The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival 2025 kicked off on April 11, 2025, in Indio, California, drawing thousands of music lovers under the sweltering sun. With temperatures soaring above 38 degrees Celsius, even the most dedicated fans found it challenging to cope with the heat. Yet, the festival's opening night was marked by an unforgettable performance from headliner Lady Gaga, who delivered a spectacular show that left audiences in awe.
Gaga's performance was a grand spectacle, featuring five acts and showcasing songs from her latest album, MAYHEM. The stage design was nothing short of extravagant, resembling a multi-tiered dress, and it set the tone for a show that intertwined theatricality with powerful musicality. Gaga opened with her hit "Bloody Mary," emerging from the top of the elaborate set, which was adorned with gothic elements and surrounded by a cast of dancers representing various themes throughout the night.
The performance was not just a concert; it was a narrative journey, seemingly telling the story of her iconic persona, "Mother Monster," being erased and later resurrected. The stage was decorated to resemble an ancient theater, complete with gargoyles and Roman-style columns, creating a dramatic backdrop for the show.
Adding to the night's excitement, DJ GESSAFFELSTEIN made a surprise appearance, performing his track "Killah" amidst the spectacle. Gaga herself remarked, "I decided to build an opera house in the middle of the desert" before launching into her song "Alejandro," hinting at the unique nature of her Coachella performance, specially tailored for the festival audience.
This performance was a significant moment in Gaga's career, reminiscent of past Coachella headliners like Beyoncé and Prince, and it solidified her status as a festival icon. As she engaged with the crowd, her performance was a reminder of why she has been a dominant force in the music industry for over a decade.
But Gaga was not the only artist to make waves at Coachella. Just before her performance, Missy Elliott took the stage, delivering a triumphant set that included hits like "Work It" and "Lose Control," reminding fans of her enduring legacy in the music world. Meanwhile, BLACKPINK’s Lisa showcased her solo prowess on the Sahara stage, performing her new song "Lifestyle" with confidence and charisma.
In a delightful surprise, Queen's guitarist Brian May joined rising star Benson Boone on stage, where they performed the classic "Bohemian Rhapsody" along with Boone's original song "Beautiful Things." Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day also brought his punk energy to the festival, performing "Head Over Heels" with The Go-Go’s, blending different generations of punk spirit.
Emerging artists also shone bright at the festival. Kneecap, an Irish hip-hop group, ignited the crowd with their energetic Gaelic rap, while Lola Young led a singalong to her hit "Messy" despite a brief moment of distress before her performance, likely due to the intense heat and pressure of the festival environment.
As Coachella continued into its second weekend, the excitement remained palpable. BLACKPINK's Jennie took to the Outdoor Theater stage on April 13, 2025, marking her first solo performance at the festival. Dressed in a striking red wine-colored outfit, Jennie captivated the audience with her powerful stage presence, performing 13 songs over the course of 50 minutes, including her title track "Like Jennie." The crowd's enthusiasm was overwhelming, with fans chanting her name and singing along.
Jennie's performance was significant not just for her, but for K-pop as a whole, as she became the first solo K-pop artist to perform on Coachella's main stage. Her set included fan favorites like "Filter," "Mantra," and "Love Hangover," and she was joined on stage by Kali Uchis for a surprise appearance during "Dominate." The buzz surrounding her performance was amplified by media coverage, with outlets like Rolling Stone and the Los Angeles Times praising her for proving her capabilities as a solo artist.
BLACKPINK has plans for a full group comeback and world tour in 2025, with YG Entertainment forming a dedicated project team to support their activities. The excitement for their upcoming world tour is building, especially as they prepare to showcase their talents once again on a global stage.
As the festival unfolded, fans were treated to a glimpse of celebrity fashion, with stars like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber spotted enjoying the performances. Coachella has become as much about the music as it is about the festival fashion, with attendees showcasing their unique styles amidst the vibrant atmosphere.
Coachella, which began in 1999, has grown into one of the largest music festivals in the United States, attracting over 200,000 attendees each year. The festival's dual weekends allow for a diverse lineup of artists and experiences, making it a must-attend event for music lovers and celebrities alike.
As Coachella 2025 continues, fans eagerly anticipate more performances from their favorite artists, with Lady Gaga set to return to the main stage on April 18, 2025, at 11:10 PM. This year's festival is shaping up to be a historic one, filled with unforgettable moments and powerful performances that will resonate with audiences long after the final note is played.
