The Coachella music festival has returned to the Californian desert after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 outbreak. As we know, Coachella is first and foremost a destination for must-see performances by a slew of international artists with a hive of activity, with hundreds of acts taking place every day.
In 2022, we were treated to a beautiful headlining concert by Harry Styles, which included a glittery jumpsuit, new songs, and duets with Shania Twain and Lizzo (with matching faux fur coats). Besides, Billie Eilish made history as the festival's youngest ever headliner, and she had a few surprises up her sleeve, including an acoustic duet of Misery Business with Hayley Williams. Aside from that, Doja Cat continued to prove that she is one of the best performers of her generation, while Pablo Vittar made history as the first drag queen to ever play at Coachella.
However, amid all of the performers, Asian musicians stood out for many, providing some of the festival's most memorable moments. Coachella provided a much-deserved breakout moment for numerous Asian artists, whether it was through explosive sets or history-making performances. The following are only a few of the highlights.
K-POP CONTINUES TO DEFEAT
In addition to the genre's global success, there is an underlying, almost "behind-the-scenes" movement that brings people from all over the world together through their love of Korean pop music while simultaneously educating them to cultural diversity themes. It's not surprising that K-POP would find its way to Coachella.
2NE1 reunites at @Coachella 2022!!! https://twitter.com/Jeff__Benjamin/status/1515529105139281926 - Jeff Benjamin (@jeff_benjamin) Apr 17, 2022
When we first saw this, our spirits ascended to the heavens above. It was undoubtedly the most talked about moment from the festival this year, and one of the best moments of weekend one. We all knew that CL did not disappoint as the baddest female as she performed her hits Spicy and Hello Bitches. But she saved the best for last, as 2NE1 held a surprise reunion, which was purportedly inspired by CL herself. They played their 2011 mega single ‘I Am The Best together’.
THE HISTORY-MAKING AT COACHELLA IN 2022!
While performing at Coachella is a dream come true for many artists, it becomes much more meaningful when that achievement is coupled by history-making participation. And a number of Asian performers were able to do just that for Coachella 2022.
As the first Chinese artist to perform on the Coachella main stage, Jackson Wang made history. His performance was energising, and his powerful stage presence left everyone buzzing. Jackson's Coachella act confirmed what we already knew: he's a fantastic performer.
NIKI made history as the first female Indonesian musician to perform at the prestigious festival. She didn't compromise on her performance, which was backed by a 15-piece orchestra and the works. To mark the occasion, NIKI performed a special cover of Andra & The Backbone's Sempurna, which she dedicated to her parents. Rich Brian, a labelmate from 88Rising, was the first solo Indonesian male to hit the stage at Coachella. During weekend 1, he even debuted a new song called froyo.
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