Lollapalooza Friday Artist Guide (Part 2)

Zara Larsson

📍 From: Stockholm, Sweden
Zara Larsson is an international pop star known for powerhouse vocals, infectious dance-pop, and confident stage presence. She has built a career balancing radio-friendly hits with impressive live performances.
🎧 Sounds Like: Dua Lipa, Ava Max, Anne-Marie, Rita Ora

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Notion

📍 From: Bristol, England
Notion is a UK electronic producer known for bass-heavy house, UK garage, and club music. His sets are energetic and built for dancing from start to finish.
🎧 Sounds Like: Sammy Virji, Disclosure, Fred again.., Interplanetary Criminal

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Skye Newman

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Skye Newman blends indie pop with soulful vocals and polished songwriting. Her music is intimate, melodic, and emotionally engaging.
🎧 Sounds Like: Gracie Abrams, Lizzy McAlpine, Holly Humberstone

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Suki Waterhouse

📍 From: London, England
Known first as a model and actress, Suki Waterhouse has become a respected indie-pop artist with dreamy vocals and cinematic songwriting. Her music balances vintage influences with modern indie production.
🎧 Sounds Like: Lana Del Rey, Weyes Blood, Hazel English, Clairo

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School of Rock

📍 From: Various U.S. cities
School of Rock showcases talented young musicians performing classic and modern rock songs. These students often play with remarkable confidence and musicianship well beyond their age.
🎧 Sounds Like: Covers of classic rock and alternative favorites

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Ella Red

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Ella Red combines R&B, soul, and hip-hop into smooth, emotionally rich songs. Her vocals and songwriting have made her one of Chicago’s rising stars.
🎧 Sounds Like: Summer Walker, SZA, Jhené Aiko

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IVRI

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
IVRI is an electronic artist blending pop melodies with modern dance production. Their music creates an atmospheric yet upbeat festival vibe.
🎧 Sounds Like: RÜFÜS DU SOL, Elderbrook, Bob Moses

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Oklou

📍 From: Paris, France
Oklou creates ethereal electronic pop filled with delicate vocals and experimental production. Her music is beautiful, understated, and highly influential in the hyperpop scene.
🎧 Sounds Like: Caroline Polachek, A.G. Cook, FKA twigs, Eartheater

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Loathe ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

📍 From: Liverpool, England
Loathe is one of the most innovative heavy bands today, blending metalcore, shoegaze, ambient music, and alternative rock into an immersive sound. Their concerts shift effortlessly between crushing heaviness and breathtaking beauty.
🎧 Sounds Like: Deftones, Sleep Token, Deftones, Deafheaven, Static Dress

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Lil Uzi Vert

📍 From: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Lil Uzi Vert helped redefine modern hip-hop with melodic flows, punk attitude, and genre-bending creativity. Their performances are chaotic, energetic, and crowd-driven.
🎧 Sounds Like: Playboi Carti, Trippie Redd, Yeat

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SIDEPIECE

📍 From: Los Angeles, California
SIDEPIECE is the house music duo of Party Favor and Nitti, known for huge dance-floor anthems and infectious grooves. Their sets are nonstop parties.
🎧 Sounds Like: Dom Dolla, Fisher, John Summit, Chris Lake

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Paloma Murphy

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Paloma Murphy writes indie-pop songs with heartfelt lyrics and warm melodies. Her performances emphasize storytelling and emotional connection.
🎧 Sounds Like: Soccer Mommy, Phoebe Bridgers, Julia Jacklin

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Slayyyter

📍 From: St. Louis, Missouri
Slayyyter mixes hyperpop, dance-pop, and Y2K nostalgia into glamorous, high-energy performances. Her music embraces bold production and larger-than-life pop hooks.
🎧 Sounds Like: Charli XCX, Kim Petras, COBRAH

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YUNGBLUD

📍 From: Doncaster, England
YUNGBLUD combines punk, pop, hip-hop, and alternative rock into explosive, emotionally charged songs. His concerts are wildly energetic and built around audience participation.
🎧 Sounds Like: Machine Gun Kelly, Bring Me The Horizon, My Chemical Romance

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Mustard

📍 From: Los Angeles, California
Mustard is one of hip-hop’s most influential producers, responsible for countless modern rap and R&B hits. His DJ sets feature wall-to-wall chart-topping tracks.
🎧 Sounds Like: DJ Mustard’s collaborators include Kendrick Lamar, YG, Ty Dolla $ign, Ella Mai

