Chicago is set to witness a historic moment this summer as country music superstar Luke Combs will become the first-ever country closer at the iconic Lollapalooza festival. Scheduled to take place from July 31 through August 3, 2025, at Grant Park, this year’s lineup promises to deliver an unforgettable musical experience.
Other remarkable artists are slated to perform alongside Combs, including Olivia Rodrigo, Tyler, The Creator, Sabrina Carpenter, RÜFÜS DU SOL, Twice, A$AP Rocky, Korn, Gracie Abrams, Doechii, Dom Dolla, and many more. In total, more than 170 artists will grace eight stages throughout the four days, making it an unparalleled showcase of talent.
For those eager to catch this unique lineup, four-day tickets are available starting March 20, 2025, at 10 a.m. CT. However, fans will need to act fast, as ticket prices are set to increase at 11 a.m. CT that same day. The enthusiasm around Combs’ historic closing performance adds a compelling reason for concert-goers to secure their spots early.
Lollapalooza is not just about big names, though; it’s also making strides to support local talent. This year, the festival is partnering with the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras (CYSO), engaging students in the unveiling of the lineup. Young musicians performed contemporary and classical music, helping to blend the festival’s diverse musical landscape. These performances were shared on Lollapalooza’s social media channels ahead of the official announcement, emphasizing the event’s commitment to showcasing emerging talent.
Lollapalooza has long been a melting pot of genres and artists, and the inclusion of Luke Combs signifies a growing recognition of country music within the mainstream festival scene. The festival’s organizers expressed their excitement, with one representative noting, "We are thrilled to include Luke Combs as our first country act to close such a significant festival." This reiteration of Combs’ impact was further highlighted by his impressive record within the genre.
Born on March 2, 1990, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Luke Combs has carved out an impressive career since his first EP, The Way She Rides, released in February 2014. Over the years, he achieved multiple career milestones, including having his first five singles reach number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Notable singles like Forever After All, Beautiful Crazy, and Hurricane showcase his range as an artist and have often resonated with fans, earning him various accolades including invitations to join the prestigious Grand Ole Opry.
Combs was not just resting on his past successes. He made headlines recently with a cover of Tracy Chapman’s Fast Car, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and performed well internationally, even reaching the UK top 40. Beyond his captivating music, many fans appreciate Combs for his authenticity and relatability in his lyrics, which often reflect personal experiences and emotions.
It’s clear why Combs has grown to become one of the most popular and successful artists in his generation. At 35 years old, he focused on his music career and has remained committed to his roots, blending traditional country sounds with modern influences. His journey from small-town performer to a prominent figure at a cultural event like Lollapalooza is a testament to his hard work and passion for music.
This year's festival will not only highlight Combs but also remind audiences that the world of music is vast, allowing for distinct genres to coexist and thrive together. Lollapalooza's dedication to a broad lineup makes it a key player in the music festival landscape.
As the festival approaches, anticipation is indeed building among fans of all walks of life. The festival will not only serve as a memorable musical experience but will also represent a turning point for country music at large, especially in the context of alternative and popular music.
In addition to the on-stage performances, the partnership with CYSO exemplifies Lollapalooza’s goal of nurturing and showcasing young talent from the Chicago area. With students previously helping unveil the lineup, the festival thrives on collaboration, allowing opportunities for up-and-coming artists to share the spotlight with seasoned performers already well-acclaimed in their fields.
As tickets go on sale, it's clear that the excitement surrounding Luke Combs' historic performance as the first country closer will be palpable. This landmark occasion not only celebrates his incredible achievements in country music, but also reinforces Lollapalooza's commitment to diversity and artistic expression. Those who seize the opportunity to witness this extraordinary event are sure to carry the experience with them long after the final notes are played.
