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The 25 most memorable things we saw at Coachella 2025

BBG News

Each year, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival stands out as the most buzzed-about live music event due to its vibrant blend of various aspects of pop culture.

Over the scorching debut weekend at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, where temperatures climbed above 100 degrees, the excitement didn’t wane. Spectacular moments abounded, like Lady Gaga’s Coachella rock opera, a shocking appearance by Bernie Sanders to introduce Clairo, a steam-powered T-Pain leading crowds of thousands in a 2-step dance, and Gustavo Dudamel and the L.A. Philharmonic backing up LL Cool J during “Mama Said Knock you Out.” The climax was Post Malone’s Sunday night headlining set, which felt equally suitable for sister festival Stagecoach.

The team working on-site collected a list of 25 memorable moments from this year’s Coachella festival, with another performance scheduled for the upcoming weekend.

Music

The first day at Coachella was filled with unexpected moments; for instance, Travis Barker, Machine Gun Kelly, and Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong all made special appearances. Moreover, Blackpink’s Lisa and Missy Elliott put on memorable performances during the event.

FRIDAY

Lady Gaga proved she’s music’s greatest kook in campy Coachella thriller

For over two hours, Lady Gaga showcased an elaborate performance centered around her latest album “Chaos” on Friday night, which has been seen as a comeback to high-level pop music after some years of acting and experimenting (and falling in love). The production was divided into four acts and a finale, but it wasn’t easy to follow a clear or coherent narrative. A voice-over at the beginning hinted that it involved two personas fighting for control of a soul, although this wasn’t particularly evident during the show. (Mikael Wood)

Missy Elliott gets her freak on

Zooming through the vintage hits that made her one of hip-hop’s brightest stars in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Missy Elliott still seemed to be peering into the future in a rowdy main-stage set that served as a kind of victory lap after the long-overdue arena tour she finally mounted last year.
“Work It,” “One Minute Man,” “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)”: Each sounded as crazily inventive today as it did decades ago, Missy’s gum-snapping rhymes laid over her slithering beats just so. Extra props for wearing a succession of intricate costumes — including a sort of wind-tunnel inner-tube look — in the sweltering desert heat. (Mikael Wood)

Lisa demolished the Sahara Tent as a solo star

Fans of Blackpink had previously seen Lisa on stages like the Sahara Tent and main stage in 2019 and 2023, but her Coachella set on Friday stood out as a confident pop star showcasing her unique style. Rising from a massive pillar to the beat of “Thunder,” Lisa was wearing a bodysuit adorned with metal claws and delivered some of the most impressive lead vocals. As she moved into the intense trap rhythm of “FXCK Up the World,” Lisa demonstrated rapid-fire rapping that is rarely heard in K-pop at Coachella. While she’s always been skilled, her performance at this new venue truly showcased her abilities. (August Brown)

On a hot day in the desert, the Marías made it snow at Coachella

On a snowy outdoor stage, Maria Zardoya, dressed in white, led the Marías’ performance from a raised platform. They played “Lejos De Ti,” a Spanish ballad that carried a melancholic tune. To complement the winter feel, the band created an artificial snowstorm on the desert stage. Throughout their set, Zardoya waved a Puerto Rican flag, acknowledged her Latino audience, and even interacted with fans at the barricade. The performance took the crowd through the band’s various phases, playing tracks like “Heavy” from their debut album “Cinema,” “Only in my Dreams” from an early EP, and their latest single “Back to Me.” (By Cerys Davies)

Benson Boone performs ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ with rock royalty

You expected him to wear a shiny disco shirt and do a grand backflip or a few. However, what surprised you – unless you had checked Brian May’s Instagram earlier – was that Benson Boone would give an incredibly accurate performance of Queen’s iconic “Bohemian Rhapsody” during his Coachella debut on the festival’s main stage on Friday night. Accompanied by the 77-year-old Queen guitarist, as well as a large gospel choir in heavenly robes, the mustached pop-rock idol delivered Freddie Mercury’s breath-taking performances – and, more importantly, seemed to be enjoying himself immensely as he navigated each of the song’s numerous rock-opera transitions.

Entertainment & Arts

Over the initial weekend of the Coachella Music Festival, performances were given by artists like Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post Malone, and Travis Scott.