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Not For Radio

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Not For Radio blends alternative rock with modern indie influences and energetic live performances. They represent Chicago’s thriving independent music scene.
🎧 Sounds Like: The Wombats, Catfish and the Bottlemen

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Nettspend

📍 From: Richmond, Virginia
Nettspend is one of the most talked-about young rappers of the underground internet scene, known for chaotic production and unconventional flows. He’s become a favorite among Gen Z hip-hop fans.
🎧 Sounds Like: OsamaSon, Ken Carson, Yeat

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HorsegiirL

📍 From: Berlin, Germany (fictional equine persona)
HorsegiirL is an electronic artist whose humorous horse-themed identity has become an internet sensation. Behind the joke is a genuinely talented DJ producing excellent techno and house music.
🎧 Sounds Like: DJ Gigola, VTSS, Peggy Gou

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Charli XCX ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

📍 From: Cambridge, England
Charli XCX has become one of pop music’s boldest innovators by combining mainstream songwriting with hyperpop, electronic experimentation, and fearless creativity. Following the success of BRAT, she’s one of the hottest artists in the world. Expect one of the weekend’s biggest dance parties.
🎧 Sounds Like: Caroline Polachek, SOPHIE, Kim Petras, Slayyyter

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Major Lazer

📍 From: Originally formed in Jamaica/United States
Major Lazer blends EDM, dancehall, reggae, Afrobeats, and pop into enormous festival-ready performances. Their catalog includes some of the biggest dance hits of the last decade.
🎧 Sounds Like: Diplo, DJ Snake, Dillon Francis

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Freddie Gibbs

📍 From: Gary, Indiana
Freddie Gibbs is widely regarded as one of the best technical rappers of his generation, equally comfortable over jazz samples or hard-hitting street beats. His collaborations with Madlib and The Alchemist are modern hip-hop classics.
🎧 Sounds Like: Pusha T, Benny the Butcher, Griselda, Joey Bada$$

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The Smashing Pumpkins ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
The Smashing Pumpkins are one of alternative rock’s defining bands, blending grunge, dream pop, heavy metal, and psychedelia into a catalog filled with timeless songs. Billy Corgan’s distinctive songwriting and the band’s massive sound have influenced generations of musicians. A hometown Lollapalooza performance should be one of the emotional highlights of the weekend.
🎧 Sounds Like: Hum, Failure, Jane’s Addiction, Silversun Pickups

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⭐ Friday’s 10 Can’t-Miss Acts

1. The Smashing Pumpkins ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Charli XCX ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. High Vis ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Loathe ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5. Freddie Gibbs ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
6. I-DLE ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
7. YUNGBLUD ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
8. Suki Waterhouse ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
9. Balu Brigada ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
10. Claire Rosinkranz ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

💎 Friday Hidden Gems

• High Vis
• Loathe
• 54 Ultra
• Love Spells
• Oklou
• Julia Wolf
• Balu Brigada

🎸 Best Rock Sets

• The Smashing Pumpkins
• High Vis
• Loathe
• YUNGBLUD

💃 Best Dance Sets

• Charli XCX
• Major Lazer
• SIDEPIECE
• Notion

🎤 Best Hip-Hop

• Freddie Gibbs
• Mustard
• Lil Uzi Vert

🌅 Best Early-Day Discovery

High Vis. If there’s one band playing earlier in the day that has the potential to become your favorite new discovery, it’s them. Their blend of post-punk melody and hardcore intensity has earned widespread acclaim, and they have a reputation for delivering unforgettable live performances.

I asked ChatGPT to look at the Friday and Saturday lineups and summarize each act and provide recommendations. Four parts. Not callbullchip certified, but some good information. And a few errors. I like how it says Olivia Dean sounds like Olivia Dean…

Lollapalooza Friday Artist Guide (Part 1)

Partyof2

📍 From: Los Angeles, California
Partyof2 is an alternative R&B duo blending soulful vocals with indie-pop production and intimate songwriting. Their music has a relaxed, late-night feel that emphasizes melody over flashy production.
🎧 Sounds Like: Steve Lacy, Dijon, Mk.gee, Daniel Caesar

