Charli XCX took the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival by storm on Saturday, April 12, 2025, captivating the audience with a dazzling performance that transformed festivalgoers into "brats." The pop sensation, known for her vibrant energy and catchy tracks, delivered a setlist that featured songs from her acclaimed 2024 album, Brat, and included surprise guest appearances that electrified the crowd.
Opening her set at 7:15 p.m. local time on the main stage, Charli XCX kicked off the evening with a dynamic rendition of her hit "365," setting the tone for a night filled with excitement and celebration. Her setlist included fan favorites such as "360," "Von Dutch," "Club Classics," and "Unlock It." However, it was the surprise collaborations that truly stole the show.
One of the most thrilling moments occurred when Troye Sivan, Charli’s tour mate, joined her on stage for their remix of "Talk Talk." Wearing a "Protect The Dolls" t-shirt from Conner Ives, Sivan not only brought his vocal talents to the performance but also used the opportunity to support a cause close to his heart, as all proceeds from the t-shirt sales are donated to Trans Lifeline, a charity providing essential services for the transgender community.
But the surprises didn’t stop there. The crowd erupted in cheers when Charli introduced Lorde, who performed the "Girl, So Confusing" remix. This collaboration was particularly poignant, as the song explores the complexities of their relationship as female pop stars navigating admiration and envy. After their performance, Charli embraced Lorde and shouted, "Lorde summer 2025!" teasing the latter’s anticipated comeback.
Lorde, who has been relatively quiet since her last album, Solar Power, in 2021, has fans buzzing about new material. This performance marked a significant moment for both artists, as they had previously discussed the song's meaning and their friendship. Charli shared with Billboard that she had to reassure Lorde about the song's inspiration, stating, "I had to go through the process of telling her that this song is about her and her being OK with that first." Lorde later expressed her gratitude for the collaboration, saying, "There was such a rawness and an immediacy to what I was saying. I love that we truly did work it out on the remix."
As if the night couldn’t get any better, Billie Eilish made a surprise appearance, joining Charli for a lively performance of their hit "Guess." Eilish teased the audience with her signature playful demeanor, delivering her lyrics with a smirk that kept the energy high. The crowd was clearly delighted by the unexpected turn of events, as Eilish and Charli played off each other’s charisma.
Throughout the performance, the atmosphere was electric, with fans dancing and singing along to the infectious beats. The official Coachella livestream captured the excitement, showcasing fans like Alex Consani, Quenlin Blackwell, and Gabbriette doing the viral dance for "Apple," further enhancing the sense of community and celebration.
As Charli wrapped up her set, she left the audience with a thought-provoking message displayed on the screens surrounding her: "Does this mean that Brat summer is finally over????? Idk? Maybe? Yes coz duh it was already over like last year. Wait… was it? No??? I don't know who I am if it's over??? FUCK. Wait… I remembered. I'm Charli. And honestly, I just want this moment to last forever. Please don't let it be over." This blend of introspection and humor resonated with fans, encapsulating the essence of her artistry.
This year’s Coachella Festival, running from April 11-13 and April 18-20, has already proven to be a memorable event, with Charli XCX’s performance marking a highlight. Fans eagerly anticipate her second performance scheduled for Saturday, April 19, 2025, where she will likely bring even more surprises.
Charli XCX’s return to Coachella, after her last appearance in 2023, has been met with enthusiasm, as she continues to solidify her status as a leading figure in pop music. Her ability to engage with the audience, combined with her innovative sound and striking visuals, sets her apart as an artist who knows how to deliver an unforgettable experience.
As the festival continues, one thing is clear: Charli XCX has not only captured the hearts of her fans but also left an indelible mark on the Coachella stage, proving once again that she is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
