Lollapalooza celebrates 25 years with four days of music merriment

Lollapalooza, known to many as simply Lolla, the climax of the summer music festival season, is arriving in Chicago this week. Since 2005, the Second City has been home to this 3-day, multi-genre festival, started in 1991 by Perry Farrell (Jane’s Addiction). New for 2016 is the expansion of Lollapalooza from three days to four days – giving festivalgoers an extra day to enjoy some of the biggest and up-and-coming artists in the music industry.

With eight stages, over fifty aftershows, and festival headliners like J. Cole, Jane’s Addiction, LCD Soundsystem, and Radiohead, here is a look ahead at some of the must-see performances of Lollapalooza’s 25-year anniversary:

Chris Stapleton: Having been a songwriter for nearly 20 years, Chris Stapleton released his debut album, Traveller, in mid-2015. With his soulful voice and country-bluegrass rhythms, Stapleton is a great alternative for festivalgoers who prefer a more serene and alluring performance; a break from the chaos that comes with Lollapalooza weekend. Chris Stapleton performs Saturday, July 30^th on the historic Petrillo Bandshell stage at 5:45pm.

Danny Brown: The “Detroit Versus Everybody” MC, is preparing to release a new studio album this fall, Atrocity Exhibition and Lollapalooza is the ideal backdrop to not only promote the much-anticipated release, but to also enjoy his earlier work. Known for his provocative lyrics, energetic beats, variable flow, and effervescent live performances, Danny Brown and his rip-roaring persona take the Petrillo Bandshell stage on Thursday, July 28^th at 4:00pm.

Leon Bridges: Influenced by the musical styles of the soul singers of the 50s and 60s, the 27-year-old singer and guitarist released his debut album, Coming Home, in the summer of 2015. From his crisp voice, to his ruminating lyrics, to his choice of clothing, Bridges, who also sings gospel music, is a modern-day tribute to the golden era of soul and R&B. For festival attendees who have an appreciation for music with a time-honored sound, Leon Bridges takes the Bud Light stage on Saturday, July 30^th at 4:45pm.

Marian Hill: On the heels of the release of their debut album, ACT ONE, Jeremy Lloyd and Samantha Gongol, collectively known as Marian Hill, bring their jazz-infused electro-pop sound to the Lollapalooza stage. The duo behind the successful single “One Time” are known for their simplistic yet layered approach to music – utilizing minimal instruments to produce an eclectic sound and frequently collaborating with saxophonist Steve Davit. Marian Hill performs on Sunday, July 31^st at 2:25pm on the Samsung stage.