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Bradeazy

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Bradeazy is an emerging Chicago rapper who mixes melodic hooks with modern trap beats and autobiographical lyrics. His music reflects the city’s thriving new hip-hop scene.
🎧 Sounds Like: Polo G, Lil Tjay, G Herbo

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The Army, The Navy

📍 From: Los Angeles, California
This indie-pop duo specializes in lush harmonies and heartfelt songwriting with warm acoustic textures. Their music balances vulnerability and optimism with beautifully layered vocals.
🎧 Sounds Like: HAIM, The Japanese House, First Aid Kit

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Miss Tutti & The Fruity Band

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
A colorful, family-friendly group that blends funk, soul, pop, and dance music into upbeat performances. Their shows are energetic, interactive, and full of positive vibes.
🎧 Sounds Like: Tank and the Bangas, Fitz and the Tantrums

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Whitney Whitney

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Whitney Whitney delivers soulful indie-pop with catchy melodies and expressive vocals. Their songs mix modern production with classic pop influences.
🎧 Sounds Like: Remi Wolf, RAYE, Olivia Dean

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Beno

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Beno creates thoughtful hip-hop that combines jazz-influenced production with introspective storytelling. His laid-back delivery rewards close listening.
🎧 Sounds Like: Saba, Mick Jenkins, Noname

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Chicago Made

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Chicago Made is a showcase featuring rising artists from one of America’s richest music cities. It’s an opportunity to discover tomorrow’s local stars before they break nationally.
🎧 Sounds Like: Varies by performer

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Avello

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Avello produces melodic electronic dance music built around uplifting drops and festival-ready energy. His live sets balance emotion with huge singalong moments.
🎧 Sounds Like: Gryffin, Illenium, Said the Sky

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Valencia Grace

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Valencia Grace blends indie-pop with soulful vocals and polished songwriting. Her music feels both contemporary and timeless.
🎧 Sounds Like: Maggie Rogers, Lizzy McAlpine, Olivia Dean

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Day We Ran

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Day We Ran plays melodic alternative rock filled with emotional lyrics and soaring guitar hooks. Their songs combine classic alt-rock influences with modern indie production.
🎧 Sounds Like: Jimmy Eat World, Death Cab for Cutie, The Gaslight Anthem

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High Vis ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

📍 From: London, England
High Vis has become one of the UK’s most acclaimed modern rock bands by blending hardcore punk, Britpop melodies, and post-punk textures. Their emotionally honest songwriting and explosive live performances have earned them rave reviews around the world.
🎧 Sounds Like: IDLES, Turnstile, Fontaines D.C., Militarie Gun

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LYNY

📍 From: Dallas, Texas
LYNY is one of the most exciting young producers in bass music, creating cinematic electronic tracks with intricate sound design. His sets mix heavy drops with beautiful melodic moments.
🎧 Sounds Like: ISOxo, G Jones, RL Grime

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Claire Rosinkranz

📍 From: Encinitas, California
Claire Rosinkranz writes breezy indie-pop songs that feel effortlessly fun and relatable. Her music captures youthful optimism with catchy melodies and playful lyrics.
🎧 Sounds Like: Clairo, Beabadoobee, Holly Humberstone

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Mister G

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Mister G combines hip-hop, funk, and soul into uplifting performances designed to get audiences moving. He’s known for energetic shows and positive messages.
🎧 Sounds Like: Anderson .Paak, Common

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Ella Boh

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
Ella Boh creates polished indie-pop with expressive vocals and introspective lyrics. Her songs emphasize emotion while remaining radio-friendly.
🎧 Sounds Like: Gracie Abrams, Phoebe Bridgers, Sabrina Carpenter (ballads)

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Love Spells

📍 From: Los Angeles, California
Love Spells creates dreamy indie rock filled with shimmering guitars, hazy vocals, and lush atmospheres. Their music is perfect for fans of modern shoegaze and dream pop.
🎧 Sounds Like: Slow Pulp, Beach Fossils, DIIV, Slowdive

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Julia Wolf

📍 From: New York City, New York
Julia Wolf blends alternative rock, electronic pop, and emotionally raw songwriting into a dark, cinematic sound. She has become one of the more exciting rising artists in alternative music.
🎧 Sounds Like: PVRIS, Halsey, Ethel Cain

