Lollapalooza 2025 returns to Grant Park, bringing another stellar lineup of artists that captures the current musical zeitgeist. This year’s festival showcases an impressive blend of breakthrough acts and established favorites, with headliners like Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter and Tyler, the Creator. It’s also an exciting year for artists who’ve found their creative stride, from Grammy-nominated R&B powerhouse Durand Bernarr to genre-defying sensation Amaarae to mega breakout rapper Doechii, a hip hop superstar in the making.
What makes this year’s Lollapalooza especially compelling is its focus on artists who represent the future of their respective genres. Whether it’s Clairo’s sophisticated, downtempo evolution on “Charm,” Mk.gee’s innovative approach to indie rock, or The Marías’ emotionally resonant breakup anthems, the festival promises to be a showcase for music that feels both contemporary and timeless. Here’s our picks for the best-of-the-best.
THURSDAY
Not to Miss: Durand Bernarr; Ratboys; Tyler, the Creator
After years of grinding in the industry, Durand Bernarr is finally receiving praise. Earlier this year, Bernarr earned his first Grammy nomination in the category for progressive R&B album for 2024’s “En Route.” The eight-track EP, created in only five days, marked a significant, yet still compelling departure for the musician, who is best known for his multi-octave vocals. Blending elements of rock and funk with his signature R&B on songs like “Must Be Nice” and “GPS,” Bernarr proved he’s more than just a killer vocalist. Catch him on the T-Mobile stage as part of his ongoing and extensive “You Gon’ Grow, Too!” tour, which has taken him around the world.
Who knew Tyler, the Creator would become one of the most successful and creative breakouts from Odd Future? While the California-based collective sparked controversy when they found mainstream success more than a decade ago, the group’s members (including artists like Syd and Frank Ocean) made a concerted effort to distinguish themselves as individual artists, too. And one of the most successful out of the bunch is Tyler, the Creator. Last year, Tyler released his critically acclaimed eighth studio album, “Chromakopia,” an introspective examination of authenticity and masculinity. Since then, the musician has been on an international tour, where fans get the chance to witness Tyler’s dynamic stage presence and elaborate, immersive production. His headlining appearance on the T-Mobile stage should be a feast for the eyes and ears, and a welcome departure from typical music festival experiences.
It’s always special when a Chicago band makes good and gets a prime spot at one of the city’s major music festivals. And this year, that honor goes to Ratboys. This four-piece, known for their tender, introspective indie rock, broke out in a major way with the release of their fifth and most critically praised studio album, 2023’s “The Window.” Filled with warm power pop (like the nostalgia-laden “Empty”) and alt country flourishes, the record is a perfect encapsulation of Chicago’s diverse indie rock scene. The album’s title track is an especially poignant ditty filled with yearning and loss, one that’s sure to linger in the minds of listeners for years to come. If you were unable to get tickets to their Sleeping Village after-show, this afternoon festival appearance on the Bud Light stage is a must-see.
Best Stage: Besides the previously mentioned Tyler, the Creator and Durand Bernarr, Thursday’s T-Mobile stage also includes Gracie Abrams, Nourished by Time and Barry Can’t Swim, making it one of the more eclectic stages for the day. From the funk-driven soul of Bernarr to the atmospheric offerings from Nourished by Time to the electronic-based sounds of Barry Can’t Swim, the stage lineup is diverse and fun.
Something Else: Gracie Abrams’ massive breakout success comes as no surprise. After an opening slot on Taylor Swift’s “Eras” tour, Abrams captured the hearts of a new fanbase, one eager for more songs brimming with winsome yearning. And while she’s been releasing records since 2020’s “minor,” there was something special about last year’s “The Secret of Us.” Maybe it was the record’s stripped-down tunes, like album closer “Packing It Up,” or her more mature lyrics or viral singles like “That’s So True,” a certified earworm and tongue twister that earned Abrams her first top 10 hit on the Billboard charts. Maybe it was the track “us.,” a collaboration with Swift that also earned the artist a Grammy nomination. Regardless, Abrams has found her footing.
FRIDAY
Not to Miss: Ravyn Lenae; T-Pain; Olivia Rodrigo
As a longtime fan, what a delight it’s been to watch born and bred Chicagoan Ravyn Lenae find real, true breakout success. TikTok is the great musical equalizer and Lenae found herself on the receiving end of its users’ praise with the viral success of her 2024 “Love Me Not.” Quirky and upbeat (despite its lyrics of relatable yearning), the track is a perfect showcase for Lenae’s unique brand of R&B that is equal parts experimental and traditional. But Lenae is more than just a viral sensation, as evident on releases like 2022’s “Hypnos” and 2024’s “Bird’s Eye,” brilliant records that deserve a deeper second (and third and fourth) listen. Later this year, she’ll join Lolla headliner Sabrina Carpenter for a handful of dates as part of her “Short n’ Sweet Tour.” But if you’re not willing to dish out hundreds of dollars for that tour, you can catch her on the Lakeshore stage. Her set is sure to please even the most fickle of festival audiences.
