best coachella lineup of all time

3 min read 23-11-2024

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Just the name conjures images of sun-drenched fields, iconic performances, and unforgettable moments. Choosing the single "best" Coachella lineup is subjective, of course, but considering star power, genre diversity, and lasting impact, some years stand out above the rest. This article dives into the contenders for the title of Coachella's greatest lineup ever.

Contenders for Coachella's Greatest Lineup

Several Coachella lineups have earned legendary status. Let's examine some top contenders, weighing their strengths and weaknesses:

2007: A Genre-Bending Masterpiece

The 2007 Coachella lineup was a game-changer. It showcased a diverse range of artists, from iconic rock acts to groundbreaking electronic music pioneers.

Headliners: Rage Against the Machine, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and The Cure provided a powerful and varied headlining experience.
Notable Acts: Daft Punk, LCD Soundsystem, The Killers, and Björk offered a mix of genres that attracted a massive and diverse crowd.
Impact: This lineup established Coachella's reputation for showcasing both established legends and rising stars across multiple musical landscapes.

Why it's a contender: The 2007 lineup’s blend of legendary acts and emerging artists, spanning multiple genres, is hard to match. It was a cultural moment that many still fondly remember.

2012: A Pop Culture Powerhouse

2012's Coachella lineup was dominated by huge pop stars, solidifying the festival's place in mainstream culture.

Headliners: Radiohead, Black Keys, and Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg.
Notable Acts: At the Drive-In, Florence + The Machine, and M83 provided excellent support.
Impact: The inclusion of Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg performing The Chronic in its entirety generated massive hype and cemented Coachella's status in pop culture.

Why it's a contender: The 2012 lineup delivered on star power, with headliners and supporting acts that appealed to a wide audience. The nostalgic factor of seeing The Chronic performed live is hard to ignore.

2017: A Balanced Blend of Legends and Newcomers

2017 showcased a remarkable balance between established acts and rising stars, creating a lineup that felt both classic and forward-looking.

Headliners: Radiohead, Lady Gaga, and Kendrick Lamar.
Notable Acts: Bon Iver, Lorde, Future, and Justice.
Impact: This lineup felt incredibly current, showcasing a mix of artists across several popular genres while retaining a heavy dose of legendary performers.

Why it's a contender: The 2017 lineup represents a perfect blend of established artists and rising stars across many genres, making it a highly satisfying and diverse experience.

2019: A Year of Surprises and Stellar Performances

2019, arguably Coachella’s last pre-pandemic peak, featured surprises, nostalgia, and current hits.

Headliners: Childish Gambino, Tame Impala, and Ariana Grande
Notable Acts: Billie Eilish, Khalid, Bad Bunny, and BLACKPINK demonstrated a brilliant lineup of diverse genres.
Impact: This year also showcased several surprise collaborations, making it a truly memorable and buzz-worthy experience.

Why it's a contender: The 2019 lineup delivered unexpected performances and major stars, proving the event's ability to cater to current and rising musical giants.

What Makes a Coachella Lineup Great?

The "best" Coachella lineup is subjective, but several factors contribute to a truly memorable experience:

Genre Diversity: A balanced representation of different musical styles appeals to a wider audience.
Star Power: High-profile headliners draw attention and generate excitement.
Emerging Talent: Including rising stars ensures the lineup feels fresh and forward-looking.
Nostalgia: Iconic acts can provide a dose of sentimental value and crowd-pleasing performances.
Surprises and Collaborations: Unexpected pairings and guest appearances add to the overall excitement and buzz.

The Verdict: A Tie (Almost)

Ultimately, declaring a single "best" Coachella lineup is impossible. Each year brings its own unique energy and memorable moments. The 2007, 2012, 2017, and 2019 lineups all stand as exceptional examples, each showcasing different aspects of what makes Coachella such a compelling festival. Depending on individual preferences and musical tastes, any of these years could easily claim the top spot. Looking forward, we await future lineups that may very well challenge this esteemed group.

What's your favorite Coachella lineup of all time? Share your thoughts in the comments below!