Austin City Limits Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Hippie Haven, Bat City, and Live Music Capital of the World–Austin, Texas has earned itself many colorful nicknames. The city is home to a number of incredible events each year. The popular film and music festival South by Southwest attracts over 300,000 people to Austin each year, while the Formula 1 Grand Prix draws in a crowd of around 430,000. However, one event tops both in popularity: Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL).
Everything is bigger in Texas, and ACL is no exception. The festival takes place at Zilker Metropolitan Park, a 351-acre recreational area along Lady Bird Lake. The festival spans a total of 6 days over the first two weekends in October each year. Since its start in 2002, ACL has grown to feature over 140 artists on nine stages. Approximately 75,000 people attend the massive music festival each day, making it one of the largest music festivals in the United States.
ACL is an unforgettable experience, from the performances to the weather to the sheer mass of crowds. Festival goers have weathered extreme heat, brutal winds and dust, and unexpected rain and cold–rain or shine, the show goes on. This year, Sunday of Weekend 2 was the second hottest day in the history of ACL. Temperatures reached a brutal 101º, making it only the second day of the festival to reach the triple digits. A timeline of significant events in the festival’s history can be found below.
Music of Austin, Texas
Plenty of artists paid homage to Texas or Austin during their sets. Texas native Leon Bridges delivered an unforgettable performance of “Texas Sun”, while up-and-coming Dasha didn’t miss with her crowd-favorite “Austin”. Willie Nelson, now 91 years old, made two surprise appearances during weekend two! On Friday, Nelson joined Chris Stapleton to perform “Whisky River” and “Bloody Mary Morning”. The Austin icon appeared again on Saturday, this time with Orville Peck, to serenade the crowd with “Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond Of Each Other”.
Eats and Amenities
If your boots stop working, your truck breaks down, or you find yourself needing a break from the music for any reason, ACL’s Beyond the Music has you covered. These attractions are scattered throughout the park and offer limited edition merch, free festival memorabilia, and photo ops. Honda Recharge Retreat, Miller Lite Bar 75, T-Miller Club Magenta, and the Amex Experience provide shady seats, cooling stations, yard games, free phone charging and wifi, and premium giveaways. In addition to iconic orange and black bandanas, Tito’s Handmade Vodka now has exclusive ACL-themed merch for the first time in 2024.
ACL Market is located in the center of Zilker and features quirky goods from local vendors. Here, festival goers can shop for plants, clothing, hats, candles, koozies, and one-of-a-kind Austin-themed merch. But it’s not all about consumerism–local grocer H-E-B is committed to keeping Austin green and reports recycling approximately 740,000 cans from ACL in 2023.
When it’s time to refuel, ACL Eats has a wide variety of grub that caters to a variety of dietary restrictions. There are over 60 food vendors, with every single one offering options that are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free. La Pachanga curated by Taco Mafia on PBS. Don’t forget to head over to ACL Sweets after to snag a treat from one of the 12 dessert vendors, including Tiff’s Treats and Bananarchy.
The Big Tent, formerly known as The Barton Springs Beer Hall, has exciting new food and drink options to accompany its fresh new name. Bambino made its debut inside the shaded tent this year, serving 12-inch wood-fired pizzas (with gluten- and dairy-free options, of course) in a convenient location for those who chose to watch football on the large screens. The Red River Showdown brought Longhorn fans together as they watched their team take on the Oklahoma Sooners. Although off to a slow start, Texas emerged victorious and swept the annual rivalry 34-3.
Safety
Safety is a priority at ACL Music Festival. Hydration stations were scattered throughout the grounds to ensure festival goers were hydrated, and boxed water was thrown out to the large crowds prior to and during performances. Artists often encourage crowds to drink water, eat food, and look out for one another. Multiple artists, including Orville Peck and Chappell Roan, stopped mid-performance to ensure members of the crowd received medical attention. This Must Be The Place is a nonprofit organization that travels to music festivals throughout the states. Travers-Hayward and associates provided free Narcan nasal spray, as well as education about signs and symptoms of drug overdose and how to reverse it. The World Health Organization estimates that 69,000 people die from opioid overdose each year, making free Narcan and education a truly priceless resource.
ACL is family friendly, and encourages music lovers to start their festival experience young. Kids under 8 years of age entered the festival free of charge when accompanied by a ticket-holding adult. Austin Kiddie Limits provided an array of activities for the little ones, such as crafts, line dancing lessons, a drum zone, temporary “tattooz”, and a rainbow chalk wall. The ACL Bonus Tracks stage is tucked away in a grove of trees adorned with colorful banners, and features activities such as drag shows, caricature drawings, and dance lessons.