Behind the velvet rope at the Nobu x Red Bull Mirage pyramid

The best dining experience at Coachella this year was provided by the international Japanese restaurant chain run by chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Located inside the Red Bull Mirage pyramid, on a multi-level terrace overlooking the Quasar stage, the temporary Nobu establishment offered an omakase counter and open-air booths where guests could order bottle service from Red Bull or choose dishes directly from Nobu’s menu. (Daniel Dorsey)

Three 6 Mafia brings out Travis Barker, Machine Gun Kelly, Wiz Khalifa

Discuss some iconic ’90s rap tunes, from “Weak Azz B—” to “Get Fly.” The dynamic duo Three 6 Mafia made a big impact with their popular songs and recently invited stars like Machine Gun Kelly, Travis Barker, and Wiz Khalifa to join them for an impressive performance at the Sahara tent. (Cerys Davies)

Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong joined the Go-Go’s

Did you feel like you were getting too hot out there?” Belinda Carlisle, lead vocalist of The Go-Go’s, questioned the crowd of older Coachella attendees as they basked in the warm afternoon sun before the band started their performance with the popular tune “Vacation.” The group primarily focused on songs from their debut album, “Beauty and the Beat,” but invited Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong to join them for a hit from their third album, “Talk Show,” approximately halfway through the set. (Vanessa Franko)

Music

On the second day at Coachella, we had performances from Gustavo Dudamel and the L.A. Philharmonic, T-Pain, Charli XCX, and many others. Don’t miss out on all the action that unfolded!

SATURDAY

Travis Scott had a lot riding on his long-awaited Coachella return

During Travis Scott’s Saturday night finale at Coachella, there were some truly awe-inspiring stage performances that stood out. Dancers seemed to float in the air on cables, suspended within a misty expanse (or hanging like Mussolini). Scott delivered his raps while walking nearly sideways up a wall at an improbable angle, around 50 feet high. He even leaped over a moat with a brass band on a revolving platform that took him above the main stage field. It’s not surprising that Travis Scott chose this long-awaited Coachella comeback to demonstrate his absolute command of the performance space onstage. However, it’s important to note that Travis Scott is currently recovering from the aftermath of the 2021 Astroworld tragedy, where 10 fans lost their lives and he temporarily lost control of events. (August Brown)

Green Day whipped through its decades of pop-punk hits at Coachella

Approximately four decades since Green Day, comprising Mike Dirnt (bassist), Mike Armstrong (vocals and guitar) who formed the group in 1987, and Tré Cool (drums, joining in 1990), first came together in the Bay Area, this iconic rock band remains as polished and dependable as any current touring acts. Green Day effortlessly breezed through their catalog of pop-punk anthems, exhibiting both speed and accuracy, even when performing at large venues such as stadiums to celebrate the anniversaries of “Dookie” (1994) and “American Idiot” (2004). In fact, during their performance at Coachella, one of the few rock acts to headline in recent years, Armstrong and his bandmates expertly engaged the massive festival crowd with interactive routines and high-quality video production.

For years, Armstrong has been modifying lyrics within songs like “American Idiot” to criticize a “MAGA agenda”; he also adjusted a line in “Jesus of Suburbia” to voice his worries for “the children from Palestine.” (Mikael Wood)

At Coachella, Bernie Sanders delivers a warning to the audience about Donald Trump: ‘Disregard him at your own risk’

During Weekend 1 of Coachella, the most impactful surprise appearance was Senator Bernie Sanders, who unexpectedly joined the stage. Right before this, he had addressed a massive crowd at Gloria Molina Grand Park in downtown L.A., where tens of thousands gathered. Accompanied by Congressman Maxwell Frost, a young advocate for his ideals, Sanders delivered a powerful speech prior to Clairo’s performance at the Outdoor Theater at 8:15 p.m.
“America is facing some severe challenges,” Sanders declared. “The fate of our nation lies in your hands. If you choose to disregard what’s happening, you do so at your own risk.” (August Brown)

Post-’Brat’ summer, Charli XCX reminds Coachella who she really is

To some, the realm of Charli XCX is associated with lime green, prominent collaborations, and illicit substances. However, her Coachella performance reveals a different side to her. Whispers rippled through the sea of green-adorned spectators. Was Billie Eilish going to show up? Perhaps Troye Sivan? Nope, it was Addison Rae who graced the Coachella main stage instead. Clad in all black, she stepped onto the stage, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Behind her dark sunglasses, she set the stage’s mood with an emphatic “What the hell?” (Cerys Davies)

Music

Charli XCX returns to the desert and brings Lorde, Billie Eilish and Troye Sivan with her.