It may have taken a while, but signature late aughts artist T-Pain is finally receiving his flowers. Yes, he may have popularized the use of autotune and vocoder in the new millennium, but the two-time Grammy Award winner is more than just passing trends. In recent concert appearances, the multifaceted singer and musician has let his natural voice shine, proving that underneath his signature production touches is a true artist. In recent appearances, he’s covered tracks like Sam Smith’s “Stay With Me” and Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey.” But that doesn’t mean the charismatic charmer of songs like “Blame It” and “Low” is long-gone. T-Pain’s Lolla appearance on the Bud Light stage is part of the ongoing “TP20 Tour,” celebrating the musician’s 20th anniversary as a solo artist within the industry. Mega hits like “I’m Sprung” and “Buy U a Drank,” perhaps one of the most iconic hits from the millennial club era, have made appearances on recent show setlists.
While she may be one of the biggest pop music sensations of the current decade, Olivia Rodrigo has always been a little more interesting in comparison to her peers. Perhaps it’s her embrace of ’90s pop rock. First heard on tracks like “good 4 u” from her debut album, “Sour,” Rodrigo leaned into her rock-loving instincts with 2023’s “Guts.” Tracks like “all-american bitch,” featuring guttural screams and lyrics like, “I know my age and I act like it,” showcase the singer-songwriter’s cheeky and confrontational musical style. The track “bad idea right?” will remind listeners of groups like Garbage and Elastica. Even early singles like “vampire” sound like a tribute to Meatloaf. If you haven’t given her a chance before, now is the perfect time to jump in and catch her performance on the T-Mobile stage.
Best Stage: Start your day early at the Lakeshore stage with the indie charm of Dogpark before pop rising star Isabel Larosa takes the stage with her sultry, TikTok-viral sound that’s been captivating Gen Z audiences. R&B maven Rayn Lenae and Ghanaian American sensation Amaarae follow. Later, Wallows caps off the stage with their dreamy indie rock anthems (like 2019’s ’80s-throwback single “Are You Bored Yet?”), proving why they’ve become one of the most beloved acts in the poppier contemporary rock music scene.
Something Else: Amaarae can’t be contained. Don’t just call her pop. Don’t just call her R&B. Amaarae exists somewhere else, where genres are penetrable and malleable. The musician’s 2023 record “Fountain Baby” was the perfect encapsulation of this music ethos. Tracks like the utterly danceable “Angels in Tibet” and the Afrobeats-inspired “Princess Going Digital” were a pure vibe and the perfect accompaniment to house parties and lounges. Next month, she’ll release her latest record “Black Star,” which has been described as a more personal album, the effects of which can even be found on the album’s cover, which features Amaarae in front of the Ghanaian flag. New single “S.M.O.” is another sonic stunner, blending elements of highlife with bass and zouk. If you’re interested in a little dance party at the festival, Amaarae is your best bet.
SATURDAY
Not to Miss: Mk.gee; Doechii; Clairo
Unsure of Mk.gee’s rising fame? Just take a listen to Justin Bieber’s latest album, “Swag,” which includes a number of songs that sound like they’re indebted to Mk.gee’s soulful, lo-fi aesthetics (that’s probably because the musician co-produced and co-wrote on the record). That’s not a bad thing, and surely proves why the critically acclaimed musician is primed to stay. Last year’s “Two Star & the Dream Police” spawned a number of singles, including the delightful “Are You Looking Up” and “How Many Miles.” Last fall, the musician released his latest and most successful single, “Rockman.” The song, which sounds like a new millennium interpretation of peak Phil Collins, is actually quite good and hints at what may come next in the musician’s sound (think a little more groove-heavy, while still incorporating his classic, bright DIY flourishes). Lolla doesn’t always get it right with their picks, but they certainly did with Mk.gee, who performs on The Grove stage.
