The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, which takes place annually at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, kicked off with its first weekend Friday, April 10 to Sunday, April 12, 2015, continuing with its second weekend Friday, April 17 to Sunday April 19.
Coachella started off catering only to the alternative/indie scene, but has since branched out to other genres of music. Headlining the festival was rapper Drake, along with rockers Jack White and AC/DC.
Aside from Drake, a few other big names in rap were included in the lineup such as Lil B and Tyler the Creator. Some of the indie artists, essential to the classic Coachella vibe, included Tame Impala, Florence and the Machine, alt-J, and St. Vincent. There were also some electronic artists like DJ Snake and Axwell ^ Ingroso, pop stars like Marina and the Diamonds and FKA Twigs, and even classic rock band Steely Dan.
This variety of genres means a varied audience consisting of many different kinds of people. But no matter where they come from or what genres they like, they all share a common love – music.
“Coachella is a really cool thing because it brings different types of people together,” said sophomore Jordan Tinitigan.
Many other celebrities attended Coachella not to perform, but to join in the festivities. Stars like Kendall and Kylie Jenner, Rihanna, and Alessandra Ambrosio could be seen walking around the festival grounds or dancing in the VIP section. Justin Bieber was there too, well…before being escorted out in a chokehold.
The story goes like this: he was trying to get into the VIP area to watch his friend Drake perform. The security guard would not allow him in because the area was filled to capacity. Beiber stood his ground, as he had the proper wristband to enter. It got quite heated, one thing led to another, and the security guard ended up putting him in a chokehold before Bieber was ordered to leave the festival.
In other news, Drake and Madonna shared an unexpected onstage kiss. Drake called Madonna out onstage during his set, and during her performance of her song “Human Nature”, she suddenly, to his surprise, started making out with him.
This was surprising for the audience, but Drake was equally as confused as them. After Madonna walked offstage, Drake said, “What the f— just happened?”
Because there are so many celebrities at Coachella wearing the most unique, designer “hippie” clothes, Coachella fashion has become a huge part of the festival. All over the interne,t blogs talk about who wore what.
Sophomore Gina DiRusso said, “Everyone cares about the clothes and stuff but not the music, what king of bull—- is that?”
Whether it’s music, fashion, or a Ferris wheel, Coachella has something for everyone.
Who’s your favorite artist on the lineup?