Lollapalooza kicked off its 32nd anniversary at Chicago’s Grant Park on Thursday with music enthusiasts from all corners of the globe in their best festival attire to witness an incredible lineup of artists. The energy was electric, the music was infectious and the echoes of incredible performances and unforgettable moments lingered in the air – so we made sure to capture our absolute favorites throughout the entire day.
Here are 10 awesome photos that encapsulate the essence of day one of Lollapalooza 2023.
1. Karol G makes history
As the sun set, Karol G took the spotlight, headlining the Bud Light stage with an unforgettable performance and marking the first Latina headliner in Lollapalooza history. With star presence and a powerful voice, she left the crowd craving more and excitedly anticipating her massive headlining show at Soldier Field in just over a month.
2. Noah Kahan's massive crowd
While fans were torn between headliners like Karol G and Billie Eilish, it seemed like no one had a tough decision come six o’clock as Noah Kahan's magnetic performance at the Tito's stage drew one of the largest crowds fans have ever seen at the festival’s bandshell. His soulful voice resonated across the sea of mesmerized faces, encouraging promoters to upgrade his stage and set time when he inevitably returns in future years.
3. Carly Rae Jepsen spreading joy
Carly Rae Jepsen took the stage in the evening, showering the audience with her infectious energy and hit songs. The crowd sang along to every word, creating a beautiful symphony of voices united by the power of music. If you think she’s just the woman who wrote “Call Me Maybe” then you’re wrong, as Jepsen performed a collection of hits throughout her entire set.
4. Lainey Wilson lassos hearts at the Coinbase stage
Fresh from owning the Wisconsin crowd at Country Thunder, Lainey Wilson delivered another memorable set just a couple hours southeast at Lolla’s Coinbase stage. Her authentic country sound and heartfelt lyrics resonated with the festival’s country fans.
5. New Jeans makes a stunning U.S. debut
Making their much-anticipated United States debut, New Jeans rocked the T-Mobile stage with a great performance that left the audience wanting more. The massive K-Pop group is one-for-one with their U.S. performances and will surely sell out venues across the country when they make their return.
6. Dom Dolla brought pyro and surprises
Dom Dolla’s fiery set at the Perry’s stage took the crowd by storm, bringing out the iconic Nelly Furtado to perform their new single "Eat Your Man." The unexpected collaboration had the crowd dancing and singing along, making it a standout moment of the day.
7. Jessie Murph’s pockets for days
Kicking off Lolla 2023 with one of the first sets at the Bacardi stage, Jessie Murph brought her A-game, commanding the stage with an unparalleled charisma. Her melodic tunes and vibrant presence set the perfect tone for an incredible day of music, while her outfit set the tone for carrying 100 old-school cell phones at the same time.
8. K-Rock
The Rose closed the night on the Bacardi stage, leaving the crowd in awe of their electrifying performance. The South Korean rock band’s dynamic stage presence was a perfect way to close out the opening night of another great Lollapalooza.
9. Men I Trust, eh
With their ethereal melodies and Emmanuelle Proulx’s amazing vocals, Quebec’s Men I Trust provided a captivating performance late in the afternoon. Their set created a dreamy ambiance that transported the audience from start to finish.
10. Chri$tian Gate$’ intimate performance
Despite initial technical challenges, Chri$tian Gate$ rallied and delivered a memorable set at the intimate BMI stage. His talent and sense of humor shined throughout his set and in between songs, rewarding everyone that came to see him perform.