Gustavo Dudamel and the L.A. Phil score big with star-packed Coachella set

At the sundown set, it seemed like Los Angeles Philharmonic musicians and conductor Gustavo Dudamel were thoroughly enjoying themselves. This performance marked the conclusion of Dudamel’s 17-year tenure before he moves on to the New York Philharmonic next year. The classical portion showcased popular favorites, such as Beethoven’s Fifth and Strauss’ “Also sprach Zarathustra,” which are among the most iconic melodies of the millennium. However, the diverse array of pop artists added a unique twist to the festival. Zedd amazed the crowd with a gospel choir and an unprecedented backup arrangement. Argentine rap duo Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso electrified the audience with their performance over lively Latin percussion. Maren Morris, Becky G, and Laufey each had impressive collaborations with the orchestra on their pop hits. Dudamel appeared to be captivated when performing alongside LL Cool J, blending John Williams’ “The Imperial March” from “Star Wars” seamlessly into LL’s “Rock the Bells.” LL even gifted Dudamel one of his signature hats as a keepsake. Let’s hope that Dudamel keeps this memento, as Coachella 2025 will become an integral part of his legacy. (August Brown)

Yo Gabba Gabba unleashes Coachella’s inner-child with Flavor Flav, Thundercat and Portugal the Man

Full of enthusiasm, spectators hurried towards the Mojave tent to witness Yo Gabba Gabba’s Coachella premiere. With their vibrant hues, the five characters ignited the crowd, encouraging everyone to shake off their energy in a dance-off and belt out “Party in My Tummy.” Regardless of age, concertgoers participated enthusiastically, singing along to songs like “Don’t Bite Your Friends” and engaging in games similar to Simon Says. To round up the performance, Thundercat appeared onstage in a pink furry cat suit for “The Orange Cat’s Special Time Outdoors,” later sharing the stage with Portugal the Man, Paul Williams, and “Weird Al” Yankovic. The entire act radiated a heartwarming, nostalgic vibe, embodying the essence of Yo Gabba Gabba perfectly. (Cerys Davies)

T-Pain was a living hit machine

T-Pain, a trailblazer in hip-hop and R&B music, stated at the end of his performance that he had spent 20 years to reach the stage. This meant that no one could stop him from performing faithful renditions of two well-known songs: Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” and the classic country song “Tennessee Whiskey.” T-Pain also sang medleys of his early 2000s hits and had his DJ play a famous sample by Michael Jackson, specifically “P.Y.T.,” which Kanye West used in his hit “Good Life” back in 2007. As he moved around the stage set that resembled a post-apocalyptic scene, some may not have realized that T-Pain had adopted a steampunk aesthetic. (Mikael Wood)

Weezer performs at Coachella following incident with police

On a Saturday afternoon under the Mojave tent, Scott Shriner made his entrance, pumping his fist and receiving thunderous applause from the vast crowd that had overflowed. An incident involving Scott Shriner, author Jillian Lauren Shriner, and the police occurred on Tuesday during an independent investigation regarding several individuals suspected of fleeing a hit-and-run accident on the 134 Freeway. The inquiry led officers to a house close to their residence, where they claim they found Jillian with a gun she allegedly used to shoot at the police. In response, the officers retaliated, wounding Jillian, who was taken to a hospital for treatment of non-fatal injuries and later arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. After posting a $1 million bond, Jillian was released from custody late Wednesday. (Mikael Wood)

SUNDAY

Post Malone keeps going country at Coachella

Post Malone wrapped up the initial weekend of this year’s Coachella festival on Sunday evening with a 90-minute concert, where he reinvented some of his popular pop-rap tunes as rustic country songs. Striding onto the stage with a red plastic cup and a cigarette in hand, the 29-year-old singer (who moved to Nashville in 2024 following years of ruling pop and hip-hop radio) kicked off his set with twangy versions of “Texas Tea,” “Wow” and “Better Now.” These tracks seemed as if they were made for Coachella’s country counterpart, Stagecoach (where Post Malone actually started his country phase last year). (Mikael Wood)

Ty Dolla Sign took YG, Tyga and Wiz Khalifa to the prison yard

At the Tycoon Correctional Facility, Ty Dolla Sign appeared in handcuffs and a mask. The stage was redesigned to mimic a prison yard, complete with barbed wire fences, bunk beds, and outdoor gym equipment. Given his reputation as one of hip hop’s most sought-after collaborators, it came as no surprise that his performance included many of his fellow rappers. Ty Dolla Sign brought out YG to perform “Toot It and Boot It,” shared the stage with Blxst and Tyga for “Chosen,” lit up a joint with Wiz Khalifa during “Something New,” and gave Leon Thomas a chance to shine, enabling him to sing his hit single, “Mutt.” (Cerys Davies)

Music

Over the opening weekend of the festival, Megan Thee Stallion delivered an illustrious performance accompanied by a host of stars, while Jennie from Blackpink showcased her talent solo, and there was much more to enjoy.

Megan Thee Stallion’s impressive performance featured appearances by Queen Latifah and Ciara, but was unfortunately interrupted by the festival.

