It’s that time of year again! Lollapalooza is coming back to Chicago and with it, the biggest artists and bands across the music world will be lighting up Grant Park. Four days of live music with the widest range in genres will bring together people from all aspects of life, styles and cultures to celebrate this iconic festival. Whether it’s one of the most popular artists or bands out today, or a fast-rising singer ready to make their mark, or a local band on the cusp of breaking out, the stages will be filled with nonstop entertainment.
It was originally conceived in 1991 by Perry Ferrell as a farewell tour for his band Jane’s Addiction. The success and growth was due to the eclectic bands and musicians that played while also having non-music entertainment like Barnum and Bailey that set this festival apart from others. It toured through the early 90’s until it found its home here in Chicago. Lollapalooza had played at Grant Park since 2005, with 2020 being a digital year due to the pandemic. Lollapalooza has become a global brand and hosts festivals in cities all over the world, but it is synonymous with Chicago.
Original photo by Wikimedia Commons user Lacrossewi
We here at Catalyst Ranch really love the creative process of making music. Supporting local artists by giving them a platform to share or create is so exciting to us. We’ve hosted album releases, live music showcases, and provide artists a space to create. Wherever you are in the process of music making, we love to help you shine.
In that way, Lollapalooza is truly apart from most other festivals. Yes, it brings in the biggest names from rock, hip-hop, electronic, etc., but it also provides spaces for the bands just coming up. I remember seeing J. Cole open up for The Cool Kids on some little side stage before he even released a studio album. This is the brilliance of Lollapalooza: While the biggest headline was undoubtedly Eminem making his first appearance there after releasing his Recovery album, it gave the space for an unknown artist to perform in front of people who otherwise may never have had the chance to see him.
This innovative way of showcasing new talent alongside headliners creates opportunities for new music to be heard by a wider range of listeners. This in turn creates collaborations between artists as well, due to the more interactive lineups and stage setups.
Lollapalooza has become an institution here in Chicago. The city helped it grow to what it is today, and this festival will always be a part of the city’s music scenes and culture.
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Visit lollapalooza.com to see the festival’s lineup of artists as well as their Beyond the Music schedule, a set of supporting events which include Chicago cultural opportunities among its brand activations.
