24 Artists to See at Lollapalooza 2024

Worry Club | 12-2:30pm | Bacardi Stage
RIYL: Quarters Of Change, Breakup Shoes, Mom Jeans

Opening up the festival is local band Worry Club, who I’ve been lucky enough to watch flourish in real time in the past couple of years. Recently, they have been touring around North America as openers for multiple artists, which has given them the chance to polish their live dynamic and sound in the months leading up to Lollapalooza.

Frontman Chase Walsh’s energy on stage is contagious and genuine, which makes it so much easier to quickly fall in love with Worry Club’s sound. As the earliest set on the first day of the festival, hopefully they will get a good group of excited ‘melomaniacs,’ either those who’ve already heard of them or newcomers looking for new music, and even bystanders who might be lucky enough to be trapped by songs like “NOTHIN,” “In My Ear,” and “Pretty Face”. – Javi

Abby Holliday | 12:15-1pm | Tito’s Sage
RIYL: The Japanese House, Tommy Lefroy, Carol Ades

If you’ve followed our Lollapalooza coverage for several years now, you likely already know that one of my favorite things to do is scour the lineup to find artists I’m unfamiliar with and fall in love with them: which is exactly what happened when I stumbled across Abby Holliday.

The singer-songwriter is gearing up to release her third album on July 26: right in time for a handful of new songs to be performed at Lollapaloza, me thinks! With songs she self-describes as her “journal entries,” I’m looking forward to hearing songs like “Sleeping Sculpture,” “The Price” and “Couch Comrade” live: if you’re a fan of the indie sensibilities of The Japanese House and introspective lyricism from Phoebe Bridgers, I will bet that you’ll enjoy Abby Holliday, too. – Kristin

Mette | 1:15-2pm | T-Mobile Stage
RIYL: Jessie Ware, Dua Lipa, Empress Of

It feels like only yesterday when I first discovered pop artist METTE’s (pronounced “meta”) infectious dance music. Hailing from Minnesota, Lollapalooza will certainly feel like a hometown affair of some sorts: considering it’s the biggest festival in the midwest.

Mette initially got her start as a professional dancer, performing in the movies Hustlers and Cats with none other than Taylor Swift, who she would go on to open for as one of the special guests at Swift’s Eras Tour at Wembley Stadium. If you’re a fan of upbeat, fun dance music and elite choreography, Mette’s early afternoon show is one not to miss. – Kristin

Goldie Boutilier | 2:10-2:50pm | BMI Stage
RIYL: Lana Del Rey, Orville Peck, Willow Avalon

You know those artists whose music you can turn on and automatically visualize what they’re singing about? That’s exactly what Canadian singer-songwriter Goldie Boutilier’s music does to me: it’s cinematic, bold, glittery, and intrepid. Her influences include Tammy Wynette and Dolly Parton: two country superstars whose music is definitely audible in Boutilier’s sound without feeling like cosplay.

Set to open up for Orville Peck in Nashville this fall and gearing up for an EP release, I’m certain that catching Boutilier perform on the smallest stage at Lolla is the first and only chance to see her in such an intimate setting before she explodes. – Kristin

Brenn! | 3:20-4pm | BMI Stage
RIYL: Chance Peña, Lizzy McAlpine, Father John Misty

A surprising name on the lineup was 19-year-old Brennan Keller—better known as Brenn!—who has officially released only a handful of songs so far. With that said, his talent and spark is undeniable, and has gained him over a million monthly listeners on Spotify just this year.

Mixing folky instrumentals with powerful vocals in a very Noah Kahan-esque way, the Alabama-based is still only at the beginning of his career and figuring out his style and sound, but after a short tour run earlier this year, he probably has more than enough experience to delight the Lollapalooza audience. – Javi

Wolves of Glendale | 4:30-5:10pm | BMI Stage
RIYL: Weird Al Yankovic, The Lonely Island, Jukebox the Ghost

While browsing the Lollapalooza lineup, I was thrilled to spot Wolves of Glendale, a comedic band from Los Angeles. Their unique blend of original music and sharp parodies highlights the absurdity of everyday life, earning them a considerable social media following and fanbase in just a year and a half. The Wolves’ knack for combining humor with music sets them apart and makes their performances memorable.

