🎤Article updated on April 23, 2025
Hey music lovers, it’s your go-to editor from Lyricscousins, diving into the sun-soaked, star-studded chaos that was Coachella 2025! Held over two weekends (April 11-13 and 18-20) at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, this year’s festival was a rollercoaster of epic highs, unexpected lows, and moments that had us screaming, “Only at Coachella!” From Lady Gaga’s operatic extravaganza to technical glitches and a viral face-plant, here’s our listener’s take on the festival’s best and worst moments. Let’s break it down.
The Best Moments: Pure Musical Magic 🌟
Coachella 2025 delivered performances that left us buzzing, with artists pulling out all the stops to make the desert sing. These were the sets and surprises that had Lyricscousins fans raving.
Lady Gaga’s Theatrical Triumph 🎭
Lady Gaga headlined Friday night with a set that felt like a neoclassical opera dropped into the desert. Her performance, themed around her latest album Mayhem, transformed the main stage into a towering, gothic spectacle complete with two dozen dancers and multiple costume changes—think feathered gowns and sheer lace veils. She seamlessly wove new tracks like “Abracadabra” with classics like “Judas,” proving why she’s a once-in-a-generation icon. The crowd lost it when she descended from a high platform, belting with unmatched intensity. For Lyricscousins listeners, this was Coachella’s pinnacle—aliteral—a masterclass in showmanship.
Charli XCX’s Brat-Fueled Party 💚
Charli XCX turned Saturday into a neon-green Brat victory lap. Her high-energy set was pure chaos in the best way, with surprise appearances from Lorde, Billie Eilish, and Troye Sivan sending fans into a frenzy. The moment Lorde strutted out for the “Girl, so confusing” remix, singing “You walk like a bitch,” the internet exploded. Charli’s quick-cut visuals and knee-high boots screamed unapologetic pop, and her raucous crowd proved she’s a future headliner. Lyricscousins tip: Keep an eye on Charli—she’s redefining festival energy.
Missy Elliott’s Out-of-This-World Vibes 🚀
Missy Elliott brought her “Out of This World” tour energy to Friday’s main stage, delivering a career-spanning set that was equal parts nostalgic and futuristic. Her UFO-themed costume, complete with a bedazzled bicycle helmet, was a vibe, and hits like “Get Ur Freak On” had the crowd bouncing. What made it special? Her ability to connect with fans, young and old, through slick choreography and infectious energy. For Lyricscousins readers, Missy’s set was a reminder of hip-hop’s enduring power.
Unexpected Cameos Galore 🎉
Coachella thrives on surprises, and 2025 was no exception. Benson Boone’s Friday set saw Queen’s Brian May join for a jaw-dropping “Bohemian Rhapsody,” with Boone channeling Freddie Mercury in a regal cape. Mustard’s star-packed performance featured YG, Ella Mai, Big Sean, Tyga, Roddy Ricch, and 2 Chainz, turning the stage into a rap hit parade. And who could forget Three 6 Mafia bringing out Travis Barker, Machine Gun Kelly, and Wiz Khalifa for a ‘90s rap revival? These moments had Lyricscousins buzzing with excitement.
The LA Philharmonic’s Desert Symphony 🎻
The Los Angeles Philharmonic made history with their Coachella debut, conducted by Gustavo Dudamel. Their set blended classical standards with pop collabs, featuring LL Cool J, Laufey, Becky G, and Zedd. Picture Zedd’s “Clarity” backed by a world-class orchestra as the sun set over the mountains—pure magic. For Lyricscousins fans who love genre-bending moments, this was a highlight that screamed Coachella’s creative spirit.
The Worst Moments: Desert Disappointments 😕
Not every moment sparkled under the desert sun. From technical hiccups to controversial choices, these were the lows that had Lyricscousins listeners shaking their heads.
