The Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival kicked off its 2024 edition on Friday, October 4th, at Zilker Park, transforming the sprawling green space into a vibrant hub of sound and spectacle. As the Texas sun began its descent, tens of thousands of eager music lovers poured into the park, ready to immerse themselves in a diverse array of genres, from indie rock and country to pop-punk and R&B. The air buzzed with anticipation, setting the stage for a memorable opening night.
A true ACL tradition, Austin’s own western swing band Asleep at the Wheel, led by the legendary Ray Benson, started the musical proceedings promptly at 12:55 p.m. on the Honda stage. Their familiar tunes offered a comforting and uniquely Austin welcome, easing festival-goers into the day’s events. This early performance underscored ACL’s commitment to showcasing local talent, a thread that would weave throughout the entire festival, with 17 Austin-connected artists gracing the various stages.
The afternoon saw a compelling mix of established acts and rising stars. Mannequin Pussy delivered an impressive performance at the Miller Lite Stage, with vocalist Missy captivating the crowd with her phenomenal stage presence. Their set seamlessly blended new, poppier works with their signature punk tracks, even igniting mosh pits and crowd-surfing early in the day. The energy was palpable, demonstrating their ability to draw in an enthusiastic audience.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the Austin skyline in hues of orange and purple, The Marias drew a large crowd to the T-Mobile stage. Returning to ACL after their 2022 appearance, their psychedelic pop tracks resonated with the audience. Their visually stunning stage production, featuring bright violet lighting, created a perfect contrast against the city lights, enhancing the dreamy atmosphere of their performance.
The evening culminated in a tough choice for many attendees, with two headlining powerhouses, Chris Stapleton and Blink-182, performing concurrently. Chris Stapleton, at the American Express stage, delivered a masterclass in country music. He focused on delivering hit after hit and deep cuts, minimizing talk to maximize the musical experience.
Meanwhile, over at the Honda stage, pop-punk icons Blink-182 ignited the night with a burst of fireworks, launching into their greatest hits like “What’s My Age Again” and “I Miss You.” Their performance was characterized by their signature blend of high-energy music and hilarious, often problematic, banter between vocalists Mark Hoppus and Tom DeLonge. The band’s antics, skits, and crazy visuals carried the show, offering a starkly different yet equally electrifying experience to Stapleton’s soulful set.
Beyond the headliners, other notable performances added to the richness of the first night. Foster the People delivered an electric set of electronic and indie pop, captivating a large crowd with hits like “Pumped Up Kicks” and “Sit Next to Me.” Norah Jones charmed her audience with her distinct jazz vocals, leaning into a funkier sound from her new album “Visions” while still delivering beloved classics. Stephen Sanchez transported his audience to the 1950s and 60s with his crooning voice and Elvis-esque moves, despite technical difficulties and the Texas heat.
Overall, Night 1 of the 2024 ACL Music Fest was a resounding success, a testament to its meticulously curated lineup and the vibrant atmosphere it fosters. From the enduring charm of Austin’s musical staples to the explosive energy of modern pop and rock, the festival delivered a night of diverse and unforgettable musical experiences. The blend of seasoned performers and rising stars, coupled with the enthusiastic crowds and the iconic Zilker Park setting, created a powerful opening statement for the two-weekend event.
