The final day of the first weekend of the 2024 Austin City Limits Music Festival, Sunday, October 6th, brought a fitting conclusion to an exhilarating three days at Zilker Park. With the Texas heat still a prominent factor, festival-goers arrived ready to soak in every last drop of music and experience the unique atmosphere that ACL is known for. The day’s lineup promised a diverse range of sounds, from country and indie pop to hip-hop, culminating in a highly anticipated headlining performance.
The early hours of Sunday saw a mix of local favorites and rising stars taking the stage. West 22nd, a band formed by University of Texas students, brought a thrilling energy to the Tito’s Tent. Their dynamic sound and engaging presence captivated a packed crowd, showcasing their rapid rise from local performances to the prestigious festival stage. Their catchy single “Sunburns” proved to be a crowd-pleaser, highlighting the strong local talent nurtured by ACL.
Over at the T-Mobile stage, Malcolm Todd kicked off his set with an infectious energy, drawing a sizable crowd eager to rock out. The indie-rock artist effortlessly connected with fans, inviting them to join in the fun. His performance featured the much-anticipated debut of “Electric Feel,” which had the audience vibing along, especially during the catchy bridge. Todd’s charisma shone through as he signed a pink American flag for a fan and playfully launched into the iconic iCarly theme song, demonstrating his impressive vocals and stage presence.
A standout performance in the afternoon came from Glass Beams Group at the Tito’s Stage. This up-and-coming band captivated the crowd with their unique fusion of indie pop and electronic sounds. Formed by Australian Indian artist Rajan Silva, the group skillfully blends Eastern musical elements with Western influences, creating a refreshing sound. Dressed in striking golden masks, their electrifying performance, filled with shimmering synths and catchy melodies, made their set a highlight of the day.
As the sun began to dip, the American Express stage became a focal point for one of the most anticipated acts of the weekend: Chappell Roan. Sunday’s performance drew a large sea of “Pink Pony Club” members. Fans, many dressed in pink and cowboy hats, had waited hours to secure their spots, and Roan did not disappoint. Her set was a powerhouse display of her polished performance, featuring eye-catching outfits, dynamic on-screen graphics, and hits from “The Rise and Fall of the Midwest Princess.”
Roan’s set, which included fan favorites like “Hot to Go!” and “Pink Pony Club,” was a testament to her undeniable connection with her audience. Her energy was infectious, and the crowd sang along to every word, creating a truly immersive experience. For many, this was her last performance of 2024, and she ensured it was a memorable one, with the crowd for her performance spanning a significant portion of Zilker Park.
The evening’s climax saw two major headliners close out the festival’s first weekend. On the Honda stage, industry veteran and modern torchbearer of Outlaw Country, Sturgill Simpson, delivered a much-anticipated performance. His set was a powerful journey through his storied career, showcasing his deep connection to the country genre. Simpson’s musicianship was evident in every note, and he even included a touching cover of When in Rome’s “The Promise,” allowing him to emphasize the meaning of every line.
Meanwhile, on the American Express stage, Tyler, The Creator, brought a bold and eccentric close to the festival. His performance, coming just weeks before the release of his new album “CHROMAKOPIA,” was a high-energy spectacle. Tyler opened with “Lemonhead” and had the crowd jumping under the moonlight. He performed 20 songs, concluding with four of his biggest hits, including “Who Dat Boy,” “EARFQUAKE,” “NEW MAGIC WAND,” and “See You Again,” leaving the audience with an unforgettable finale.
Other notable acts on Day 3 included Jess Glynne, who delivered a strong performance on the Miller Lite Stage, and Orville Peck, who brought a classic country vibe to his set, complete with a flame-embellished cowboy outfit. Peck’s smooth, gravelly voice and heartfelt renditions, including “No Glory in the West,” resonated deeply with the audience, as he openly discussed his struggles with depression and emphasized the importance of self-care.
