with a smile. “Y’all are here, I am here, and we’re gonna have ourselves a good ole time.”
She wasn’t lying. From there, the show exploded with powerful visuals and emotional punch. Her soulful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” (in the style of Jimi Hendrix) bled seamlessly into “Freedom,” which hit even harder under the post-storm skies. “YA YA” followed, with choreography that nodded to her Super Bowl show, while “Why Don’t You Love Me” reintroduced early Beyoncé sass into the cowboy universe.
Photo by Raven Varona, Courtesy of Parkwood Entertainment
As she transitioned into the second act with “AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM” behind a transparent podium, the political messaging ramped up. That led into the spaghetti western spectacle of “SPAGHETTII,” followed by hat-tipping versions of “Formation,” “MY HOUSE” (complete with a collapsing inflatable red house), and “Diva.”
The next act ushered in ballads and boundary-pushers, including “ALLIIGATOR TEARS,” the flirty “JUST FOR FUN,” and “PROTECTOR,” (with a special cameo from Rumi Carter) which brought a tender moment to the arena. After an emotional interlude, “FLAMENCO” and “DESERT EAGLE” brought back the footwork, followed by the atmospheric “RIIVERDANCE” and “II HANDS II HEAVEN.”
A standout of the night came next: during “TYRANT,” Beyoncé faced off with a golden mechanical bull. Then came “THIQUE” and the sultry denim-styled “LEVII’S JEANS,” followed by the genre-melting “SWEET ★ HONEY ★ BUCKIIN’,” which blended elements of “PURE/HONEY” and “SUMMER RENAISSANCE.”
Entering the second half of the long night, Beyoncé delivered the crowd-favorite “TEXAS HOLD ’EM” to deafening screams before firing into a run of classics, “Crazy in Love,” “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” “Love on Top,” “Irreplaceable,” and “If I Were a Boy”, as Soldier Field turned into one massive singalong.
She floated above the crowd during her now-iconic cover of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” before bringing it back to her southern roots with “Daddy Lessons” and “BODYGUARD.” The party didn’t stop as she rode the neon horseshoe to the B-stage for “CUFF IT,” then gave fans the silky slow jam “Dance for You.”
“HEATED” and her cover of “Before I Let Go” brought out full choreography and pure crowd energy, and then came one of the most jaw-dropping moments of the night: during “DAUGHTER,” Beyoncé sat at a gold-plated piano, only for the piano to suddenly erupt in flames. The effect was fiery, bold, and pure Beyoncé.
Closing the show was a Renaissance redux of “I’M THAT GIRL,” “COZY,” and “ALIEN SUPERSTAR,” complete with LED visuals, intergalactic staging, and golden costuming that evoked her 2023 tour, but elevated. Then, in one final act of triumph, she returned in an American flag dress for the stunning “16 CARRIAGES,” gliding above the stadium in a floating car, before closing with the emotional, red-white-and-blue finale “AMEN.”
And yes, the concert didn’t end until 1 a.m. Luckily, the City of Chicago literally extended its curfew, a treatment that only an artist of such magnitude would warrant.
From sheltering in place to shouting lyrics into the post-midnight air, Beyoncé’s Chicago faithful proved their devotion. And Beyoncé, ever the showwoman, proved that even a thunderstorm can’t dim her spotlight.
After all, when the Queen says we’re gonna have ourselves a good ole time—she means it. Rain or shine.
After more than a half a decade without a major tour and fresh off her Las Vegas residency, Katy Perry made her grand return to the road with The Lifetimes Tour and Chicago got one of the first sparkling glimpses.
Performing at the United Center on Monday night, the pop powerhouse proved she’s still one of the genre’s most theatrical and hit-packed performers. From the second she emerged in a shimmering silver bodysuit, descending amid a dazzling burst of light like a disco ball turned human, Perry commanded the attention of a packed arena like few others can.
The setlist played out like a well-curated time capsule of the last 15 years in pop music. Early fan favorites like “Hot n Cold” and “Waking Up in Vegas” brought the nostalgic energy, while chart-toppers like “Teenage Dream” and “Firework” were delivered with arena-sized spectacle and emotion. But this wasn’t just a retro greatest-hits parade. Perry smartly wove in newer tracks like “Woman’s World” and “Electric,” showing she’s still evolving and isn’t afraid to blend synth-forward, pop-futurist textures into her sound.
