(Flickr)
Before becoming the luxurious jamboree it is today, Coachella was simply a launching point for up-and-coming alternative and indie rock groups.
In 1993, American rock band Pearl Jam boycotted all venues controlled by Ticketmaster, which overcharged customers, so the group hosted its concert at the Empire Polo Club instead. Their performance cemented the club’s reputation as an eligible spot for large-scale events. The concert promotion company, Goldenvoice, saw the location’s potential for a European-inspired music festival.
Thus emerged the inaugural Coachella festival in 1999, which has since become an annual gathering that dominates the pop culture scene.
From April 10-12, thousands gathered in Indio, California, to experience the first round of this year’s performances, featuring headliners Justin Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, and Karol G, who each delivered unforgettable performances.
Bieber’s highly anticipated return was being dubbed “Bieberchella.” Despite being paid a record-breaking 10 million dollars for his appearance, Bieber delivered a muted act that highlighted his vocals. Among his thirty-song set list were pieces from his latest album, “Swag,” before he transitioned to nostalgic hits like “Beauty and a Beat,” “Sorry,” and “Daisies.”
Contrasting Bieber’s humble display was Carpenter’s extravagant set, “Sabrinawood,” inspired by vintage Hollywood glamour. Carpenter’s performance included 20 hit songs, including “House Tour,” “Feather,” “Espresso,” and “Manchild,” all punctuated by various costume changes, engaging backup dancers, and flamboyant stage elements, including a water fountain throne.
But among all three headliners, Karol G was the only one to make history as the first Latina artist to headline Coachella. In honor of the historic achievement, Karol G delivered an exhilarating performance filled with electric backup dancers, numerous costume changes, and a display of Latino pride. She performed 26 songs, including hits like “TQG,” “Latina Foreva,” “MAMIII,” and “Provenza,” even inviting guest artists Becky G, Mariah Angelique, Wisin, and Greg Gonzalez to share the stage.
Debuting for the first time was international girl group, Katseye, who brought on the singing voices of Kpop Demon Hunters’ Huntrix for an exclusive performance of the Grammy award-winning, “Golden.” The festival also featured the up-and-coming Filipina girl group, BINI, whose infectiously upbeat Coachella debut was another historical moment to be celebrated.
Other popular artists like Laufey, Sombr, Addison Rae, Gigi Perez, Young Thug, PinkPanthress, and TOMORA also took the stage for the festival’s first round of performances, and with all the buzz these performers have generated from Coachella’s first weekend, Weekend Two is sure to warrant even more of a thrill.
