As thousands of music enthusiasts flocked to the desert for Coachella 2025, one name echoed louder than the rest: Travis Scott. His long-awaited return to the iconic festival sparked excitement and speculation, especially following a four-year hiatus. Known for his electrifying performances that blur the lines between concert and experiential art, Scott's return was marked by the debut of two unreleased tracks, captivating not just his fans, but the very essence of musical innovation. Could this performance herald a new direction for Scott's career?
On April 12, 2025, Travis Scott graced the Coachella stage, backed by a striking 60-person marching band that set an ambitious tone for the evening. This marked Scott's first appearance at the festival since 2017, raising the stakes for one of hip-hop's most controversial figures. His performance came just hours after Green Day's earlier set, but Scott's blend of visual and auditory experiences quickly eclipsed memories of the day’s earlier acts, establishing an unforgettable atmosphere.
Scott kicked off his set with "Crush," a song from Playboi Carti's recent album, marking the live debut of the track. Following that, he traversed through a carefully curated setlist filled with collaborations, including appearances by Lil Uzi Vert and Future. His mixture of unreleased tracks with crowd favorites set the stage for an unpredictable evening.
Of particular note were two tracks, "Oh Jacques" and "She Going Dumb," which were played in quick succession after the opening song. The former nods to Scott's real name and personal experiences, suggesting a deeper introspective direction.
“Watching Travis unveil his artistry in real-time is a privilege. This isn’t just music; it’s a glimpse into his evolution,” shared music critic Sasha L. from Pitchfork.
Scott's ability to push the boundaries of his music was further enhanced by the backdrop, where the message "NEW SHITTTTT" was boldly displayed, reaffirming his commitment to continual growth and the thrill of live performances.
One of the highlights was the mash-up of Scott's "Modern Jam" with Drake's recent hit "Nokia." As the beat transitioned, the crowd erupted. The mixture of their sounds not only highlighted their shared musical synergy but also created a fresh experience, illustrating Scott's knack for seamless integration.
This choice of mixing tracks also taps into a growing trend within the music industry, where artists continually explore cross-genre collaborations to produce innovative soundscapes.
The setlist was nothing short of ambitious, spanning 29 songs that included early hits like "SICKO MODE" and "TELEKENESIS," as well as new material.
Here's a curated list of notable tracks performed:
Scott’s willingness to debut new material while seamlessly integrating fan favorites reveals a bold strategy—one that both excites and intrigues the audience.
The reception was a mix of applause and critique. Some fans heralded the performance as a transformative moment for live hip-hop, while others felt frustrated by the late start, a common issue at large music festivals. Facilities, smoke effects, and large visuals have become integral in today's live performances; however, they can also complicate visibility, leading some concert-goers to express dissatisfaction over the setup.
Feedback streamed in across social media platforms, with enthusiasts sharing clips and personal reviews that reflected the overall sentiment of chaos paired with creativity.
This performance isn't just a return; it symbolizes a potential reimagining of Scott's public persona following a tumultuous few years. From his headlining at Astroworld in 2021 to his absence from the spotlight, the stakes were high. Coachella could signify a fresh start—a chance for Scott to reclaim his space in mainstream music, and to redefine how he relates to fans.
Label executives and industry experts are watching closely to see how his next moves pan out, as they could influence not just his music but also broader trends within the genre.
Travis Scott's Coachella 2025 performance was an audacious blend of new and familiar, embodying the spirit of an artist who continues to evolve. By including new music, innovative collaborations, and immersive experiences, Scott reestablishes himself as a pivotal figure in the music industry. His next steps remain to be seen, but one fact is clear: the Coachella stage is once again his playground, and fans are eager to join him on this journey.
This fresh chapter in Scott's career aligns with a revitalized approach to artistry, indicating a promising trajectory filled with creative potential and audience engagement.