Between songs, Perry showcased her signature mix of quirk and heart, cracking jokes, making a few perfectly awkward dad-worthy puns, and sharing reflections on motherhood, creativity, and what it means to live through several “lifetimes” in the public eye.
The staging was grand and often cinematic, think oversized flower props, digital dreamscapes, and one jaw-dropping moment involving a lifesize, animatronic carousel horse. And yes, the costume changes were as frequent as they were fantastic: campy, couture, and always uniquely Katy.
While Perry may no longer dominate the charts the way she once did, her live show reminded everyone in attendance just how deep her catalog runs and how enduring her star power truly is. For a generation of fans who grew up with her, Monday night felt less like a comeback and more like a triumphant reunion.
For those who missed this tour stop? Consider this your notice: Katy Perry is back and she still knows how to throw a damn good pop party.
Next month, Washington, D.C., transforms into the epicenter of global LGBTQ+ celebration as the World Pride Music Festival takes over the RFK Festival Grounds on June 6–7. Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Capital Pride, this two-day extravaganza promises over 60 performances across three stages, blending pop, electronic, drag, and queer artistry into an unforgettable experience.
Jennifer Lopez brings her iconic energy to the stage, delivering chart-topping hits and electrifying dance routines.
Troye Sivan, known for his synth-pop anthems, is set to captivate the audience with his emotive performances.
Zedd will close the festival with a high-octane DJ set, ensuring the weekend ends on a euphoric note.
Other notable performers include Kim Petras, Rita Ora, RuPaul, Sofi Tukker, Raye, Purple Disco Machine, Paris Hilton, Tinashe, and Reneé Rapp. The festival also features dynamic drag performances from stars like Sasha Colby, Symone, and Asia O’Hara, alongside DJ sets from LP Giobbi, Dombresky, and Spencer Brown.
🌈 Immersive Festival Experience
Beyond the music, attendees can explore interactive art installations, savor diverse culinary offerings—including vegan and gluten-free options—and enjoy specialty cocktail lounges. The festival grounds are designed to be a vibrant, inclusive space celebrating LGBTQ+ culture and community.
🎟️ Tickets & Access
General Admission (GA) and VIP tickets are available, with VIP perks including front-of-stage viewing, air-conditioned restrooms, and exclusive lounge areas. Tickets are selling fast, so secure yours soon to be part of this historic event.
🏳️🌈 More Than a Festival
The World Pride Music Festival is part of a broader series of events celebrating LGBTQ+ pride and rights. Highlights include the Capital Pride Parade, the Human Rights Conference, and various cultural exhibitions throughout the city.
📍 Plan Your Visit
For more information on event schedules, ticket purchases, and travel accommodations, visit the official World Pride Music Festival website: worldpride25.com.
Milwaukee got a full blast of nostalgia on Saturday night as The Millennium Tour rolled into town, packing the Fiserv Forum with screaming fans, throwback vibes, and a stacked lineup that made it feel like the early 2000s never left.
From start to finish, this diverse tour brought together R&B smoothness, club bangers, and chart-dominating hits that defined an era. With Trey Songz, Rick Ross, Omarion, Bow Wow, Plies, Boosie, the Ying Yang Twins, RSVP (Ray J, Sammie, Bobby V and Pleasure P) and Nivea all taking the stage, this year’s edition of the tour leaned heavy on nostalgia without ever feeling dated. The energy? Immaculate. The setlist choices? All killer, no filler.
Nivea Starts the Night With Sass and Soul
Opening up the evening was R&B singer Nivea, who warmed up the crowd with soulful vocals and serious Y2K diva energy. Her time on stage may have been short, but with a classic like “Don’t Mess With My Man,” she had R&B fans singing every word.
Ying Yang Twins Didn’t Make Fans “Wait”
Next up were the Ying Yang Twins, and if anyone thought a Saturday night in Milwaukee needed a jumpstart, these guys made sure that wasn’t the case. Their club anthems like “Salt Shaker” and “Wait (The Whisper Song)” had the crowd moving like it was a crunk-era basement party. It’s impressive how this ATL duo can still bring this much chaotic, booty-shaking energy with nothing but a couple of mics and massive charisma.
RSVP: An R&B Dream Team
RSVP—made up of Ray J, Sammie, Bobby V, and Pleasure P (formerly of Pretty Rick) —proved that R&B supergroups are still very much a vibe. Each brought their own solo hits to the stage, while also showing off their synergy as a group. Between the outfits, dancing, and playful energy, they served up pure entertainment and some of the smoothest moments of the night.
