The 19th Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival wrapped up its first weekend in Indio, CA and it was wild. Here’s the best of what we saw.
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1. Beyoncé
Beyoncé shut down Coachella with an epic 26-song set that will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the most iconic performances. The entertainer delivered a highly conceptual and immersive experience for both live and virtual audiences. She used a massive Coachella platform to create something that wasn’t just the highest form of entertainment, but was also a meaningful homage to roots and culture. From incorporating HBCU traditions, to sampling Malcolm X speeches and tributes to Nina Simone and Fela Kuti, Beyoncé’s show was full of history and politics and was an absolute visual treat. This two-hour set became the epitome of vision, creativity, hard work, talent and inclusivity. Not only did she leave us all with our jaws dropped watching her perform live, but she also set a near-impossible standard for the following headliners, broke the internet as Coachella’s top trending artist on Twitter, and had the most-watched performance on the festival’s livestream.
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2. Odesza
ODESZA delivered an incredible cinematic performance with the appearance of 420 Intel Shooting Star drones, jaw-dropping visual effects, a live drumline, and special guests including Leon Bridges, Naomi Wild and WYNNE. The performance was truly one of the most memorable Coachella moments by far.
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3. The Weeknd
The Weeknd played a career-spanning set, performing a range of songs from early standout tracks to some of the hits from his incredible most recent EP My Dear Melancholy. We had a chance to see The Weekend’s Coachella debut in 2012, and the headlining show this year reflected his growth as a performer and songwriter. With the amazing sound, impeccable vocals, beautiful visuals and a very strong energy, Abel delivered an unforgettable set.
4. Daniel Caesar
Daniel Caesar’s show was hypnotizing and very personal. The impeccable sound, raw vocals, Caesar’s stage presence and perfect sunset setting made it one of our favorite shows of the weekend. The Grammy-nominated Toronto artist also brought out H.E.R. to perform the crowd’s favorite “Best Part” from his debut album, Freudian.
5. Benjamin Clementine
Benjamin Clementine’s show was one of our most anticipated performances and it was truly amazing. Despite the terribly early time slot combined with the mishap of Coachella not opening the gates on time, those who managed to make it to his set got to enjoy his greatness and one of the most captivating voices in the music industry. His performance was theatrical and brilliant. Benjamin Clementine is an absolutely unique talent and a true artist.
Other notable performances included:
• 6lack – One of our favorite entertainers and songwriters, his set was fire. We can’t wait to see him headline in the coming years.
• Ibeyi – From seeing them live at The Hotel Café in LA to the Coachella stage, we are always amazed by their undeniable talent, stunning vocals and amazing energy.
• Jorja Smith – Incredibly soulful voice and invigorating stage presence. Jorja Smith is one of the artists we feature on SSW most often. Pure talent.
• Cardi B – Hands down the most honest and authentic entertainer in the game; energetic set with special guests YG, G-Eazy, Chance The Rapper, Kehlani and 21 Savage.
• Kygo – Kygo drew a massive crowd to the main stage. Spectacular show and positive vibes. Guests included Julia Michaels, Jamie Foxx, Ryan Tedder, Rita Ora and Conrad Sewell.
• SZA – Even though she had technical difficulties and problems with her voice, her energy was great and the special guests (Kendrick Lamar, Isaiah Rashad, and Trippie Redd) absolutely killed it.
• Eminem – Very powerful performance. Perfect ending of the weekend with “Not Afraid” and “Lose Yourself” and the appearance of special guests: Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, Bebe Rexha, Skylar Grey.
by Irina Liakh
Images courtesy of Coachella