Talk about a breakout. This year has proven to be Doechii’s most celebrated year yet, with a rap album Grammy win (only the third for a woman since the category was introduced more than 30 years ago) and an uber-viral breakout single, “Anxiety.” But Doechii is more than just talk. Her 2024 mixtape “Alligator Bites Never Heal,” was a sharp, eclectic showcase for a rapper who’s bubbled under the surface for half a decade. Tracks like “Boiled Peanuts,” “Denial is a River” and “Nissan Altima,” prove there’s no singular word that can encapsulate Doechii’s music except for “good.” And her 2025 Grammys set (now nominated for an Emmy) shows she’s a few steps ahead of her peers. Theatrical and bright, Doechii is an artist we’ll surely be talking about for years to come. She performs on the T-Mobile stage.
Don’t just classify Clairo as the same as her peers. Her third studio (and first self-released) album, “Charm,” proved this singer-songwriter has a few surprises up her sleeve. Singles like “Sexy to Someone” and “Add Up My Love” were a perfect blend of Carol Simon-esque pop hooks with soulful grooves. But the downtempo “Juna” really surprised listeners. A jazzy and R&B slow burner, the track quickly went viral for its sumptuous, sophisticated vibes and singer Claire Cottrill’s light yet warm vocals. Truly, it’s an instant classic. Earlier this year, the musician collaborated with producer Leon Michels (of El Michels Affair) on the psych-twinged track “Anticipate.” The shimmery, ’70s-inspired track was the perfect next step in the two’s ongoing musical partnership, after Michels produced “Charm.” Clairo’s Lolla set on the Bud Light stage will be the perfect palette cleanser for audiences during what is typically the busiest day.
Best Stage: If you’re looking for something a little different (especially after the loss of the Pitchfork Music Festival), The Grove stage may be your best bet. The artists showcased here are not afraid to push creative boundaries across multiple genres. There is Dua Saleh, the Sudanese American artist whose blend of R&B, hip hop and experimental sounds has earned critical acclaim and a devoted following. Orion Sun follows with her ethereal, dreamy compositions that merge indie-pop sensibilities with introspective lyricism. Genre-bending act Bilmuri brings their unique fusion of post-hardcore and pop sensibilities while Mk.Gee closes the stage with his innovative yet nostalgic approach to indie-rock that feels indebted to the synthy pop of the ’80s and the bedroom pop of late aughts.
Something Else: Doechii isn’t the only eclectic rapper performing on Saturday. Rapper Barrington Hendricks, who performs as JPEGMAFIA, is set to perform on the Lakeshore stage. Fans should expect selections from 2024’s “I LAY DOWN MY LIFE FOR YOU” (featuring the incredible “either on or off the drugs” and “I’ll Be Right There”) and his latest record, “Veteran: Director’s Cut.” Released in June, the record is the next step in the musician’s glitchy, sharp-witted sound.
SUNDAY
Not to Miss: Sabrina Carpenter; Finneas; The Marias
It may seem like Sabrina Carpenter just blew up overnight, but the pop musician has been slowly grinding on the fringes of the industry for more than a decade. First known as a child star on the Disney Channel television show “Girl Meets World,” Carpenter released five records before her breakout album, 2024’s “Short N’ Sweet.” Led by her single “Espresso,” last year’s undisputed “Song of the Summer,” the record hinted at what’s next for Carpenter’s career. Blending elements of country twang on tracks like “Please, Please, Please,” with late ’90s, vibe-heavy, R&B-inspired grooves on “Bed Chem,” the record was a bite-size feast for the ears. If the album cover is any indication, her next record, “Man’s Best Friend,” is sure to ruffle feathers. But the record’s first single, “Manchild,” is a sonic smash-up of her perfect melodies and her ever-emerging country leanings. She performs on the T-Mobile stage.
He’s more than just his sister’s biggest collaborator. On his latest record, “For Cryin’ Out Loud,” musician and producer Finneas embraced a more collaborative approach to his music. Gone are the solo, bedroom pop sounds of his debut. Later this year, the musician will release another record, but this time as part of the band The Favors, which features musician Ashe. We don’t know if this Lolla set will feature any of this upcoming music (which has a more Fleetwood Mac-inspired rock sound to it), but it’ll surely traverse his already rich body of work. He performs on the Lakeshore stage.
“Submarine,” The Marias’ latest album released last year, proves breakup records will always have a place in the hearts of listeners. Traversing the dissolution of the relationship between band co-founders Maria Zardoya and Josh Conway, the record is a tender, sonically piercing feat that blends Latin instrumentals with hazy rhythms. Earlier this year, the group released “Back to Me,” an ominous, synth-heavy wall-of-sound about yearning for a past lover. For listeners, it seems like the complicated dynamic between Zardoya and Conway is not yet over. Their Lolla set on the Bud Light stage is part of a larger tour, which has gained new fans around the country for their vibrant live performances.
