Stagecoach Festival 2023: Day 1 Highlights
Following the conclusion of Coachella, the Stagecoach country-music festival attracted tens of thousands of attendees to the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. The three-day event commenced on Friday and features headliners such as Zach Bryan, Jelly Roll, and Luke Combs. Here’s a recap of the performances and notable moments from the festival’s opening day.
Main Stage Performances
Zach Bryan Takes Center Stage
Returning to Stagecoach after his debut in 2022, Zach Bryan captivated the audience on the festival’s first night. His performance included a robust set of approximately 30 songs, showcasing his signature blend of raw emotion and musical authenticity, which energized the crowd to sing along fervently.
Dressed in a sleeveless Indian Motorcycles T-shirt, Bryan expressed gratitude to the audience, perhaps addressing recent public scrutiny related to personal matters. Nonetheless, the enthusiasm among festival-goers reflected his enduring popularity, highlighted by a lively rendition of Warren Zevon’s “Lawyers, Guns and Money.”
Lana Del Rey’s Surprising Set
Lana Del Rey took the stage amidst speculation about a forthcoming country album. One standout revelation was her playful admission of a past encounter with Morgan Wallen, referenced in one of her new songs. Accompanied by an acoustic guitar, Del Rey delivered songs that ranged from personal anecdotes to playful commentary on her fame and lifestyle.
Her set featured new lyrics and covers, including classic country tracks, which resonated with both long-time fans and newcomers to her music.
Interactive Experiences and Interviews
Backstage with Brothers Osborne
In a lighthearted backstage interview, Brothers Osborne engaged in a candid discussion about daily life and personal habits. When asked about how often they shampoo their hair, T.J. Osborne humorously admitted to never using shampoo, while John Osborne noted he shampoos once a week. The duo also discussed their phone habits and playful rivalries within the music industry.
Carly Pearce’s Backstage Moments
Carly Pearce shared insights into her daily life, revealing her preference for driving over being driven, and her recent culinary endeavors, which included preparing spaghetti squash. She also humorously regretted a tattoo from her youth and expressed admiration for Martina McBride’s vocal talent.
Noteworthy Guest Appearances and Performances
Paris Hilton DJs at the Festival
Paris Hilton made an appearance, showcasing her DJing skills with a vibrant set that included popular tracks, appealing to the festival’s diverse audience. Her high-energy performance further underscored the eclectic mix of artists present at Stagecoach.
T-Pain Delivers a Memorable Set
Having gained acceptance in the country scene, T-Pain rounded out Day 1 with a dynamic performance in the Palomino tent. He invited Kesha on stage for their collaborative single, showcasing a blend of genres that resonated well with festival-goers.
Conclusion
The first day of Stagecoach 2023 offered a mix of heartfelt performances, engaging interviews, and surprising collaborations, setting the tone for an exciting weekend ahead. As the festival continues, attendees look forward to more memorable moments from a varied lineup of artists.