Coachella’s reputation as one of the world’s biggest music festivals remains unscathed despite criticisms of declining ticket sales. This year’s event, held in April, saw a mix of thrilling performances and controversies.
Among the winners were Lady Gaga, Megan Thee Stallion, and Charli xcx, who delivered exceptional shows with surprise guest appearances and elaborate stage productions. Other notable acts included Green Day, Missy Elliott, and Clairo, whose performance was marked by a special speech from Senator Bernie Sanders.
However, not all went smoothly. Record-breaking heat in April led to dehydration concerns among attendees, while technical issues and strict set times disrupted performances. A recent controversy sparked outrage when Irish rap trio Kneecap displayed divisive lyrics on stage during their set.
The Coachella livestream, produced by YouTube, was widely praised for its production quality and direction, providing a high-quality viewing experience for millions of viewers worldwide.
In contrast, some critics took issue with the festival’s handling of sensitive topics, arguing that it failed to address pressing issues. A notable example is Kneecap’s on-stage statement about Israel, which sparked heated debate among attendees and raised questions about the festival’s approach to politics.
Despite these controversies, Coachella 2024 has cemented its status as a premier music event, offering an unforgettable experience for fans worldwide.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/music/news/coachella-best-worst-moments-gaga-1236374127