Best Stage: The day flourishes with global pop sensation Katseye, the multi-national girl group whose infectious energy and polished choreography have made them streaming darlings (and social media) phenomena. Their set is early in the afternoon at the T-Mobile stage, and sure to attract a large crowd, but that shouldn’t deter you from checking them out. When they inevitably reach superstar status, you’ll have bragging rights for saying you caught them “back then,” before they took over the world. Later, hip-hop veteran Isaiah Rashad brings his laid-back flow. Actor and alternative darling Dominic Fike follows and pop princess Sabrina Carpenter closes the night with her theatrical, charming performance style.
Something Else: The appearance of viral internet sensation Aliyah’s Interlude on the BMI stage is a surprising choice for Lolla bookers, but not that surprising. The festival often includes an off-kilter choice or two, and Aliyah’s Interlude fits the bill this year. While she hasn’t released a full-length record yet, the rapper has released a number of house music-inspired singles, including “IT GIRL,” her fun and campy debut. New songs like “WTF MY DRINK @?” lean into her signature party-girl vibes, but this time with a more ominous tone that at times reminds me of Doechii and Azealia Banks. She may have gained attention for her club-driven fashion choices, but it’s clear Aliyah’s Interlude is more than just her fabulous style.
ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
For entry: Lollapalooza 2025 will take place at Grant Park on July 31-Aug. 3. Gates open each day at 11 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. Maingates are located at Michigan Avenue and Ida B. Wells Drive and North Gate on Monroe and Columbus. Guests are required to have a festival wristband for entry and re-entry and can leave and re-enter the festival two times after entering. Children 8 years old and under may attend for free while accompanied by a ticket-holding adult (limit two per adult).
Stages include Bud Light, T-Mobile, Lakeshore, Perry’s and The Grove, along with the BMI stage, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Kidzapalooza. Each day’s primary headliners perform on the Bud Light and T-Mobile stages, with Perry’s featuring electronic acts.
Updates: For up-to-date information from the festival, follow on Facebook, X and Instagram at @lollapalooza, on the Lollapalooza website, with the Lollapalooza app via Festiverse or through festival emails.
Bag Policy: All bags will be searched before entry. Small clutch purses and fanny packs that are 6 inches by 9 inches or smaller do not need to be clear, but can have no more than one pocket. All other bags must be smaller than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches and clear. Hydration packs are allowed and do not need to be clear, but must be emptied of all liquid and with no more than two main compartments and one smaller compartment.
Lockers: Lockers are available for rent, as are phone chargers. More information available on the festival website.
Safety: Lollapalooza has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, including harassment based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, body size, appearance, age or national origin. Lollapalooza encourages patrons to contact staff if they feel threatened or unsafe in any way.
Patrons in need of emergency medical assistance can go to one of the available medical tents. Lollapalooza has partnered with This Must Be the Place, an overdose prevention nonprofit, that will supply patrons with Naloxone, an opioid reversal medicine, and offer education on Fentanyl.
Lost & Found: Located at the main Guest Services Tent at Columbus and Ida B Wells, and you can also visit https://lollapalooza.liff.app. Also, register your phone with the festival and you will receive a QR code so that festival staff can contact you.
Accessibility: Trained service miniature horses or dogs are allowed on festival grounds to provide assistance to individuals with a disability. Patrons with service animals should use the accessible lane at either entrance.
American Sign Language interpreted music performances are available for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing. A full schedule of interpreted performances will be released closer to the festival date.
Upon arrival, guests who require accessible viewing areas should visit the Access Center for information on the accessibility wristband program. This provides the guest plus one patron access to the accessible viewing or deaf and hard of hearing areas. The wristband does not guarantee a spot and availability is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and three or four-wheeled scooters are allowed only for use by patrons with mobility disabilities. Powered wheelchairs can be charged at the Access Center. Accessible portable toilets are located at the ends of each group of portable toilets as well as at accessible viewing platforms. Accessible festival entry lanes are available at each entrance.
Anyone needing prescription medicine must present the pharmacy-labeled container that states the prescription, dosage, and patient name to medical staff at each entrance gate. Patrons are only allowed a sufficient supply of the prescribed medication for that day. Over-the-counter medications are allowed in a sufficient supply for the day. Bottle contents will be verified by medical personnel at the entry gates.
Lollapalooza runs July 31-Aug. 3 in Chicago’s Grant Park; tickets from $189 (1-day general admission tickets sold out) at lollapalooza.com/tickets
Britt Julious is a freelance critic.