Boosie Brings the Unfiltered Energy
When Boosie hit the stage, the energy turned all the way up. He brought his signature raspy intensity and straight-from-the-block realness to the Fiserv Forum, performing street anthems like “Wipe Me Down” and “Set It Off” that had the entire building yelling along. Boosie doesn’t sugarcoat a thing—his set was raw, passionate, and unapologetically Boosie. The crowd ate up every minute, reminding us that his music still hits just as hard in 2025 as it did back in the day.
Plies Brings the Southern Swagger
Following Boosie, Plies delivered one of the most charismatic sets of the night. With tracks like “Bust It Baby,” “Shawty,” and “Hypnotized,” he brought that distinct Southern charm mixed with club-ready confidence. His stage presence was effortless, vibing with the crowd and making it feel like we were all invited to a private party. Plies knows his hits have aged like fine wine, and he served them with style.
Rick Ross Delivers a Masterclass in Swagger
When Rick Ross took the stage, it felt like the whole arena shifted. The Boss, and the biggest name on the lineup, brought a sense of grandeur to his set, commanding the stage with luxury, confidence, and a string of anthems like “Hustlin’” and “Aston Martin Music.” He didn’t need theatrics, his catalog and presence were more than enough.
Omarion Brings the Smooth
Omarion’s performance was part concert, part dance clinic. From “Ice Box” to “Touch,” the former B2K frontman moved like he hasn’t aged a day. He might have had the most well-rounded set of the night—equal parts sultry, nostalgic, and high energy. And yes, the signature moves made an appearance.
Bow Wow Proves He’s Still Got It
Bow Wow entered with the confidence of someone who’s been doing this since before he hit puberty and he reminded the Fiserv crowd why he was once the prince of teen rap. From “Let Me Hold You” to “Bounce With Me,” he delivered a crowd-pleasing set that had everyone singing and was far from “lil”.
Trey Songz Closes With R&B Fireworks
Trey Songz took the headline spot and absolutely delivered with a seductive, high-energy finale that capped off the night perfectly. Songs like “Bottoms Up,” “Say Aah,” and “Can’t Help But Wait” proved why he’s still a dominant voice in modern R&B. He brought just the right mix of vocal acrobatics, shirtless moments, and crowd interaction to send fans home smiling.
A Nostalgic Night Worth Every Minute
While each artist had around 15 to 30 minutes, none of the sets felt rushed or incomplete. In fact, the brevity meant there was no room for fille, just hit after hit, woven together into a non-stop mixtape of our teenage years. The production was slick, the transitions smooth, and the love in the crowd was undeniable.
The Millennium Tour has always been more than just a concert, it’s a celebration of an era, a shared playlist of our formative years and perhaps our iPad Nanos, and a reminder that good music never gets old. Milwaukee showed up and showed out, and this tour proved it’s still got plenty of gas in the tank.
Kid Rock performs during his high-energy headlining set at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, WI, on March 29, 2025 (Photo by Dan Garcia).
Last night Kid Rock brought his no-holds-barred spring tour to Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum, and as expected, it was nothing short of a wild ride. Blending rock, country, rap, and rebellion into one explosive performance, the genre-bending icon packed the arena with a set that spanned decades of hits, crowd-pleasing anthems, and a few surprises thrown in for good measure.
Known for his unapologetic attitude and larger-than-life stage presence, Kid Rock gave fans exactly what they came for—an electrifying mix of classics like “Bawitdaba,” “Cowboy,” and “Picture,” alongside newer cuts that prove he’s still got something to say. With lights flashing, guitars wailing, and the crowd on their feet for nearly the entire show, the night served as a reminder of why he’s been able to command stages for over 30 years.
Kicking off the night was none other than Chris Janson, one of country music’s most exciting live acts. With hits like “Buy Me A Boat,” “Good Vibes,” and his latest single climbing the country charts, Janson got the crowd warmed up with infectious energy and a high-octane set that had the Fiserv Forum singing along long before Kid Rock took the stage.
Check out our favorite photos from the night below and relive one of Milwaukee’s most rowdy nights of the year.
