6 Artists Disrupting the Music Game at Lollapalooza

MAY 5 2025

By Aleisha Flores

One of the world’s biggest and most iconic music festivals is returning to Chicago’s Grant Park from July 31 to August 3. For over 30 years, Lollapalooza has brought some of the coolest talent to the Windy City, bringing in hundreds of thousands of music lovers to see household names – but also giving rising artists a platform to shine. This year is no different with stars like Sabrina Carpenter, A$AP Rocky, and TWICE headlining the 4-day festival. But here are six Lolla performers on the come up you absolutely can’t miss.

KATSEYE

With six multicultural members representing the Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland, and the United States, KATSEYE is a true global girl group. Since debuting last year, Manon, Sophia, Daniela, Lara, Megan and Yoonchae have generated buzz for their catchy pop hits, synchronized choreography and Pop Star Academy, the viral Netflix documentary about their formation. Fashion legend Humberto Leon also serves as the girls’ creative director, so be sure to stop by KATSEYE’s set for stunning visuals and a fun performance.

Nourished By Time

Many artists can say they are genre-defying, but few can actually venture past one or two genres – and make it sound good. But Baltimore native Marcus Brown executes it perfectly as Nourished By Time, the name of his musical exploration project. In 2023, Brown’s experimental album Erotic Probiotic 2, recorded in his parents’ basement, surprised listeners with never-before-heard blends of 90s R&B, bedroom pop, soul, freestyle, house and even post-punk. Brown has unlocked the code for music of the future, so stop by his Lolla set to be transported into a sonic wonderland.

Jade LeMac

At just 21, Canadian singer-songwriter Jade LeMac is at the top of her game. LeMac went viral on TikTok and Spotify with her 2021 soulful debut single “Constellations,” which immediately captivated fans for her rich vocals. Since then, she has explored all sorts of genres but her heartfelt authenticity and perspective as a queer, half-Asian woman has remained the same. Her lush voice and genuine storytelling are sure to make her set a refreshing experience.

Otoboke Beaver

If you’re looking for an absolutely unhinged, unpredictable explosive punk rock experience true to Lollapalooza’s roots, you don’t have to look much further. Japanese riot girl band Otoboke Beaver will be all up in your face in the best way. Their lore is crazy: the original lineup met in university, they’re named after a “love hotel” in Japan, and their current bassist got her job by simply emailing the founding members asking if she could join the band. Their songs are female frustration unleashed and Dave Grohl himself called Otoboke Beaver “the most fucking intense shit you’ve ever seen.” If their Tiny Desk Concert is anything to go by, you’ll be in for a ride at Lolla. With a song like “Dirty Old Fart is Waiting for My Reaction” under their belt, what else can you expect?

Alemeda

Sudanese-Ethiopian singer-songwriter Alemeda is one of the most interesting new artists to pop up on the scene. She’s the latest artist to sign with TDE, the home of SZA, Doechii, and formerly, Kendrick Lamar. Alemeda’s music seamlessly blends R&B, pop and indie rock through songs like “Gonna Bleach My Eyebrows” and “Post Nut Clarity.” She’s joining Halsey on tour this summer, but if you can’t catch her then, make sure you check her out at Lollapalooza. Also, we love her cats Cinnamon and Truffles.

Dua Saleh

You might already know Dua Saleh as Cal Bowman from the Netflix hit series Sex Education. But if you haven’t listened to their music, you’re missing out. Saleh takes inspiration from everything from 1940s jazz to 90s hip hop to create a unique pop-rap-R&B blend. Their lyrics frequently touch on their experience as a queer, non-binary Sudanese refugee giving listeners a glimpse into their world. Their Lolla set will be a must-see – Saleh confirmed that they’ll be bringing out Dreamer Isioma to perform their newest collab, “Smoking Death.” 

Lollapalooza 4-day and 2-day weekend passes are now sold out, but limited 1-day passes are still available. But don’t worry! The waitlist for available tickets is open. Check out all the ticket packages here.