Outside Lands Festival Day One at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, CA

Outside Lands Festival launched a multi-genre lineup that showcased up-and-coming stars, illuminating day one’s packed schedule of young and established artists.

Amidst the iconic backdrop of Golden Gate Park, day one of the highly anticipated Outside Lands Festival kicked off with a riveting lineup that left the crowd awestruck. The musical journey began on the Lands End main stage with Ethel Cain, whose haunting melodies and ethereal vocals cast a spell over early festival-goers. The indie rockers’ lead singer AKA Ethel Cain’s unique look and tattooed symbology bring to mind similar iconography seen in indie horror movies. Cain’s unique blend of introspection and raw emotion set the tone for a day brimming with musical innovation.

Next up on the Lands End stage was vocalist Raveena and her performance added a layer of tranquility to the afternoon as her soulful tunes transported listeners to a realm of introspection. With a voice that seemed to carry both wisdom and vulnerability, Raveena effortlessly intertwined her melodies with the gentle sway of the park’s trees, creating an atmosphere of serene enchantment.

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, Becky Hill took to the Twin Peaks stage, instantly commanding the audience’s attention with her powerful vocals and infectious beats. The queen of drum and bass effortlessly blurred the lines between pop and soul, proving her status as an established star to watch again. The festival grounds became a dance floor as her magnetic presence swept through the cheering crowd.

Back on the Lands End main stage, the mood took a dynamic shift with the entrance of Hip Hop superstar JID, who brought a fiery burst of lyrical brilliance to the stage. His rapid-fire delivery and intricate wordplay left no doubt about his prowess as a wordsmith. The audience was entranced by his storytelling, hanging on every verse that pierced through the air like a rallying cry.

Over on the Sutro stage, Willow, a true maverick of sound, delivered a genre-defying performance that transcended expectations. Her experimental approach to music production was a testament to her creative vision, pushing boundaries and embracing the avant-garde. Willow’s set was a sonic tapestry that captivated the crowd, painting a vivid landscape of sonic exploration.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Interpol’s brooding melodies like the smoke from a dark underground night club filled the air, casting a spell of nostalgia and introspection. Their signature post-punk sound resonated with longtime fans and newcomers alike, creating an aura of melancholic allure. The crowd swayed in unison, lost in the embrace of Interpol’s moody and magnetic presence.

One of the headliner finales of the night was none other than the incomparable Janelle Monáe. With a stage presence that was nothing short of electrifying, Monáe unleashed a whirlwind of funk, soul, and unapologetic female empowerment. Her performance was a celebration of individuality, a call to break free from constraints, and a testament to the power of artistic expression.

Day one of Outside Lands was an immersive experience that traversed the spectrum of musical emotions. From Ethel Cain’s haunting melodies to Janelle Monáe’s electrifying anthem, each artist left an indelible mark on the festival’s opening day. As the crowd dispersed, a sense of awe lingered in the air, a testament to the diverse and captivating talents that graced the stage.

OUTSIDE LANDS
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About George Ortiz 76 Articles
George is Southern California and Big Sky, Montana-based photographer. He grew up in Los Angeles and began shooting professionally in the mid 80s. His words and photos have appeared in local & national publications.