Role Model made his Madison debut at The Sylvee for his No Place Like Tour on Tuesday night (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
There may be “No Place Like” home, but Role Model sure made The Sylvee feel pretty close to it Tuesday night. The rising pop star brought his “No Place Like” Tour to Madison, Wisconsin last night, captivating a packed crowd with his signature blend of vulnerability, swagger, and self-deprecating charm.
With a new viral hit under his belt and a growing reputation from his recent stint opening for Gracie Abrams, Role Model proved that he’s no longer just a supporting act—he’s a main event.
Opening the show was singer-songwriter Debbii Dawson, who immediately set the tone with her nostalgic yet fresh take on pop. Seamlessly blending modern sensibilities with retro influences, Dawson delivered a magnetic set that showcased her unique sound and emotional depth. She performed standout tracks from her How To Be Human project, which reflected on themes of solitude and escapism. Her newest single, the electric “You Killed The Music,” shimmered live with a disco-tinged sadness, capturing the audience’s attention with both style and substance. Having previously toured with the likes of Orville Peck and Suki Waterhouse, Dawson’s trajectory is clearly on the rise.
When Role Model took the stage, it was with the energy of someone who’s been waiting to headline. Kicking off the set with “Writing’s on the Wall,” Role Model, who jokingly introduced himself as Ed Sheeran, confidently moved through an 18-song performance that wove heartbreak, humor, and hope into one cohesive night. Tracks like “Look at That Woman” and “Scumbag” showcased his knack for raw lyricism and subtle sarcasm, while “a little more time” and “Frances” drew out some of the loudest singalongs of the evening. He’s a self-described diva, and that flair came through in his performance—every move intentional, every note drenched in emotion.
Adding to the evening, Tuesday night’s crowd included some extra special guests: the University of Wisconsin Badgers Women’s Hockey Team, who just days earlier won the 2025 NCAA D1 National Championship. Lacey Eden, Laila Edwards, Maggie Scannell, Chloe Baker, Kirsten Simms (who stunned fans with her clutch game-tying penalty shot and the overtime game-winner), and their teammates brought their championship trophy along for the ride, celebrating in the audience like true fans. Their presence added an extra jolt of local pride to the night.
The biggest eruption from the crowd came during “Sally, When the Wine Runs Out,” Role Model’s current social media smash. Keeping with tour tradition, he invited a fan onstage to join him, making the moment feel spontaneous, special, and utterly TikTok-worthy. The crowd chanted every lyric with the kind of cathartic joy that only a viral song can spark. It was a reminder of how quickly Role Model’s songs can travel from bedroom-recorded heartbreak anthems to massive cultural moments.
He also paid tribute to The 1975 with a cover of “Somebody Else,” bridging generations of emotionally honest alt-pop, before diving into deeper cuts like “Old Recliners” and the tender “Slipfast.” The night closed with “Deeply Still in Love,” a poignant closer that lingered long after the lights came up.
Role Model’s Sylvee stop was a whirlwind of connection, catharsis, and charm. There may be no place like Madison for Role Model, but if Tuesday night was any indication, there’s no stopping where he’s headed next.
Austin’s newest festival, Sips & Sounds, kept the energy high for its second and final day, bringing an electric mix of pop, indie, and alternative acts with a passionate crowd eager for live music.
From Benson Boone’s soaring vocals to AJR’s high-energy, theatrical performance, Day 2 was packed with unforgettable moments. Rising stars like Chelsea Cutler & Jeremy Zucker, Nessa Barrett, and Paul Russell brought their own unique flavors to the festival, while festivalgoers soaked in the good vibes, sipped on curated cocktails and ice-cold Coca-Colas, and embraced the one-of-a-kind festival atmosphere.
Rising alt-pop star Nessa Barrett captivated the crowd with her moody, emotionally charged set. Songs like i hope ur miserable until ur dead and la di die hit hard, proving why she’s built such a dedicated following. With haunting visuals and raw lyrics, her set was one of the most intense and immersive of the festival.
The dream team of Chelsea Cutler and Jeremy Zucker took the stage together, offering fans a heartfelt and intimate set that felt like a shared emotional journey. The duo performed their signature collabs, including you were good to me and this is how you fall in love, leaving the audience in their feelings with every note.
Indie-pop trio AJR (although without guitarist Adam Met) delivered a set that was as much a spectacle as it was a concert, blending their quirky, anthemic sound with playful visuals and crowd interaction. Songs like Bang! and Weak had the crowd jumping, while the brothers’ signature storytelling made for an engaging and unforgettable performance.