In their short time together, Wolves of Glendale have already hit major milestones. They’ve graced the stage at the Netflix is a Joke Festival, opened for notable acts like David Cross, Tenacious D, and Jukebox the Ghost, and released three music videos. Their ability to mix laughter and catchy tunes ensures their shows are a hit with both comedy enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

If you’re heading to Lolla, don’t miss their set—you might just discover your new favorite band! – Jesse

Daniel Seavey | 12:30-1:15pm | IHG Stage
RIYL: Johnny Orlando, The Driver Era, Jeremy Zucker

I’ve watched Daniel Seavey’s career bloom since we were both teenagers, and seeing the announcement for his Lollapalooza set really filled my heart. The 25-year-old is probably one of today’s most talented pop artists, as a multi-instrumentalist, incredible producer and songwriter, and of course an outstanding vocalist. After the breakup of his band Why Don’t We, the future seemed so uncertain and confusing for him as an artist and a person, but it seems like he’s truly found his place.

If you’re looking for fun and infectious pop songs, Daniel is your guy, and if you’re looking for heartfelt and devastating songs—that might even include cello solos– Daniel is also your guy. He truly is one of a kind, bringing all the charisma and likeability of a real pop star, on top of ridiculous amounts of talent. -Javi

Geese | 1:45-2:45pm | Tito’s Stage
RIYL: Black Country New Road, Wednesday, Jeff Rosenstock

Geese are set to bring their vibrant energy to Lollapalooza this weekend, adding to the impressive roster of festivals they’ve performed at this year. Hailing from Brooklyn, this band has quickly made a name for themselves with their unique blend of beachy rock vibes, perfect for the summer festival scene.

Geese’s sound, reminiscent of bands like The Strokes and Television, offers a fresh yet nostalgic feel that resonates well with fans of indie rock. Their engaging performances and infectious tunes are sure to captivate the Lollapalooza audience.

With their fun, beachy, and chill vibe, Geese are poised to be one of the highlights of Lollapalooza this weekend. Their set promises to be a refreshing experience, transporting festival-goers to a sun-soaked, carefree atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to see Geese in action—you might just find your new favorite summer soundtrack. – Jesse

Blu DeTiger | 2:50-3:30pm | Bacardi Stage
RIYL: MICHELLE, Between Friends, Alfie Templeman

As an artist that has been around for longer than most people realize, Blu DeTiger’s true talent shines the most when performing live. She is instantly likable and captivating, putting on some of the most fun and charming performances you’ll ever see. More recently, she’s even managed to grow her following as Dominic Fike’s bassist, even though she’s not even the protagonist of those shows.

Blu’s insane amount of stardom potential is still waiting to be unleashed, and what better place than one of the world’s biggest and most acclaimed music festivals? There are plenty of crazy talented women on this year’s lineup, which makes us at Staged Haze stupidly happy! And I’m personally so glad Blu is one of them. You won’t want to miss her shredding the bass and playing some of the most invigorating, original songs you’ve ever heard. – Javi

Malcolm Todd | 4-4:45pm | Bacardi Stage
RIYL: Omar Apollo, LAUNDRY DAY, Dominic Fike

An artist that I wish I had included in an Artists to Watch list earlier this year, Malcolm Todd has all the juice to be the next big thing. His silky voice works perfectly with his groovy and flirty instrumentals, moving around the alternative R&B realm with ease, and creating a very unique style. The Los Angeles-native also just released his debut album, Sweet Boy, earlier this year, giving him a solid set of new songs to charm the Lolla audience.

He will also be embarking on tour as Omar Apollo’s opener later this year, so he really is going through the best time to grow and capture as many new listeners as possible this year. Malcolm will be playing one of the bigger non-main stages at Grant Park, which hopefully will bring him the massive crowd he deserves. – Javi

Lola Young | 5:15-6pm | Bacardi Stage
RIYL: Billie Eilish, Remi Wolf, Rachel Chinouriri

23-year-old Lola Young has been releasing music since 2019, but nothing seem to stick commercially as much as her 2023 single “Don’t Hate Me,” whose viral moment on TikTok catapulted her to the next level of success. This past April, Young went on to tour (and sell out) shows across North America, gained co-signs from major artists like Tyler, The Creator and Lily Allen, and is now set to debut at Lollapalooza, All Things Go, and Osheaga.

Described by none other than Rolling Stone as an artist to watch, the magazine described her sound as, “a unique fusion of post-punk, soul, and low-fi pop.” If you’re looking for a genre-bending set that’s high energy and distinctively its own, I suggest you check out Lola Young. – Kristin

Ryan Beatty | 6:30-7:15pm | Bacardi Stage
RIYL: Lizzy McAlpine, Christian Leave, Roy Blair

I dream of the day when I will be able to stop writing about Ryan Beatty as an artist to watch. It feels insane and disrespectful – he’s Ryan Beatty! However, I am happy to see that he’s finally getting some festival gigs where he can show the world how talented and amazing he really is.