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Balu Brigada

📍 From: Auckland, New Zealand
Balu Brigada writes infectious indie-pop packed with funky rhythms, clever lyrics, and irresistible hooks. Their music is bright, danceable, and perfect for summer festivals.
🎧 Sounds Like: Phoenix, COIN, Two Door Cinema Club

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I-DLE

📍 From: Seoul, South Korea
I-DLE is one of K-pop’s most innovative groups, known for writing and producing much of their own music while blending pop, hip-hop, rock, and electronic influences. Their performances combine precision choreography with powerful stage presence.
🎧 Sounds Like: BLACKPINK, aespa, LE SSERAFIM

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RØZ

📍 From: Chicago, Illinois
RØZ creates atmospheric electronic pop featuring soulful vocals and moody production. Her music balances intimacy with modern electronic textures.
🎧 Sounds Like: BANKS, FKA twigs, Sevdaliza

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Jazzy Ash

📍 From: Los Angeles, California
Jazzy Ash mixes jazz, soul, funk, and children’s music into joyful performances for audiences of all ages. Her shows celebrate creativity, movement, and community.
🎧 Sounds Like: Tank and the Bangas, Lake Street Dive

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Emi Grace

📍 From: Los Angeles, California
Emi Grace writes emotional alternative pop built around honest lyrics and polished production. Her songs explore relationships, self-discovery, and resilience.
🎧 Sounds Like: Holly Humberstone, Sasha Alex Sloan, Gracie Abrams

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54 Ultra

📍 From: New Jersey
54 Ultra blends indie pop, psychedelic soul, yacht rock, and bedroom pop into an effortlessly cool sound. Their music feels nostalgic while remaining fresh and contemporary.
🎧 Sounds Like: Mac DeMarco, HOMESHAKE, Mild High Club

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Mother Mother 

 From: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Mother Mother has spent nearly two decades crafting quirky, theatrical indie rock that blends soaring vocal harmonies, clever lyrics, and infectious hooks. Although they built a loyal cult following in the late 2000s, a resurgence on TikTok introduced songs like “Hayloft” to a new generation, making them one of indie rock’s biggest success stories. Their live shows are energetic, playful, and packed with singalongs.

 Sounds Like: Cage the Elephant, Metric, Modest Mouse, Silversun Pickups, The New Pornographers

 Essential Song: Hayloft

 Why See Them Live: Their chemistry, harmonies, and crowd interaction make them one of the most entertaining indie bands on the festival circuit.

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The Story So Far 

 From: Walnut Creek, California

The Story So Far is one of the defining bands of the modern pop-punk revival, combining aggressive guitars with emotionally honest lyrics and massive singalong choruses. Since emerging in the early 2010s, they’ve become a cornerstone of the punk scene while maturing into a band that balances intensity with thoughtful songwriting. Expect one of the biggest mosh pits of the weekend.

 Sounds Like: Neck Deep, Knuckle Puck, State Champs, New Found Glory, Title Fight (early)

 Essential Song: Quicksand

 Why See Them Live: Even if you only casually like pop-punk, their live energy is infectious and the crowd sings nearly every word.

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Finn Wolfhard ☆

 From: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Best known as an actor in Stranger Things and the Ghostbusters films, Finn Wolfhard is also an accomplished indie musician. His solo material leans toward lo-fi indie rock and power pop, showcasing a more understated and personal style than his previous band, Calpurnia, or his work with The Aubreys. His songs favor catchy melodies, fuzzy guitars, and a relaxed DIY aesthetic.

 Sounds Like: Mac DeMarco, Alex G, The Strokes, Built to Spill, The Aubreys

 Essential Song: Choose the Latter (solo) or Smoke Bomb (with The Aubreys)

 Why See Them Live: It’s a chance to see an emerging musician finding his own artistic voice rather than just a famous actor playing music.

🎯 My Top Recommendations from this group

If I were planning my Friday, these would be my priorities:

1. High Vis ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (one of the best rock bands at Lollapalooza)
2. Mother Mother ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(Their chemistry, harmonies, and crowd interaction make them one of the most entertaining indie bands on the festival circuit)
3. I-DLE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (world-class K-pop performers)
4. Balu Brigada ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (future indie stars)
5. Julia Wolf ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (dark alternative pop)
6. 54 Ultra ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (perfect afternoon festival music)
7. Love Spells ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (excellent if you’re into shoegaze and dream pop)