Weekend 1 of the Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival, held from October 6-8, 2023, was a dynamic showcase of diverse music, memorable performances, and a plethora of unexpected surprises and unique collaborations that kept festival-goers buzzing throughout. Returning to its iconic home at Zilker Park, ACL 2023 continued to uphold its reputation as one of the most beloved festivals in the U.S., combining big-name headliners with a mix of rising stars, local talent, and unexpected collaborations.
Day One: A Laid-Back Start with Standout Performances – and a Bit of a Letdown
Friday kicked off with a lineup that included indie favorites and genre-bending newcomers. Little Simz, the British-Nigerian rapper, set the T-Mobile stage ablaze with a powerful performance that blended introspective lyrics with a vibrant stage presence. She delivered a mix of tracks from her critically acclaimed album No Thank You, seamlessly flowing between intense verses and contemplative moments, captivating the crowd with her unfiltered honesty and raw energy.
While many anticipated Kendrick Lamar’s headline set that evening, things did not go as planned. His delayed start at the American Express Stage due to reported “plane issues” left fans waiting. When Kendrick finally took the stage, he brought his trademark intensity to impactful selections from his latest album, Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. But after 30 minutes, his set was unexpectedly cut short, much to the crowd’s disappointment. Boos and chants of “We gonna be alright!” echoed across the park as fans vented their frustration over the abrupt ending. This was one of the few low points of the weekend, but it didn’t overshadow the magic that followed.
Day Two: Headliners and Surprises Light Up Saturday
Saturday’s lineup offered a diverse blend of artists, from disco queen Jessie Ware to country music icon Tanya Tucker. Jessie Ware brought her dance-pop magic to the festival, turning the crowd into an open-air disco with hits like “Free Yourself” and an iconic cover of Cher’s “Believe.” Her set was a celebration of groove and glamour, with Ware encouraging fans to dance like nobody was watching.
A very fun but unexpected moment occurred with Thirty Seconds to Mars. As if Jared Leto’s dramatic entrance from far above the stage wasn’t enough to delight the crowd, Austin icon Matthew McConaughey joined the frontman on stage for a little “Dallas Buyers Club” reunion.
Shania Twain, a headliner for Saturday night, delivered a set that balanced pop-country classics with a playful, larger-than-life stage presence. Emerging from a cloud of lavender mist, Twain looked every bit the queen that she is, decked out in a rhinestone-studded outfit, engaging fans with hits from her extensive catalog, from “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” to “That Don’t Impress Me Much.” Just minutes after finishing her own set, Twain made a quick dash across the festival grounds to join Dave Grohl and the band for a lively rendition of “Best of You.”
And speaking of the Foo Fighters, the band closed out Saturday with a high-energy set that spanned their extensive catalog. Dave Grohl and the band played expected fan favorites like “My Hero” and “Everlong” while incorporating covers and unexpected mashups. They kept the energy levels high and proved why they are one of rock’s most enduring acts.
Day Three: A Genre-Bending Grand Finale
Sunday offered a bit of everything, showcasing the festival’s dedication to musical diversity. The day started with performances by folk singer-songwriter Kevin Kaarl, whose dreamy melodies and heartfelt lyrics set a chill vibe for the afternoon. Meanwhile, Morgan Wade brought a rock influence to her country roots, delivering a raw and earnest performance that solidified her status as one of contemporary country music’s rising stars.
Later in the evening, Yeah Yeah Yeahs took the stage with a mind blowing performance. Karen O’s dynamic stage presence, complete with flamboyant costumes and inflatable props, kept the crowd engaged from start to finish. Their set featured hits from their five-album discography, making it a nostalgic trip for longtime fans while also capturing the attention of new listeners.
One of the day’s biggest surprises was the intense, genre-defying set from Death Grips. Their raw energy and unorthodox approach to noise and rap brought an unexpected edge to the lineup, turning the festival grounds into an industrial rave and offering a stark contrast to the otherwise sunny, family-friendly vibes.
Atmosphere, Surprises, and the Unexpected
ACL 2023 wasn’t just about the music; it was an experience filled with surprises and standout moments. The unexpectedly cooler weather was a pleasant change, creating a comfortable environment for attendees, many of whom were prepared for Austin’s usual heat. The festival also featured a dazzling drone show that left fans in awe, offering a brief distraction during Kendrick Lamar’s delayed set and adding a touch of visual artistry to the musical festivities.
From the diverse musical acts to unexpected moments and collaborations, ACL 2023’s first weekend was a testament to the festival’s enduring appeal. It remains a place where music lovers can come together to celebrate a wide range of sounds, from rock and pop to hip-hop and experimental genres. As always, ACL continues to push boundaries and bring together an eclectic mix of artists, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