The man’s ability and genius isn’t even limited to his own music, having released three beautiful masterpieces in this decade only, Boy in Jeans, Dreaming of David, and Calico, but the 28-year-old’s songwriting abilities are so beyond incredible that he even has writing credits in THE Beyoncé’s new record Cowboy Carter. Do you need anything else? Just go see this man’s set please. – Javi

Brigitte Calls Me Baby | 12:30-1:15pm | IHG Stage
RIYL: Dehd, Blondshell, The Last Dinner Party

Brigitte Calls Me Baby is set to bring their modern spin on a classic sound to Lollapalooza this year. Based in Chicago, this band has been capturing hearts with their music that evokes the nostalgic vibes of The Smiths while adding a fresh, contemporary twist. Their performances are known for their infectious energy and engaging stage presence, making them a perfect fit for the festival’s diverse lineup.

With a debut album that is surely on the horizon, Lollapalooza is the perfect setup for Brigitte Calls Me Baby to showcase their new material. Their set promises to be a highlight of the festival, offering a mix of nostalgic melodies and modern rhythms that will resonate with both new listeners and long-time fans.
– Jesse 

Infinity Song | 1:15-2pm | Bud Light Stage
RIYL: Michelle, Hemlocke Springs, Remi Wolf

Picture this: you’re a band comprised of siblings that decide to pursue a career in music and move to New York City after growing up in Detroit, MI. You’re performing in Central Park…and someone influential discovers you and introduces you to Jay Z…who then signs you to Roc Nation. Sounds like a movie, right? Well, that’s exactly what happened to Infinity Song.

Thanks to their hilariously apt song “Hater’s Anthem” garnering millions of views on TikTok earlier this year, the band is absolutely prepped for stardom. Infinity Song is just about to wrap up their North American headlining tour before heading to Lollapalooza and All Things Go.
– Kristin

Quarters of Change | 2:50-3:30pm | Bacardi Stage
RIYL:

Another set that I think will have both fans and bystanders having a great time, is NYC’s Quarters Of Change. The quartet brings all the energy from an ’80s rock band to the stage, with loud and powerful guitars, which perfectly complement Ben Roter’s striking voice. They also just released their sophomore album Portraits earlier this year, and this is an incredible chance to showcase their new songs and sound.

Getting to play one of the bigger non-main stages at the festival, they will have the opportunity to reach so many new ears and potential listeners, and I’m really hoping that this festival run they’re having will bring them some more of the recognition that they so deserve. If you’re into musicians that seem to give up their bodies and souls to the music, do not miss this show. – Javi

Dora Jar | 3-4pm | Bud Light Stage
RIYL: Wallice, Spill Tab, boyish

From the moment I first stumbled across Dora Jar back in 2021, I became absolutely obsessed. The singer-songwriter’s multi-dimensional sound, uniquely odd production and lyrical choices, and overall demeanor made her an anomaly in the industry: I found her aesthetic to be incredibly endearing, honest, and authentic.

After seeing her headline the Troubadour back in 2022 and then again opening for The 1975 last year, I’m excited to see that she’s starting to earn her flowers as an artist to watch: her debut album NO WAY TO RELAX WHEN YOU ARE ON FIRE drops on September 13 via Island Records and she’ll be playing her biggest headlining shows to date later this fall.

Performing on the main stage at Lolla is no easy feat, but I’m confident and curious to see how Dora Jar commands the crowd on Saturday afternoon. – Kristin

Nia Archives | 5:30-6:30pm | Sonny’s
RIYL: Fred Again, SHY FX

I know what you’re thinking: “Kristin is featuring an artist on Lollapalooza’s EDM stage as one not to miss?” It’s confusing, I know! But I’ve recently become super into British DJ, singer-songwriter, and producer Nia Archives’ music: mainly to soundtrack my workouts, but also as an artist to defer to when I’m in need of some pump up music.

Nia is most known for her work in the Jungle genre of EDM, born out of the UK rave scene and features breakbeats, syncopated percussive loops, samples, synthesized effects, basslines, and a lot more. Known as a party starter in her own right, I guarantee that Archives’ set at The Sonny Stage, fka (and never forgotten) as Perry’s Stage, will bring the heat on Saturday afternoon. – Kristin

Tommy Newport | 5:40-6:20pm | BMI Stage
RIYL: JAWNY, Djo, Kid Bloom

I’m sure there are plenty of hidden gems on this year’s lineup, but I’m also sure Tommy Newport is one of the best ones. The Manchester-native brings a completely new sound to the festival and the indie scene in general, because naturally –as a Berklee graduate– you can tell he’s taken the time and care to create his own new thing.

