Karol G headlined an incredible first day of Lollapalooza 2023, becoming the first Latina headliner for the storied festival. It was nothing but good vibes ahead of an equally exciting weekend to unfold – perfect start.
The sun was doing its thing, which paired well with the colorful looks and stage production of artists like Sofi Tukker and Carly Rae Jepsen, who kept things fun and light on the Bud Light stage.
One of the best things I observed was just how much of an influence the summer blockbuster that Barbie has been, with tons of people coming to Grant Park in their best pink outfits. While there plenty of basketball jerseys around because tradition is tradition, but to see the cultural impact of this movie was pretty wild in this environment, and I would love for future editions of the festival to continue to be a celebration of whatever is happening in Pop culture at the time. Sadly, there was no Oppenheimer outfits in my fest experience, but then again it was too damn hot for all that.
My personal musical leanings would have me say that Men I Trust was the best act I saw this day, but I have to give it to the Pop acts for Day 1. Karol G was brilliant and the vibrant set helped make her headline performance feel like a moment despite so much attention this day going to Billie, and despite all that, she had a strong crowd size that felt like a party throughout her time on stage. Carly Rae Jepsen surprised me with how much more fun this set was and how much production & choreo is involved – “Call Me Maybe” brought this crowd to reach dope levels of excitement and it was all up from there. I dare to say she was the best of Day 1 of Lolla 2023 for me.
Photo Credit: Oscar Oliva Jr / Pursuit Of Dopeness