Joe P
Joe P performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)In his basement studio in New Jersey, Joe P poured his heart and soul into writing, recording, and producing his most honest music to date. The result was a raw and authentic expression of himself, free from pretense and unnecessary frills. Emerging from isolation as his truest self, Joe P began sharing his music on TikTok. His homegrown creations quickly gained traction, attracting a following of nearly 300,000 and millions of views in just a few months. Fans enthusiastically shared his music, and his talent caught the attention of Zane Lowe, who duetted a video of Joe performing a snippet of "Fighting in the Car," propelling his career forward.
Being Dead
Being Dead performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Falcon Bitch and Gumball, a Texas-based duo of multi-instrumentalists, are best friends with a penchant for storytelling. They often recount elaborate tales of their first meeting, whether as chimney sweeps in the 18th century, shoemakers in England, or rival acrobats in a traveling circus. This playful spirit extends to their musical project, Being Dead, where they blend jest and sincerity in their music. Their close friendship encourages both Falcon Bitch and Gumball to embrace their unique personalities and challenge the absurdities of the world through their music. Their style is characterized by slick, dreamy guitar strums, gritty percussion, and kaleidoscopic harmonies.
Jordy
Jordy performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Jordy, an openly gay American pop artist, fearlessly incorporates his identity into his music. His goal is to challenge the prevalent portrayal of straight relationships in popular songs and create a more inclusive musical landscape. Jordy's hit song "Just Friends" reflects his struggles with unrequited love and his desire to avoid the friend zone. The cover art, featuring two men holding hands, serves as a powerful statement of his identity and beliefs. His debut album, "Mind Games," explores a past relationship he had with another man, offering a personal and honest account of his experiences.
Jonah Kagen
Jonah Kagen performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Jonah Kagen, a singer-songwriter from Savannah, Georgia, began playing guitar at the age of six. Inspired by his musician grandfather and the finger-style technique of guitarist Andy McKee, Kagen developed a deep passion for the instrument and its technical capabilities. He recalls, "He opened my eyes to what an acoustic guitar could be." This newfound inspiration ignited his own creative journey. Kagen's debut EP, "georgia got colder," was released on Arista Records. He has quickly gained momentum, accumulating over 200 million global streams, supporting Maisie Peters on a US tour, and boasting nearly 2 million monthly Spotify listeners.
Goldie Boutilier
Goldie Boutilier performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Goldie Boutilier is a Canadian singer-songwriter whose music is influenced by the country legends Tammy Wynette and Dolly Parton. Known for its cinematic quality and exploration of tragic romance, glamour, and melancholia, Goldie's music reflects her unique upbringing and experiences. Growing up in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Goldie began performing at the age of five, using her family's junkyard as a rehearsal space. At 21, she signed her first record deal with Interscope Records. Despite facing challenges and changes in the music industry, Goldie eventually returned to her hometown roots and reestablished herself as an alt-country star with a nod to 1950s and 1960s Americana. As an independent artist, she has achieved impressive success, accumulating over 11 million streams on streaming platforms in just two years.
Nico Vega
Nico Vega performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Nico Vega is a dynamic indie rock trio known for their edgy sound, pop sensibilities, and theatrical flair. Formed by singer-songwriter Aja Volkman, the band's origins can be traced back to Valencia, California, where Volkman was studying acting at the California Institute of the Arts. Inspired by her passion for music, Volkman left CalArts to pursue her vocal career.
Valencia Grace
Valencia Grace performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Valencia Grace, a talented English digital content creator and musician, was born in Oxford. Known for her comedic dance video shorts and pop music, Valencia joined the TikTok community and quickly amassed a large following. She has collaborated with popular songs like "Cool Kids" by Echosmith, "Dame Tu Cosita (feat. Cutty Ranks)" by El Chombo, and "Malibu" by Miley Cyrus in her TikTok videos. Valencia embarked on her music career, releasing her debut singles "It Was You" and "Goodbye." Her creative talents extend across both digital content and music, making her a versatile and rising star in the entertainment industry.
Jon Muq
Jon Muq performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Jon's music transports listeners through the extraordinary journey of his life, which began in a humble suburban slum in Kampala, Uganda. As a young boy, he discovered his creative passion while sitting in his leaky-roofed home, listening to his parents and sisters' late-night conversations and gazing at the moonlight filtering through the cracks in the roof. At school, Jon's love for music blossomed as he lingered after class to listen to the school band. He was captivated by the harmonious blend of trumpets, drums, and trombones. When invited to join the band, Jon quickly mastered the trumpet by ear, becoming one of the group's top performers without formal music training.
