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
Rolling Loud Announce Move To Orlando For 2026
Rolling Loud will stage its only U.S. festival of 2026 in Orlando, Florida, marking a notable shift for the long-running hip-hop event. Organizers announced that Rolling Loud Orlando will take place May 8–10 at Camping World Stadium, ending a decade-long tradition that kept the festival anchored in Miami.
The lineup has not been revealed, but the festival is promising a full week of “exclusive events and experiences” tied to the main weekend. Presale tickets go on sale Thursday, January 8, at 10 a.m. ET through Rolling Loud’s website, with prices starting at $249. A layaway option will be offered with a $9.99 deposit.
The Orlando dates come after years of Rolling Loud operating multiple U.S. festivals in cities such as Miami, Los Angeles, and New York. That approach has now been scaled back. Outside the U.S., Rolling Loud will still host events in Sydney and Melbourne on March 7 and 8, following recent global expansions that included the brand’s first festival in India last November. Organizers have already confirmed a return to India in November 2026.
Festival co-founder and co-CEO Matt Zingler said the move reflects a broader reset for the brand. In a statement shared via Billboard, Zingler explained that the goal was to bring Rolling Loud back to a summer schedule and build a single U.S. event without trade-offs. He pointed to Orlando’s accessibility and infrastructure as key reasons for the decision, adding that the festival aims to follow where hip-hop culture is headed, not where it has already been.
Rolling Loud began in Miami in 2015, founded by Florida natives Zingler and Tariq Cherif. What started as a one-day event in Wynwood quickly grew into a major destination festival, moving through larger venues before landing at Hard Rock Stadium by 2018. By the end of the decade, Rolling Loud Miami regularly drew crowds exceeding 200,000, becoming one of the city’s biggest music events and a major economic driver.
Over the years, the festival has hosted performances from artists such as Travis Scott, Future, Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, A$AP Rocky, 21 Savage, Latto, and Kodak Black, while building a reputation for spotlighting rising artists alongside established stars. The brand later expanded across North America and overseas, helping solidify hip-hop’s place at the center of the global festival circuit.
News of the move to Orlando has drawn mixed reactions online, particularly from South Florida fans who viewed Rolling Loud as a fixture of Miami’s cultural calendar. The change signals a clear new chapter for the festival as it enters its second decade, with organizers betting on a leaner U.S. footprint and a broader international focus.
Festivals
Governors Ball 2026 Lineup Announced with Lorde, Stray Kids, Kali Uchis, A$AP Rocky, Jennie, KATSEYE
Governors Ball celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2025 with another year of widespread critical acclaim, and today New York’s signature music festival is back to announce its massive 2026 Lineup. Governors Ball will return to Queens’ storied Flushing Meadows Corona Park from June 5-7, once again timed with New York Music Month. This year’s headliners include Lorde, who performed at Gov Ball in 2017 but returns this year as a headliner for the first time; the global K-pop superstars Stray Kids, whose explosive live performances have sold-out stadiums worldwide; and Harlem’s-own returning headliner A$AP Rocky. The lineup also includes Baby Keem, Kali Uchis, Jennie, Katseye, Geese, Major Lazer, Pierce the Veil, Dominic Fike, Blood Orange, Clipse, Mariah The Scientist, Wet Leg, Amyl and The Sniffers, Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist, The Dare, 2hollis, Ravyn Lenae, and many more.
This year’s bill also highlights a strong slate of NYC-based talent – from Geese, The Dare, Del Water Gap, Arcy Drive, and Lexa Gates to emerging hometown favorites like The Backfires and Chanpan, as well as School of Rock Queens, School of Rock New York, and Kids Rock for Kids – underscoring the festival’s continued commitment to showcasing the city’s vibrant music community.
Fans can sign up now for the SMS Presale happening this Thursday, January 8 from 10am – 11am ET. This is the ONLY WAY to guarantee getting your tickets at the lowest price. Sign up here for a presale passcode to secure your spot at Gov Ball 2026. All ticket prices will increase on Thursday at 11am ET when the Public On-Sale begins. Additionally, physical wristbands will return!
Gov Ball is once again offering PIT VIEWING 3-Day and 1-Day ticket types. This ticket offers the same amenities as VIP but includes an exclusive viewing area at all 3 stages just in front of VIP viewing. There is no better view available! Returning premium ticket types this year include GA+, VIP and Cabanas for both 1-Day and 3-Days. For more information, and all ticket type amenities, visit www.governorsballmusicfestival.com/tickets.
Layaway Plans are also available on all ticket types starting at $25 down for a $319 3-Day GA Ticket. Also, local Queens residents (11368, 11355, 11375, and 11367 zip codes) are eligible for a 15% discount on tickets. For more information on all ticket types and layaway plans, please visit www.GovBall.com.
Queens is known for its world-class food, and the festival will once again celebrate the borough’s culinary scene with top local and gourmet offerings, including returning fan favorites. A refreshed beverage program tailored for the New York summer heat will also be on tap. Across the iconic park, attendees can expect immersive fan experiences, standout photo moments, and more. Vendors, activations, and additional programming will be announced in the coming weeks.
Governors Ball will once again kick off summer in New York City with three days of performances from more than 60 artists across three stages. Easily accessible from all five boroughs, the festival is less than 30 minutes away by train, with both the 7 train and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) providing direct service to the park.