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.
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.
AJR headlines the American Family Insurance Amphitheater in Milwaukee, WI on July 4, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Summerfest’s American Family Insurance Amphitheater buzzed with excitement as AJR, Carly Rae Jepsen, and MXMTOON took the stage for a night of unforgettable performances. The amphitheater, packed with a lively mix of young adults and families, resonated with anticipation and enthusiasm.
AJR kicked off the night with their energetic opener “Maybe Man,” followed by crowd favorites “Sober Up” and “Yes I’m A Mess.” The atmosphere was electric, with the audience singing along and dancing to every beat. The band’s signature humor and engaging stage presence made the performance not just a concert, but a full-on entertainment experience.
One of the highlights of the evening was when AJR performed “World’s Smallest Violin” amidst the crowd, creating an intimate and memorable moment for everyone present. Their connection with the audience was palpable, making the large venue feel surprisingly personal.
Carly Rae Jepsen, a special addition to the show, brought an extra layer of excitement. Though not currently touring with AJR, her performance was a delightful bonus for the fans. Her infectious energy and hit songs kept the crowd buzzing, adding to the night’s vibrant atmosphere.
MXMTOON, touring with AJR, opened the night with a charming set that perfectly set the tone for the evening. Her relatable lyrics and soothing voice were a hit, especially with the younger audience members.
The emotional peak of the night came with AJR’s performance of “God Is Really Real,” a touching tribute to their late father, whose health had forced the band to cancel their Summerfest performances the previous year. The heartfelt rendition added a poignant layer to the otherwise high-energy set, showcasing the band’s versatility and depth.
The night concluded with an encore that included “Weak” and “2085,” leaving the audience on a high note. The Maybe Man Tour has certainly been a journey worth following, and AJR’s performance at Summerfest solidified their status as one of the most entertaining acts around.
Summerfest continues to be a hub of musical excellence, and with performances like these, it’s clear why. AJR, Carly Rae Jepsen, and MXMTOON delivered a night of music, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
AJR headlines the American Family Insurance Amphitheater in Milwaukee, WI on July 4, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
The Allstate Arena and 103.5 KISS FM also hosted performances from Saweetie, Black Eyed Peas, AJR, Bazzi and more on Tuesday night.
Lil Nas X performs at the 103.5 KISS FM Jingle Ball at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL (Photo via Instagram)
BY TER STAFF
As shown by the energetic sold-out crowd, Chicago music fans couldn’t wait for the return of iHeartRadio and 103.5 KISS FM‘s annual Jingle Ball. Returning to Rosemont’s Allstate Arena, but with new COVID-19 protocol, the Jingle Ball brought an all-star cast of performers across several genres to make up for an unfortunate year off.
One immediate highlight from Tuesday night’s performances was the cast of musicians that blessed the Allstate Arena and Chicago’s Jingle Ball for the first time. Not only did the lineup’s two biggest performers (Doja Cat, Lil Nas X) perform at Chicago’s Jingle Ball for their first time, but the undercard also welcomed new additions like Dixie D’Amelio and Tate McRae. Of course fans were excited for Bazzi and AJR’s return, but the new blood was definitely a reason fans sold out this year’s show well in advance.
From the moment doors opened until the night’s headlining sets, energy was high throughout the packed arena. The night’s opening performers like Dixie D’Amelio, Tate McRae and Bazzi rewarded fans for arriving on time with short-but-sweet performances. Dixie D’Amelio understood the assignment by staying on theme with a performance of her Liam Payne assisted holiday single, “Naughty List”. D’Amelio, who turned her Tik-Tok empire into a music career, also performed her biggest song to date, “Be Happy” before saying goodbye to her Chicago fans.
Bazzi, who is no stranger to the Jingle Ball Tour, also got the mood going with his biggest singles to date, including “Paradise”, “Beautiful” and “Mine”, which fans sang along to from start to finish.
Perhaps the best performance of the night’s undercard was Tate McRae who showed off her impressive vocals and equally talented dancing skills throughout her 5-track set. Tuesday night marked McRae’s return to the Windy City after blowing fans away at Lollapalooza this past summer.
Photo via Instagram
Throughout the second act of the Jingle Ball’s return, fans were treated to energetic group performances from AJR and Saweetie. Although Saweetie had fans twerking and dancing throughout the venue with songs like “Best Friend” and “Tap In”, it was AJR that burned the house down. The indie pop trio of Adam, Jack and Ryan Met are no strangers to the Jingle Ball, and they go all out, even in an abbreviated performance. One has to wonder how they can have stamina to survive a full set and tour of their own (which will kick off next year with a Chicago date on the schedule).
Next up, Doja Cat did her best to fit in as many as her hits from the past three years as physically possible. With major records like “Say So”, “Juicy”, “Like That”, “Get Into It”, “Kiss Me More” and “You Right”, there was no shortage of hits for her Chicago fans. Doja has yet to announced a 2022 tour, but when she does be sure to get your tickets fast because she puts on a must-see performance, even when sharing the stage with so many other artists.
Although Doja Cat is a hard act to follow, the Black Eyed Peas brought the party to Chi-town with their enormous catalog of hits. From “Boom Boom Pow” to “I Got A Feeling”, the will.i.am led group only brought bangers to their co-headlining set.
Years of hits from the Black Eyed Peas could only be matched by one other artist on the lineup, that being Lil Nax X. The “Old Town Road” overnight star quickly proved he wasn’t a one-hit-wonder with hits like “Industry Baby”, “Holiday” and “MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)”, all of which were performed for the sold-out crowd on Tuesday night. Lil Nas X alone was worth the price of admission and combined with Doja Cat and the Black Eyed Pease, the three were perfect acts to close out an especially memorable night of live music.
The Jingle Ball Tour will resume this upcoming weekend with stops on the East Coast. Check out the tour’s official website for more info.
103.5 KISS FM brought some of the biggest names in music to Chicago’s annual iHeartRadio Jingle Ball.
With a massive headlining performance from the Jonas Brothers, artists like NF, Niall Horan, AJR, Zara Larsson, Why Don’t We and Lewis Capaldi also blessed the stage at the sold out holiday concert.
Check out our photos from last night’s performance below!
Kicking off the second half of the 4-day festival, Chicago’s Lollapalooza is having a great 2019. With one of the best lineups of the festival season, Day 3 was as great (if not better) than the first two days of the Windy City festival, boasting performances from Lil Wayne, Tenacious D, Gunna and Twenty One Pilots to name a few.
Check out our favorite photos from Day 3 of Lollapalooza 2019 below.
The Early Registration 