Bob Schneider
Bob Schneider performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Son to an operatic singer, Schneider learned to play the piano and guitar at a young age and began to perform at his parents’ parties. Prior to his solo career, the singer played in a number of bands including the funk-rock outfit Joe Rockhead, which he dropped out of the Universsty of Texas at El Paso to contribute fully to. After three independent releases the band split and Schneider joined funk-fused jam-band the Ugly Americans, which signed to Capricorn Records. After co-founding the band The Scabs, the musician left the band life to pursue a solo career, which would take a more acoustic approach than he had previously. His debut album released through Universal was called “Lonelyland” and was also the moniker Schneider used when he first went solo. The song “Big Blue Sea” from the album received a steady stream of radio airplay, with follow up “Metal & Steel” the musician's most played song.
Lola Young
Lola Young performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)South London singer-songwriter Lola Young blends ambient electronic beats with heartfelt, hook-laden songs that explore themes of vulnerability. Beginning to write music at the tender age of 11, Young's talent was quickly recognized, leading to a national open mic competition win at just 13. Passionate about her craft, Young attended The BRIT School, a renowned arts institution that has also nurtured the talents of Amy Winehouse and Rex Orange County. During her time there, she honed her creative and stylistic identity.
Balthvs
Balthvs performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Balthvs, a Colombian psychedelic funk trio based in Bogotá, was formed in the countryside during the pandemic. Escaping the city during uncertain times, the band sought a peaceful environment to inspire their music. Comprising guitarist/vocalist Balthazar Aguirre, bassist/vocalist Johanna Mercuriana, and drummer/vocalist Santiago Lizcano, Balthvs's genre-defying sound fuses cumbia, surf rock, funk, and Turkish musical influences. Their lyrics, sung in both English and Spanish, and instrumental compositions blend mysticism with psychedelic elements. Aguirre notes that Colombia's rich history of traditional medicine and plant use has significantly influenced their music.
The Beaches
The Beaches performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)The Beaches, formed in 2013, were already seasoned musicians despite their young age. Sisters Jordan and Kylie Miller, along with their childhood friend Eliza Enman-McDaniel, had been playing together since their junior high days in their first band, Done With Dolls. While Done With Dolls achieved success with their debut album and a theme song for a popular TV show, the girls were eager to explore a new musical direction. Inspired by bands like The Pretenders, Nirvana, and The Strokes, they formed The Beaches, a nod to their Toronto neighborhood. Recognized as Breakthrough Group of the Year at the Juno Awards, The Beaches have toured with notable acts like Eagles of Death Metal and Death From Above 1979. Their energetic live performances and vintage-inspired style have solidified their place in the music scene.
Emei
Emei performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Emei, an alternative pop singer from Los Angeles, California, is a rising star with a unique background. Born in New Jersey to Chinese immigrant parents, she gained early recognition by competing in reality shows like Chinese Idol and Dancing with the Stars as a teenager. After graduating from Yale with a degree in cognitive neuroscience, Emei's music career took off when her single "Late to the Party" went viral on TikTok. She has since released two EPs, "End of an Era" and "Scatterbrain," featuring popular songs like "Irresponsible," "Cynical," and "Don't Know About the World." Emei will embark on The Cynical Tour, further solidifying her position as a promising artist in the alternative pop scene.
She She She
She She She performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Say She She, the soulful female-led trio, delivers a disco-delic masterpiece with their sophomore album, "Silver" (released September 29 on Colemine/Karma Chief Records). Led by the powerful voices of Piya Malik, Sabrina Mileo Cunningham, and Nya Gazelle Brown, Say She She's music is a fusion of disco, soul, and funk. Formed in Manhattan, the trio's friendship blossomed over shared nights on the city's dance floors and rooftops. "Silver" was recorded live to tape at Killion Sound studio in North Hollywood, produced by Sergio Rios, and inspired by musical influences like Rotary Connection, Asha Puthli, Liquid Liquid, Grace Jones, and Tom Tom Club. Beyond their musical talent, Say She She is known for their empowering message and fearlessness in addressing important issues. Their music is a celebration of individuality, beauty, and open dialogue.
