Browse By

Top 10 Acts to Watch at LOLLAPALOOZA 2017

2017’s Lollapalooza is set for August 3-6, with artists and fans from around the world planning the trek to the famous Chicago festival.

From its beginning in ‘91, Lolla has become a powerhouse in the summer festival bracket. This year’s headliners include Chance the Rapper, Lorde, The Killers, Arcade Fire and many more. Fans are sure to be running stage to stage in order to get the most out of the amazing acts in attendance.

Lollapalooza is known for its diverse lineup of music for every type of fan. In addition to its eight stages, there is also a more developed pre-party and aftershow lineup. Highlights include Foster The People w/ HONNE, Chicago’s own Whitney w/ Kevin Devine, and Grouplove w/ 888.

Check out our top ten here.

Lorde

After nearly four years since the release of her debut album Pure Heroine in 2013, Lorde is returning in full force with her sophomore album Melodrama. As one of the headliners at Lollapalooza this year, artist has already proven her album’s potential, with hits like Green Light eliciting a major response from fans after her performance at this year’s Coachella.

The Killers

The Killers are one of the more experienced headliners this year. Drawing immense success since their start in 2001, the band is gearing up for the release of their fifth studio album, Wonderful Wonderful. Their infectious indie rock is sure to be a highlight of the festival.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfedYa_JovE

Whitney

Chicago indie band Whitney are set to perform on the 4th. Songwriters Max Kakacek and Julien Ehrlich have crafted an amazingly simple and soothing album in Light Upon The Lake and their extensive touring schedule has also allowed for a well-refined live show, opening for the likes of The Head and The Heart and Tobias Jesso Jr. They are sure to draw on their hometown support during their performance.

Hippo Campus

Lolla veterans Hippo Campus will return this year after the release of their debut album landmark. The quartet, based out of St. Paul, MN, have proven time and time again that they are made for a live audience. They will also be performing a pre-show at Reggie’s with Remo Drive.

Chance the Rapper

Chance the Rapper is another well-known face in this year’s festival run. Another Chicago native, Chance takes his place as a headliner after the release of his third mixtape Coloring Book in 2016. In addition to his many awards and acclaim as a lyricist, Chance’s stage presence is something to behold.

Glass Animals

After seeing Glass Animals perform live back in late 2015, I was instantly hooked. That show is one of the ones I refer to the most when asked about my favorite live set. This indie rock band from the U.K. will bring their psychedelic tunes to Lolla on Saturday, sure to play some new hits off of their sophomore album How To Be A Human Being.

Highly Suspect

Highly Suspect are another band I was exposed to first in a live setting. Their hard rock and intense lyrics make for an electric show. Frontman Johnny Stevens knows how to lead a crowd, and I can’t wait to see how they take advantage of the Lolla audience.

London Grammar

This dream pop trio returns to Lollapalooza after rave reviews from their appearance in 2014. Their music is newer to me, but their latest release Truth Is A Beautiful Thing has me intrigued and eager to see them at the festival.

Alt-J

Alt-J’s music is a step away from your typical indie rock. This Is All Yours, released in 2014, went straight to U.K. number one. Their more recent work builds off of that success and their eccentric sound is sure to bring variety to the festival. They just released new album, Relaxer, after all.

Sylvan Esso

Lastly, but surely not least, is Sylvan Esso. This indiepop duo from South Carolina has been having a whirlwind U.S. tour in support of their sophomore album What Now. Their upbeat and infectious music is perfect for a festival like Lollapalooza.