Festivals
Our Top 10 Must-See Artists at Lollapalooza 2024

Lollapalooza 2024 is set to be an electrifying celebration of music, featuring an incredible lineup of artists from around the globe. This year’s event will be held from August 1-4, featuring over 170 bands across eight stages in Chicago’s Grand Park. From chart-topping acts to rising stars, this year’s festival promises unforgettable performances across a variety of genres. Here’s a preview of ten standout artists you won’t want to miss:
1. Stray Kids

Stray Kids, the powerhouse boy band from South Korea, has taken the global music scene by storm with their innovative sound and high-energy performances. Formed by JYP Entertainment, the group is known for its unique blend of hip-hop, electronic, and pop elements. Their discography, featuring hits like “God’s Menu,” “Back Door,” and “Miroh,” showcases their ability to seamlessly mix aggressive beats with melodic hooks. Stray Kids are also celebrated for their intricate choreography and powerful stage presence, making their live performances a visual and auditory spectacle. Expect a dynamic show filled with explosive energy and fan-favourite tracks. Head to our review of Stray Kids at BST Hyde Park for a preview of what to expect!
2. Future x Metro Boomin’

The dynamic duo of rapper Future and producer Metro Boomin’ promises a groundbreaking performance. Future, known for his distinctive voice and innovative approach to trap music, has collaborated with Metro Boomin’ on numerous chart-topping hits, including “Mask Off,” “Jumpman,” and “Wicked.” Metro Boomin’s masterful production skills, characterized by his dark, atmospheric beats, perfectly complement Future’s introspective and often raw lyrics. Their collaboration has produced some of the most influential tracks in modern hip-hop, and their live set is expected to be a powerful showcase of their combined talents, delivering an unforgettable experience for hip-hop fans.
3. Megan Thee Stallion

Megan Thee Stallion, the rapper from Houston, Texas, has become a cultural icon with her empowering lyrics, bold persona, and infectious energy. Known for hits like “Savage,” “Hot Girl Summer,” and “WAP,” Megan’s music celebrates confidence, independence, and unapologetic self-expression. Her dynamic stage presence and commanding performances have made her a standout act at festivals worldwide. Megan Thee Stallion’s appearance at Lollapalooza promises to be a high-energy, crowd-pleasing event, filled with her signature charisma and a setlist of chart-topping anthems that will have the audience dancing and singing along.
4. Benson Boone

Benson Boone, the talented pop artist who first gained attention on American Idol, has quickly established himself as a rising star with his soulful voice and heartfelt songwriting. His breakout single “Ghost Town” introduced audiences to his emotive style, characterized by poignant lyrics and compelling melodies. Boone’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth, resonating deeply with listeners. Benson Boone is set to deliver an intimate and captivating performance, showcasing his vocal prowess and ability to connect with the audience through his deeply personal and moving songs.
5. Lola Young

Lola Young, the British singer-songwriter, brings a fresh and authentic voice to the music scene with her soulful vocals and poignant lyrics. Her music, blending elements of soul, pop, and R&B, has earned her critical acclaim and a growing fanbase. Tracks like “Blind Love” and “None for You” highlight her raw talent and emotional depth, often exploring themes of love, identity, and self-discovery. Young’s performances are known for their intimacy and power, drawing the audience into her world with every note.
6. Ethel Cain

Ethel Cain, the enigmatic singer-songwriter, creates music that is both ethereal and haunting, drawing listeners into an immersive sonic experience. Her introspective lyrics and atmospheric soundscapes blend elements of dream pop, indie rock, and folk, creating a unique and captivating sound. Songs like “Crush” and “Michelle Pfeiffer” showcase her ability to craft deeply emotional and evocative music that resonates on a profound level. Ethel Cain’s live performances are known for their otherworldly quality, promising a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience, as she takes the audience on a journey through her evocative and haunting sound.
7. Conan Gray

Conan Gray, the pop sensation known for his relatable lyrics and catchy melodies, has quickly become a favourite in the music industry. His debut album Kid Krow produced hits like “Heather” and “Maniac,” which have earned him a dedicated fanbase. Gray’s music often explores themes of adolescence, heartbreak, and self-discovery, resonating deeply with his audience. His engaging stage presence and heartfelt performances make his live shows an emotional and memorable experience. Conan Gray is set to deliver a dynamic and captivating performance, filled with fan-favourite tracks and his signature charisma.
8. The Last Dinner Party

