The Hidden Gems of Coachella: Small Print Sets to Seek

What started out as a small festival in the deserts of Palm Springs, has quickly evolved into a cultural phenomenon. Just the word Coachella, brings a slew of thoughts to mind. I recently saw someone on Twitter refer to it as the “influencer Olympics”, and in a way they’re not wrong. All filters, parties, and hashtags aside, Coachella is undeniably the biggest festival in America and the kick off to the season.

This year boasts an impressive group of diverse headliners including; Australian funk band Tame Impala, rapper-writer-director (what can’t he do?) Childish Gambino, and the Queen of Pop, Ariana Grande. While these three in my opinion are worth the ticket price alone, there is an impressive amount of support this year. I’ve chosen five of my favorite support acts that may be in small print on the line up, but are hugely talented.

FKJ

You can catch Vincent Kenton, known as FKJ, throwing down at the Mojave tent on Saturday afternoon. The French multi- instrumentalist is where funk and easy listening collide. French Kiwi Juice is my go to listening music while at work. His early afternoon set time is the perfect kick off to a fun filled evening.

Listen to- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hC8CH0Z3L54

Sofi Tukker

I interviewed the New York based electro- pop duo last year when I first started Mic Drop. They had just come off a Grammy nomination, and their success hasn’t slowed down one bit. The two have been touring and playing festivals non-stop all over the world. Their music has frequently been used in ads for huge companies such as Apple and Bravo, and I can see why.

Listen to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Vx7MTU-UVE

Sheck Wes

Is he a one hit wonder? The hip hop business is doing it’s best to make sure that isn’t the case. The 20-year old rapper has experienced one of the biggest glow ups of 2019 due to his smash hit “Mo Bamba”. From opening for Travis Scott on the Astroworld tour to playing Coachella, he’s sure to bring mosh pits and chaotic energy to the Sahara stage.

Listen to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itImT3vU8KI

Ella Mai

Similar to Sheck Wes, Ella Mai became a staple on the music scene last year after her single, “Boo’d Up” took over the radio. I mean seriously, that song was on every channel for months. After creating the timeless love bop, and winning the 2019 Brit Breakthrough Award, she became a certified R & B star. If you’re needing a break from bass and rap, hit the outdoor theatre and soak in her beautiful sound.

Listen to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4kAYIC5Xzo

Los Tucanes de Tijuana


Coachella has often been criticized in the past for their lack of Latin representation at the festival despite their proximity to the Mexican border, and the demographic of the town in which the festival is held. They’ve made an extra effort in inclusivity this year, making Los Tucanes de Tijuana is a must see. The Mexican quintet will take the main stage on Friday, and even if you don’t speak a lick of Spanish you can’t help but be enchanted by the band’s musical ability and contagious energy.

Listen to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6V44mmvJ3o

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