Mustard’s Missed Opportunity 🎵
Mustard’s Friday midnight set was a hit parade of rap bangers, but it left fans wanting more. After a string of guest stars, he ended on Kendrick Lamar’s “tv off” instead of the crowd-pleaser “Not Like Us.” The set wrapped 10 minutes early, leaving the audience confused and chanting for an encore that never came. Lyricscousins readers noted the wasted momentum—why skip the biggest track of the year?
Technical Troubles Plague Performances 🔌
Coachella’s sound issues reared their ugly head again. Megan Thee Stallion’s set, despite killer cameos from Queen Latifah and Ciara, was marred by microphone glitches that dulled her genre-bending energy. BigXthaPlug’s Sunday performance suffered from a low vocal mix, frustrating fans spilling out of the Gobi tent. For Lyricscousins listeners, these technical fails were a reminder that even the biggest festivals can fumble the basics.
d4vd’s Viral Face-Plant 🤕
Rising star d4vd had a rough moment when he attempted a backflip during his Gobi stage set and landed face-first. The fall went viral, but he recovered like a pro, later joking on social media, “humiliation ritual complete.” While Lyricscousins admires his resilience, the incident overshadowed his soulful performance—a bummer for a promising newcomer.
Kneecap’s Polarizing Statement 🗣️
Irish rap trio Kneecap sparked controversy by displaying “Fuck Israel / Free Palestine” onscreen during their set. While some appreciated the bold stance, others felt it alienated fans and lacked nuance at a music festival. Lyricscousins believes music can spark dialogue, but this move felt out of place amid the desert’s escapist vibe.
The Heat and Logistics Nightmare ☀️
Coachella 2025 was brutally hot, with temperatures hitting 103°F—10-20 degrees above average. Fans endured long lines, some stretching 12 hours for camping access, and triple-digit heat that left blisters and exhaustion. One Lyricscousins reader shared a story of a $250 emergency dental visit after a crispy onion dislodged their retainer. Ouch! The festival’s logistics and weather tested even the most dedicated attendees.
Offstage Shenanigans: Fashion and Fiascoes 👗
Coachella isn’t just about music—it’s a cultural moment. The offstage antics, from fashion highs to eyebrow-raising choices, kept Lyricscousins talking.
Style Icons and Oops Moments ✨
Lady Gaga’s dramatic costumes set the bar, but others shone too. Blackpink’s Jennie rocked a crimson cowgirl look, while Charli XCX glowed with Dermalogica skincare. On the flip side, Julia Fox’s exposed backside in a leather mini cape raised eyebrows, and Timothée Chalamet’s long-sleeve tee in 100-degree heat had fans questioning his desert survival skills. Lyricscousins loves the bold fashion, but some looks were more “oops” than iconic.
Celebrity Sightings and Political Sparks 🌟
The festival drew A-listers like Justin and Hailey Bieber, who hosted a star-studded party, and Cardi B, spotted at the Revolve House. Bernie Sanders surprised everyone by introducing Clairo, urging Gen Z to fight for climate change and women’s rights. His speech was a hit with Lyricscousins fans who vibe with music’s social impact, but it clashed with the festival’s escapist mood for others.
Yo Gabba Gabba!’s Wholesome Chaos 🤪
The cast of Yo Gabba Gabba! delivered one of the weekend’s wildest moments, performing “Rainbow Connection” with Weird Al and Flavor Flav. It was absurd, joyous, and quintessentially Coachella. Lyricscousins readers called it the ultimate escape—a reminder to embrace the festival’s weird side.
Why Coachella 2025 Mattered 🎡
Despite the hiccups, Coachella 2025 proved why it remains a global music mecca. The festival balanced nostalgia (Green Day, The Go-Go’s) with fresh faces (Tyla, Enhypen), showcasing music’s past, present, and future. For Lyricscousins listeners, it was a reminder that live music thrives on unpredictability—whether it’s a perfect set or a viral mishap. As we gear up for Weekend 2, keep checking Lyricscousins for the latest music news and festival insights. What was your favorite Coachella moment? Drop it in the comments on our site!