Starting off on a strong note, Lollapalooza 2025 opened with clear skies, 70 degree weather and a sense of anticipation in the air.
Tyler, The Creator and Luke Combs took to T-Mobile and Bud Light stages, respectively, as the day’s headliners, leaving it all on the table with highly engaging sets. Other performances included Dom Dolla, Gracie Abrams, Xdinary Heroes, Cage the Elephant and Role Model.
Silly Goose brought its unquestionably unique style to The Grove at 12:00 p.m., their first performance at a festival like Lollapalooza. Lead vocalist, Jackson Foster, sat down with The Daily Illini for a discussion of the band’s beginnings and future plans, which you can read here.
Jade LeMac brought the vocal stylings of Vancouver to Chicago with her set at 12:45 p.m. on Tito’s stage. Despite being a young artist, LeMac has faced many challenges — most of which have contributed to her ability to stand out, you can read more in her interview here.
Ratboys showed off their chemistry and genuine love for one another in an interview following their afternoon performance. You can read more about the band who has been making music for over a decade here.
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Sierra Ferrell took to the Bud Light stage at 4:45 p.m. and left behind a performance that fused both traditional Americana music with modern day lessons. Blending modern instruments with traditional ones, highlights Ferrell’s theme of revival. You can learn more about her set here.
Magdalena Bay delivered a dream-like performance at LakeShore stage Thursday afternoon, the duo putting on a performance that could have doubled as something you’d imagine in a half-asleep trance. The L.A. based duo rose to prominence after its recent album release, “Magdalena Bay,” dream-wave pop and hazy instrumentals that turned them into a modern sensation.
Gracie Abrams had crowds flocking to the T-Mobile stage for her 7:00 p.m. performance, only for something to still be left desired. An opinionated review of her set can be found here.
2hollis electrified Thursday evening with a brazen and unflinching performance of electronica and experimental rap. His distinct electronic sound turned The Grove into a rave, with nonstop energy and pulsating beats. You can read more about his set here.
Luke Combs made his mark on the Bud Light stage at 8:30 p.m. as Lollapalooza’s first country headliner. He made sure to prove his worthiness with a highly engaging performance which you can read more about here.
Tyler, The Creator finished off Thursday night with undeniable energy and a headlining act that reminded the audience that he is one of the best rappers of today. Tyler, the Creator gave a theatrical performance of both old songs and old, making the audience stay true to the No. 1 rule of “Don’t Tap The Glass” — No sitting still. Read more about his headlining set here.