Teddy Swims
Teddy Swims performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Teddy Swims, the stage name for Atlanta singer-songwriter Jaten Dimsdale, has crafted a distinctive sound by blending elements of pop, rock, soul, and country. With a background in musical theater and touring with Atlanta-based bands, Swims gained valuable stage experience.Swims' YouTube covers of artists like Michael Jackson and Shania Twain garnered millions of views, leading to a record deal with Warner Records. Swims has collaborated with notable artists such as Meghan Trainor, X Ambassadors, and Illenium, showcasing his versatility and talent.
Elyanna
Elyanna performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Elyanna, a Palestinian-Chilean singer born in Nazareth, Israel, made her debut iwith her self-titled EP. After signing with Universal Arabic Music, she released her full-length album, "Elyanna 2", featuring the popular singles "Al Kawn Janni Maak" and "Ghareeb Alay." Elyanna achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first artist to perform a set entirely in Arabic at the Coachella Arts & Music Festival.
Remi Wolf
Remi Wolf performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Remi Wolf, a singer-songwriter from California, rose to fame after appearing on American Idol. Following her graduation from USC Thornton School of Music, Wolf launched her solo career with the self-released EP "You're A Dog!". She quickly gained recognition with her major-label debut EP, "I'm Allergic To Dogs!".
Wave To Earth
Wave To Earth performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Wave to Earth, a three-member indie pop band from Seoul, South Korea, consists of singer-songwriter Daniel Kim, drummer Dong Kyu Shin, and bassist John Cha. Known for their lo-fi sound rooted in jazz drumming, the band creates a dreamy atmosphere with a unique sense of the seasons. Committed to a DIY approach, Wave to Earth handles all aspects of their music, from recording and mixing to album art, videos, and fashion. They debuted with the single "wave," followed by the EPs "wave 0.01" and "summer flows 0.02." After joining the Wavy Seoul label, they released the singles "nouvelle vague" and "calla." Their name, "Wave to Earth," reflects their ambition to become a leading force in the music industry and expand their reach worldwide.
Braxton Keith
Braxton Keith performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)"I aim to revive the traditional values of old-school country music with a modern twist," says Braxton Keith, whose music blends contemporary hooks with the classic twang of storytellers like Marty Robbins and Merle Haggard. Hailing from Midland, Texas, Keith began writing songs as a teenager. Since then, this 20-something songwriter has been constantly on the road, driving his own tour bus, and in the recording studio. His debut single, "Make Up Your Mind," garnered over 1 million streams on Spotify, followed by viral hits like "A Little Bit Closer," "Cold Hard Steel Sand," and "Settle for a Beer." Keith's music has resonated with audiences in Texas and beyond, thanks to his authentic country sound and relatable lyrics.
Benson Boone
Benson Boone performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Benson Boone, a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Monroe, Washington, gained a following on TikTok before signing with Dan Reynolds' Night Street Records. His debut single, "GHOST TOWN," was released that year, followed by "In the Stars," which charted on the Billboard Hot 100. Boone released his debut EP, "Walk Me Home..." and his subsequent EP, "PULSE" which coincided with a worldwide tour. He released the lead single "Beautiful Things" ahead of his debut album, "Fireworks and Rollerblades." "Beautiful Things" became Boone's highest-charting release, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Renee Rapp
Renee Rapp performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Reneé Rapp, a North Carolina native, has always had a passion for music. Even as a child, she couldn't imagine life without it. "I couldn't sit still in the car unless there was music," she says. "Otherwise, I would cry the entire time." Rapp began exploring her creativity by writing and recording songs as a teenager. Her career took a significant leap when she landed the coveted role of Regina George in the Tony-nominated Broadway musical "Mean Girls." Following this success, she gained widespread recognition for her performance as Leighton on the HBO Max series "The Sex Lives of College Girls." Now, Rapp is focusing on her music career, sharing her personal insecurities through songs like "Tattoos." With a uniquely bold showcase of vulnerability, Rapp aims to connect with her growing fanbase and create music that resonates with listeners.
Jungle
Jungle performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Jungle, a rising British soul duo, is revitalizing the electro-soul genre with their brass and synth-laden anthems and captivating choreography. Expanding to a seven-piece band for live performances, Jungle delivers energetic renditions of hits like "Busy Earnin'" and "Heat," keeping audiences dancing throughout the night. With their impressive live shows and growing popularity, Jungle is a must-see act for fans of funky music.
Pretty Lights
Pretty Lights performing at the ACL Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Pretty Lights, a musical project renowned for its innovative blend of electronic beats, poetic samples, and modular synthesizers, creates intricate sonic tapestries that transport listeners to otherworldly realms. Combined with dynamic light shows, Pretty Lights seamlessly blends the past and future, creating a captivating and immersive experience.
Austin City Limits Music Festival
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