During Megan Thee Stallion’s prolonged performance of her popular songs, she briefly exited one side of the stage. The camera then moved to the opposite end, revealing Queen Latifah standing amidst Thee Stallion’s backup dancers. It took the audience a while to recognize her as Latifah seldom performs nowadays. Megan Thee Stallion returned to the stage and warmly embraced Queen Latifah. Together, they performed Latifah’s 1993 hit “U.N.I.T.Y,” offering a cross-generational lesson on impactful female rappers. (Cerys Davies)

Jennie from Blackpink shines as a solo act with an eclectic set at Coachella

With no blockbuster HBO series like the vacation-murder show to support it, Jennie from Blackpink likely faced a more challenging task during their two solo concerts over the weekend. However, she managed to fill the Outdoor Theater to capacity with her performance that transcended typical club pop music. Her set also highlighted the diverse musical styles and grandiose ballads that her solo career allows her to explore. (August Brown)

Entertainment & Arts

Discovering the ideal outfit for Coachella requires a creative touch. Here’s a peek at some outstanding festival looks that graced the stage at the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.

For the second year in a row, Junior H and Peso Pluma stir the Coachella crowd

As the inaugural Mexican music act on Coachella’s main stage this year, Junior H showcased his melancholic vibe to a massive audience. The “Y Lloro” artist had previously shared the same stage last year as a special guest of his close friend, Peso Pluma. This time around, it was Junior H’s turn to take center stage.

During their emotional rendition of “Luna,” a poignant track from Pluma’s 2023 album “Génesis,” the two corrido tumbado singers collaborated beautifully on this tender ballad. (Cerys Davies)

The best place to cool off at Coachella

On the last day of Coachella Weekend 1, we were finding it hard to keep up with the energy we started with at the beginning. The temperature was in the mid-90s and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky, making the dry grass at the Empire Polo Club fields seem endless. A day like this calls for regular breaks, cold drinks, and plenty of shade. We managed to find some relief at the tiki bar tucked away at the back of the 12 Peaks VIP area, near the Menotti coffee stand. (Danielle Dorsey)

Music

For the last twenty years, The Do Lab has grown into a cherished element within the visual and musical atmosphere of the Coachella Festival.

Up close and personal with Soft Play in the Sonora tent

Escaping the scorching heat and needing a boost, we headed towards the Sonora tent at Coachella, an air-conditioned rock club within the festival. This is where you’ll find many of the punk bands performing, making it one of the most vibrant and refreshing spots, both literally and figuratively.
We witnessed a wildly energetic punk performance by British punk duo Soft Play in the Sonora tent. The drummer, Isaac Holman, and guitarist, Laurie Vincent, even jumped from the stage into the crowd, clearly enjoying themselves so much that they lost track of time and had to adjust their set to align with Coachella’s schedule. (Vanessa Franko)

Shaboozey brings country music to Coachella

In a tight-fitting Nudie suit despite the scorching 100-degree temperature, Shaboozey performed an hour of country music at Coachella on Sunday afternoon, two weeks prior to his scheduled appearance at Stagecoach, its country counterpart festival. A sign on stage read “Coachella’s Country Hour.” The singer-songwriter invited Noah Cyrus onto the stage to perform their song “My Fault,” and he sang “Blink Twice,” a new single from the deluxe version of his 2024 Grammy-nominated album. However, it was Shaboozey’s hit single “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” from the previous year that the crowd had been eagerly waiting for. This tune, which reached the top of the Hot 100 chart, inspired a lively singalong among attendees wearing cowboy hats and retro crop tops. (Mikael Wood)

The hottest act playing Coachella on Sunday afternoon was Meute, literally

Meute, the German techno marching band, stood out during their Coachella performance on Sunday afternoon. Clad in long-sleeved red jackets as part of their uniform, they were one of the festival’s most popular acts despite the scorching heat and bright sunlight. They managed to get a significant number of people dancing under the harsh conditions.

Alex Johnson)

Music

Prior to the commencement of Coachella 2025, Chris Lake kick-started the festivities a day ahead at the festival’s campgrounds.

Enhancement: On the first day, Chris Lake’s dance party at the Coachella campground cheered up exhausted festival attendees.

Before, “Day Zero” was just an additional day for campers to set up and start the party early. However, when it was announced that DJ Chris Lake would be performing on the new Desert Sky stage, the pre-festival festivities took on a more formal feel. This was especially welcome after the lengthy waits endured by campers to enter the campsite, with lines reaching as long as 8 hours. But when Lake began his set at the campsite, it seemed that everyone had forgotten about the long wait. Inside the tent resembling a circus, streams of enthusiastic fans started gathering in the circular area. Inflatable flamingos and waving flags zoomed past, and clouds of marijuana smoke filled the air.

Amidst the throng, a few individuals unveiled their inaugural festival fashion – sporting stylish crochet garments and headwraps. Conversely, others opted for a laid-back, camping style, appearing as if they were in their sleepwear. At the heart of the camping area, which included a general store and various lounge zones, some attendees, still wet from shared showers and carrying toiletries, paused to enjoy Lake’s fusion of deep bass and pop tunes. (Cerys Davies)

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2025-04-14 19:33

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