Golden Gate Park buzzed with anticipation as the third and final day of Outside Lands 2024 kicked off under San Francisco’s typical morning fog. The eclectic lineup promised a day of discovery and reflection, a sonic journey that began with soft melodies and ended in an explosion of energy.
Elyanna: A Star on the Rise
As the sun began to break through the clouds, Elyanna stepped onto the Twin Peaks Stage, captivating the crowd with her unique blend of Arabic pop and Western R&B. The Palestinian-Chilean singer, with her sultry voice and magnetic stage presence, held the audience spellbound. Tracks like “Ana Lahale” showcased her vocal range and her ability to fuse cultures seamlessly. It was clear that Elyanna is not just a rising star; she’s a force to be reckoned with, bringing a fresh, global perspective to the festival’s lineup.
Teddy Swims: Soul-Baring Storyteller
Over on the Lands End Stage, Teddy Swims delivered a set that felt like a heart-to-heart conversation with thousands of his closest friends. With his distinctive voice, which blends elements of soul, R&B, and pop, Swims took the audience on an emotional rollercoaster. His performance of “Bed on Fire” was particularly moving, with his powerful vocals resonating through the park, leaving many in the crowd visibly moved. Swims’ authenticity shone through, making it easy to see why he’s rapidly becoming a household name.
Chappell Roan: Pop’s Next Big Thing
Chappell Roan brought an infectious energy to the main Stage, where she transformed her set into a vibrant celebration of pop music. With her glittery outfit and unfiltered lyrics, Roan’s performance was a joyride through the ups and downs of love, self-discovery, and empowerment. Songs like “Pink Pony Club” had the crowd dancing without a care in the world, her unapologetic honesty striking a chord with anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider. Roan is poised to be pop’s next big thing, and her set was a highlight of the day.
Ben Howard: The Melancholic Poet
Ben Howard’s set felt like a moment of introspection in the midst of the festival’s chaos. The British singer-songwriter’s haunting melodies and introspective lyrics provided a stark contrast to the upbeat acts of the day. Tracks from his latest album, “Is It?” were performed with an almost meditative calm, his voice carrying the weight of a thousand unspoken thoughts. The crowd, initially restless, soon fell into a collective trance, hanging on every word. Howard’s music, like a slow-burning fire, warmed the hearts of those who took the time to listen.
Corinne Bailey Rae: The Soulful Dreamer
Corinne Bailey Rae brought a sense of nostalgia to the day, her voice as smooth and comforting as a warm breeze. The British singer-songwriter’s set was a masterclass in blending soul, jazz, and pop. “Put Your Records On” was a crowd favorite, with the audience singing along to every word, a collective memory of simpler times. Rae’s performance was like a musical embrace, wrapping the crowd in warmth and leaving them with a sense of serenity.
Victoria Monét: A Night to Remember
As the sun set and the lights came up, Victoria Monét closed out the day with a set that was nothing short of electrifying. The R&B powerhouse commanded the stage with a performance that was both sensual and empowering. Monét’s choreography was flawless, her voice even more so, as she delivered hits like “Moment” and “Coastin’.” The crowd was fully engaged, feeding off her energy, and by the time she ended her set the park was a sea of movement and sound, a fitting end to a day filled with musical magic.
Sturgill Simpson: The Rebel Sage
Sturgill Simpson, the maverick of modern country, took the stage with the kind of presence that demands attention. Simpson’s deep, gravelly voice cut through the fog like a beacon, guiding the crowd through a set that was equal parts honky-tonk and existential exploration. “Turtles All the Way Down” had the audience swaying, while “Call to Arms” transformed the polo field into a field of rebellion. His sound, a blend of classic country and psychedelic rock, feels like a genre all his own—a rebellious mix that defies the mainstream while somehow defining it.
As the final notes echoed through Golden Gate Park, it was clear that Day 3 of Outside Lands 2024 was a journey through the spectrum of human emotion, from quiet introspection to unbridled joy. Each artist brought something unique to the table, making this final day a celebration of diversity in music—a reminder of why festivals like Outside Lands are so essential to the cultural fabric.
Photos by Louis Raphael