Taking sounds from previous decades and mixing them up with fun and original new strokes, Tommy Newport, (legally Jackson Lundy), has two records under his sleeve already, with more than enough songs to build a lively and ear-catching set. – Javi

Valencia Grace | 12:15-1pm | IHG Stage
RIYL: Olivia Rodrigo, LÉON, renforshort

It felt like only yesterday when the team at Staged Haze first discovered Valencia Grace: it was in fact back in 2022 when we covered her single “Final Dance.” Fast forward to 2024 and Valencia is debuting at major festivals across the country, including Outsidelands, Hinterland, Austin City Limits, and of course, Lollapalooza.

I particularly enjoy the way that Valencia, who’s only 21-years-old by the way, seems to effortlessly blend her soulful voice with indie production choices: making her a true artist to watch with the potential for massive commercial appeal. – Kristin

Nico Vega | 1:50-2:3pm | Bacardi Stage
RIYL: Dead Sara, Meg Myers, The Subways

I was surprised to find out that Michael Peña was in a rock band. The actor, of “Ant Man,” “Crash,” and most importantly to me, “Narcos: Mexico” fame also has time in his schedule to play bass in the band Nico Vega, who’s playing Lollapalooza’s Bacardí stage on Sunday. While Peña might be the most famous member of the band, he’s certainly not the star — the band’s raw and powerful music is certainly a group effort, but the standout is vocalist Aja Volkman. Volkman’s forceful, husky voice leads the charge through the indie band’s two albums, and their live performances.

After a three-year hiatus, Nico Vega reunited in December 2023, and Lollapalooza is a great opportunity to see the recently-resurrected band. – Erin

Slow Pulp | 2:45-3:45pm | T-Mobile Stage
RIYL: Momma, Indigo de Souza, Snail Mail

Sunday is hands down one of the best days to stop at Lollapalooza for fans of rock music. The genre is well represented in its headliner, pop punk stalwarts Blink-182, as well as other acts throughout the day, like the post-hardcore group Pierce the Veil, the art rock creative powerhouse The Last Dinner Party, and of course, Slow Pulp. The band, which plays a mashup of indie and alternative-inspired rock, and dreamy bedroom pop, is originally from Madison, Wisc., but will be hometown heroes at the festival—they’re now based in Chicago.

Slow Pulp just wrapped up a tour opening up for indie rock legends Death Cab for Cutie and The Postal Service earlier this year, and will be playing Lollapalooza’s T-Mobile stage at 2:45 p.m. on Sunday. – Erin

Post Sex Nachos | 12:50-1:30pm | Bacardi Stage
RIYL: Del Water Gap, Briston Maroney, Vulfpeck  

Post Sex Nachos, another fantastic Midwest band, is set to light up the Lollapalooza stage this year. This five-piece, self-proclaimed “boy band” released their debut album Prima/Vera in February, showcasing their unique blend of energetic and heartfelt music. Known for their dynamic performances and catchy tunes, Post Sex Nachos are quickly becoming a must-see act in the festival circuit.

With their debut album gaining traction, Post Sex Nachos are poised to make a significant impact at Lollapalooza. Their set promises to be full of high energy, fun, and a few surprises, making it a highlight of the festival. If you’re attending Lolla this year, be sure to check out Post Sex Nachos—you won’t want to miss out on discovering your next favorite band. – Jesse 

Medium Build | 4-4:45pm | Bacardi Stage
RIYL: Briston Maroney, hey, nothing, Holly Humberstone

One of Staged Haze’s favorites is finally making his Lollapalooza debut; Nick Carpenter, aka Medium Build has had at least two of SH’s writers crying when seeing him live, so I think you can imagine how excited we are for everyone who will be lucky enough to see him perform at Grant Park. Nick’s career has been a slowburn, but his unwavering passion, which translates so well into his songwriting, has won over the hearts of so many new fans in the past couple of years, and simultaneously his craft seems to only be getting better.
Nick could be on stage with only a guitar and his dry humor, and I’m sure he would have the entity city of Chicago in the palm of his hand if they were all blessed enough to watch him play live.

I am being so dramatic, but it is really that magical to be at a Medium Build show. So show up early and make sure to put this man’s name on your Lolla schedule, or I promise you will regret it! -Javi

Cults | 7:45-8:30pm | Bacardi Stage
RIYL: Beach House, Suki Waterhouse, Yot Club

It feels like yesterday when I was interning at JBTV Music Studios in Chicago as a freshman in college, and the indie band Cults was one of the first artists I got to see perform in studio. Considering that was ten years ago (I’m unintentionally aging myself, here), and Cults is still around, I would say that’s a testament to their staying power as a band.

With four albums under their belt (the 5th dropping tomorrow), a certified platinum record with “Always Forever,” and a recent remix of Taylor Swift’s “Fortnight,” I’m certain that the two piece will pull a heavy crowd on Sunday evening: one that will likely skew attendees over 30-years-old. – Kristin