Benson Boone proved why he’s one of pop’s fastest-rising stars with a performance that was both heartfelt and explosive. His powerful vocals soared across the festival grounds as he performed hits like Beautiful Things and In the Stars, capturing the raw emotion that has made him a standout in today’s music scene.
Check out our favorite photos from the second day of Sips & Sounds Music Festival:
Benson Boone
AJR
Chelsea Cutler and Jeremy Zucker
Nessa Barrett
Paul Russell
A Perfect End to Sips & Sounds 2025
Beyond the music, Day 2 of Sips & Sounds wrapped up an incredible weekend of performances, atmosphere, and unforgettable moments. From major headliners to exciting new talent, the festival’s debut year set a high bar for what could become an annual tradition in Austin.
As the final notes rang out and festivalgoers made their way home, one thing was clear—Sips & Sounds Music Festival made its mark, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
One of Austin’s newest music festivals, Sips & Sounds, made a grand return on Friday, bringing an electrifying lineup and immersive experiences to downtown Austin. The first day of the festival set the tone for what could become a staple event during SXSW, blending top-tier pop, indie, and alternative acts with a passionate crowd eager for live music.
From Halsey’s powerful headlining set to Khalid’s smooth R&B vibes, Day 1 was packed with unforgettable performances. Rising stars like Suki Waterhouse and Ashe added a dreamy touch to the evening, while festivalgoers soaked in the good vibes, sipped on curated cocktails and ice cold Coca-Colas, and embraced the one-of-a-kind festival atmosphere.
Indie-pop favorite Ashe charmed the audience with her signature blend of introspective lyrics and sun-soaked melodies. Songs like Moral of the Story and Till Forever Falls Apart turned the festival grounds into a singalong, proving that Ashe’s storytelling is just as captivating live as it is on record.
Fresh off a breakout year, Suki Waterhouse transported fans into her ethereal world with a stunning performance filled with hazy indie-rock vibes. Tracks like Good Looking and Moves mesmerized the crowd, solidifying her place as a rising star in the festival circuit.
R&B sensation and Texas native, Khalid, delivered an effortlessly cool performance, setting the perfect tone for a warm Austin night. His mix of laid-back anthems like Better and Talk had the crowd swaying, while his heartfelt connection with fans made his set one of the most memorable moments of the day.
Check out our favorite photos from the first day of Sips & Sounds Music Festival:
Khalid
Ashe
Suki Waterhouse
A Perfect Start to Sips & Sounds
Beyond the music, Day 1 of Sips & Sounds delivered on all fronts—from its beautifully curated setting to the unique blend of rising stars and established headliners. Festivalgoers embraced the experience, making the inaugural event feel like a well-established tradition from the start.
With Benson Boone, AJR, Chelsea Cutler & Jeremy Zucker, and more set to take over on Day 2, the excitement is just getting started. Stay tuned for more photos and full coverage from Sips & Sounds Music Festival!
Benson Boone performs a backflip while performing at the Austin City Limits Music Festival (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Austin is already known for its legendary music scene, and this weekend, Coca Cola’s Sips & Sounds Music Festival is bringing even more energy to the city during SXSW. Taking place at Auditorium Shores, just south of Downtown Austin, from March 7-8, 2025, the two-day festival blends an incredible lineup of pop, indie, and alternative acts with a focus on immersive experiences. With some of the biggest names in music sharing the stage with rising stars, there’s plenty to be excited about.
Here are eight artists we can’t wait to see at this year’s Sips & Sounds Music Festival.
1. Halsey
A true genre-bending powerhouse, Halsey is set to headline Friday night with a performance that’s bound to be an emotional rollercoaster. Whether she’s delivering gut-wrenching alternative ballads or electrifying pop anthems, her ability to connect with fans is undeniable. With five albums under her belt, including the critically acclaimed If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power, Halsey’s live shows are known for their stunning visuals and raw energy.
Her set at Sips & Sounds could bring a mix of fan favorites like Without Me and Bad at Love, along with deeper cuts that showcase her artistic evolution. And if past performances are any indication, she might even throw in an unexpected cover or a stripped-down acoustic moment that leaves the audience hanging on every word.
2. Khalid
Khalid burst onto the scene with Location and has since become one of R&B’s most captivating voices. Known for his smooth vocals and effortless cool, he’s crafted a signature sound that blends soul, pop, and electronic elements into something uniquely his own. His debut album American Teen solidified his place in the industry, and he’s only grown from there, collaborating with the likes of Billie Eilish, Normani, and Disclosure.
