WEEKEND MUSIC TIP PT 100 LOLLAPALOOZA

WORDS BY BILLY BURRELL

Every summer, Berlin’s festival calendar revolves around one weekend. Lollapalooza returns to the Olympiapark with another line-up that spans continents, genres and generations, bringing together household names, cult favourites and artists on the cusp of something bigger. Across two days, pop sits comfortably alongside techno, indie, hip hop and everything in between, making it one of the city’s most eclectic musical gatherings. It is just as much about discovery as it is the headliners, with emerging acts sharing the bill alongside established names from across the globe. Before making your way between stages this weekend, these are the eight performances we’d recommend adding to your schedule.

SATURDAY

LILY ALLEN

Nearly two decades after Smile introduced her sharp wit and unmistakable voice, Lily Allen remains one of Britain’s most compelling pop artists. Following a year spent touring West End Girl, she brings the acclaimed show to Lollapalooza, performing the album in its entirety from start to finish. Expect the same blend of honesty, humour and vulnerability that has defined her career, alongside the sharp lyricism and irresistible pop sensibility that first made her one of Britain’s most distinctive voices.

ATARASHII GAKKO!

Few live acts are as exhilarating or unpredictable as Japan’s ATARASHII GAKKO! Blending J-pop, punk, jazz, hip-hop and performance art into an explosive spectacle, the quartet has earned a global following through their infectious energy and fearless originality. With synchronised choreography, theatrical costumes and an irrepressible stage presence, their set promises to be one of the weekend’s most unforgettable performances.

LOVEFOXY

Berlin-born Lovefoxy is part of a new generation reshaping the city’s electronic scene. Drawing from the euphoric sounds of ’90s house while adding her own contemporary edge, she has quickly built a reputation for energetic sets and a magnetic stage presence. Blending club culture, performance and a distinct visual identity, Lovefoxy brings the spirit of Berlin’s underground to the big stage.

ZARA LARSSON

Zara Larsson has spent the past decade refining the formula of contemporary pop. From the global success of Lush Life to her collaborations and solo hits including Symphony and Never Forget You, the Swedish singer has built a world of precision, confidence and effortless hooks. With her signature vocals and immaculate stage presence, Larsson brings the kind of polished pop spectacle that has made her an international favourite.

SUNDAY

ZARTMANN

Zartmann has quickly established himself as one of Germany’s most interesting new voices, blending indie, hip-hop and alternative pop with a deeply personal approach to songwriting. His understated delivery and sharp lyricism have earned him a growing audience, placing him among the country’s most exciting emerging artists. He’s from Berlin too, so expect a rousing reception.

SELF ESTEEM

Another Brit, Rebecca Lucy Taylor’s project Self Esteem has become one of contemporary music’s most vital artistic voices. Combining razor-sharp lyricism with theatrical pop, gospel influences and unapologetic honesty, her performances explore confidence, vulnerability and identity with remarkable intensity. Equal parts concert and cathartic celebration, her live shows leave a lasting impression.

BOYS NOIZE

Hailing from Hamburg but based in Berlin, Boys Noize returns to home turf with the uncompromising electronic sound that has made him one of the world’s most respected DJs and producers. Moving effortlessly between techno, electro and acid house, his high-energy sets are driven by relentless rhythms and precision mixing. Expect one of the festival’s most exhilarating late-night dancefloor moments.

ANITTA

Anitta has become one of Brazil’s biggest global exports, blending funk carioca, reggaeton, pop and Latin rhythms into a sound entirely her own. With bold performances and sharp choreography, she has brought Brazilian music to audiences around the world while building a catalogue of international hits. Her appearance at Lollapalooza adds one of the weekend’s most recognisable global names to the line-up.

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