The Last Dinner Party, an emerging indie rock band, brings a fresh and eclectic sound to the Lollapalooza lineup. Known for their innovative music and dynamic performances, the band’s unique blend of rock, pop, and experimental elements sets them apart in the music scene. Their debut EP and singles have garnered attention for their bold themes and infectious energy. The Last Dinner Party’s live shows are a whirlwind of energy and creativity, promising an unforgettable experience for festival-goers (check out our recap of their tour date in Vancouver here). At Lollapalooza 2024, they are set to make a lasting impression with their eclectic sound and vibrant stage presence.
9. Hozier

Irish singer-songwriter Hozier, known for his soulful voice and evocative songwriting, returns to the stage with a powerful set at Lollapalooza. His breakout hit “Take Me to Church” catapulted him to international fame, followed by critically acclaimed tracks like “Movement” and “Too Sweet.” Hozier’s music often explores themes of love, spirituality, and social justice, delivered with a blend of folk, soul, and rock influences. His live performances are marked by their emotional intensity and powerful vocals, creating a deeply moving experience for the audience. Hozier’s headlining set a promises to be a highlight of the festival.
10. Boywithuke

Boywithuke, the enigmatic artist known for his unique blend of ukulele-driven pop and heartfelt lyrics, has quickly gained popularity with his charming and intimate music. Songs like “Toxic” and “Two Moons” showcase his ability to craft catchy melodies and relatable lyrics that resonate with listeners. Boywithuke’s performances are characterized by their authenticity and simplicity, creating a personal connection with the audience. His set promises to be a delightful and engaging experience, bringing his unique sound and heartfelt performances to the festival stage.
Festivals
FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver – Kaytranada
The FIFA Fan Festival™ at the PNE closed out another memorable week on Sunday with the biggest match in world football and a fitting musical finale. Fans packed the site well before kickoff, creating a sea of jerseys, flags, and face paint as they gathered to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina. Every big chance was met with gasps and cheers, and when Spain secured the victory, the celebrations spread across the festival grounds as supporters soaked in the final moments of a month-long tournament.
There was little time for the excitement to settle before the day’s entertainment shifted from football to live music. Montreal’s Kaytranada took over the Amphitheatre stage, giving fans one last reason to keep the energy going after the trophy presentation. Known for blending house, hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music into a sound that feels uniquely his own, Kaytranada delivered exactly the kind of set the festival needed to close the weekend.
With Spain crowned world champions and Kaytranada providing the soundtrack to the celebration, the FIFA Fan Festival wrapped up another successful day at the PNE. It was a reminder that throughout the tournament, football and music proved to be the perfect combination, bringing thousands of people together to celebrate on and off the pitch.
Check out our favourite photos of the night below or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!
KAYTRANADA










All Photo Credit: Caroline Charruyer
Festivals
FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver – The Dead South, Jesse Roper, Colin James
The FIFA Fan Festival™ at the PNE Grounds delivered another full day of football and live music on Saturday, July 18, as fans packed the site to watch the FIFA World Cup third-place match before spending the afternoon discovering Canadian talent across the festival stages.
The day opened with one last piece of World Cup drama before the tournament finale. England defeated France in the third-place match, giving English supporters plenty to celebrate before the music began. Groups wearing England shirts could be spotted throughout the grounds after the final whistle, adding to the lively atmosphere that has become a daily feature of the Fan Festival.
Once the football wrapped up, the focus shifted to the Amphitheatre and Park Stage. Vancouver’s own Jesse Roper was among the first artists we caught, bringing his signature blues-rock sound to an enthusiastic crowd. His guitar work and easy stage presence made for a strong start to the afternoon, with plenty of fans gathering in front of the stage despite a full day of entertainment still ahead.
Over on the Park Stage, Canadian blues-rock legend Colin James reminded everyone why he has remained one of the country’s most respected performers for decades. His set mixed polished musicianship with plenty of groove, drawing listeners of all ages who appreciated every guitar solo and familiar chorus.
The Dead South closed out the day. The Saskatchewan quartet’s blend of bluegrass, folk and country proved to be a perfect fit for the outdoor setting. Fans sang along, clapped in time and danced throughout the performance.
With the World Cup final less than 24 hours away, there was already a sense that the tournament was nearing its conclusion. Even so, July 18 showed that the FIFA Fan Festival remained much more than a place to watch football. It continued to bring together sport, live music and community in a way that has made it one of Vancouver’s standout events of the summer.
Check out our favourite photos of the night below or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!
THE DEAD SOUTH







JESSE ROPER





COLIN JAMES



FANS



All Photo Credit: Caroline Charruyer