His set at Sips & Sounds will be the perfect vibe for a Friday night, filled with laid-back bops and heartfelt anthems like Talk and Better. Expect a crowd full of fans swaying along to his infectious melodies as he effortlessly moves between R&B slow jams and upbeat, danceable tracks.
3. Ashe
If you’re looking for an artist who blends vintage charm with modern indie-pop sensibilities, Ashe is your must-see act on Friday. Her breakout single Moral of the Story became an instant classic, blending introspective storytelling with lush, cinematic production. Drawing inspiration from classic songwriters like Carole King and The Beach Boys, Ashe’s music has a timeless quality that sets her apart in today’s pop landscape.
Her live performances feel like a warm hug, inviting audiences into her world with stunning vocals and intimate storytelling. Whether she’s performing hits like Till Forever Falls Apart or new material, Ashe’s set promises to be one of the most heartfelt performances of the festival.
4. Suki Waterhouse
Suki Waterhouse might have started her career in the fashion and acting worlds, but she’s proven that she’s an artist to be reckoned with in music as well. Her dreamy, hazy brand of indie rock has drawn comparisons to Lana Del Rey and Mazzy Star, blending nostalgic melodies with poetic lyricism. Her debut album I Can’t Let Go showcased her ability to craft deeply emotional tracks that feel both ethereal and deeply personal.
Her live shows bring an atmospheric, moody energy that’s perfect for the festival setting. Fans can expect to hear standouts like Good Looking and Moves, with Waterhouse’s smoky vocals washing over the crowd like a mesmerizing daydream.
5. Benson Boone
Saturday’s lineup is stacked, but one of the biggest rising stars is Benson Boone. A singer-songwriter who first gained attention on American Idol, he quickly carved out his own lane with viral hits like Beautiful Things and In the Stars. His music is full of soaring choruses and deeply personal lyrics, making him one of pop’s most promising new voices.
With his recent success on social media platforms like TikTok and a standout performance at the Grammys, Benson’s fanbase has exploded. Expect an emotionally charged set with powerful vocals, heartfelt ballads, and a few surprises along the way.
6. AJR
If there’s one band that knows how to put on an unforgettable live show, it’s AJR. The trio of brothers—Adam, Jack, and Ryan Met—have built a career on theatrical, high-energy performances that blend pop, alternative, and electronic elements. With hits like Bang! and Weak, their music is quirky, anthemic, and undeniably fun.
Their performances often include elaborate visuals, live sampling, and interactive moments with the crowd. Whether they’re pulling off an unexpected mashup or leading the audience in a massive singalong, AJR’s set is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of the festival.
7. Chelsea Cutler & Jeremy Zucker
Few musical pairings have as much natural chemistry as Chelsea Cutler and Jeremy Zucker. Both known for their introspective, melancholic indie-pop sound, the duo has collaborated on numerous tracks, most notably you were good to me and this is how you fall in love. Their music captures the highs and lows of young adulthood with raw honesty and dreamy production.
Seeing them perform together at Sips & Sounds will be a special treat, as their voices blend seamlessly in live settings. Whether they’re playing their signature duets or performing solo material, this will be an emotionally charged set you won’t want to miss.
8. Nessa Barrett
A social media sensation turned alt-pop star, Nessa Barrett has built a dedicated following with her dark, brooding sound. Drawing inspiration from artists like Billie Eilish and Halsey, she crafts music that’s equal parts emotional and hauntingly beautiful. Tracks like i hope ur miserable until ur dead and la di die have solidified her status as one of Gen Z’s most compelling voices.
Her set at Sips & Sounds will likely be filled with raw energy, moody visuals, and a strong connection with her fans. If you’re into emotional, atmospheric performances, this is one set you don’t want to skip.
Honorable Mentions: Paul Russell & Claire Rosinkranz
With his viral hit Lil Boo Thang, Paul Russell brings a funky, feel-good energy that will be a perfect vibe for Saturday’s crowd. Expect an infectious performance packed with groove and personality. Meanwhile, Claire Rosinkranz has mastered the art of effortless indie-pop, with tracks like Backyard Boy and Frankenstein showcasing her laid-back, youthful sound.
Both of these rising stars are bringing something fresh to the festival lineup, and their sets are definitely worth checking out.
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