This archived article was originally posted on Rabbit Hole Magazine in July 2016

5 Acts to Get There Early For: Lollapalooza 2016

Some of you may remember Lollapalooza 2007, when a singer-songwriter from New York played her first Lollapalooza set…an early afternoon slot at the BMI Stage. That song-writer is now known to the entire world as popstar Lady Gaga. Every year, Lolla organizers do a great job of showcasing some of the best up and coming acts that have the potential to become the world’s next star. If you want to have some “I saw them way back when” bragging rights, here are some acts to get there early for during Lolla 2016!

Kiiara

In July 2015, I was listening to Beats1, when I first heard “Gold” by Kiiara (shout out to Zane Lowe for playing the tune).  With its hypnotizing beat and Kiiara’s silky smooth falsetto, the song immediately became my next “play on repeat for 3 days straight” song, and I’ve been eagerly consuming everything that the 21 year old singer from Oak Lawn, IL has released since then.  Her six-song debut EP low kii savage dropped earlier this year, which also contains the single “Feels.” Lollapalooza is Kiiara’s festival debut, so make sure you check her out! If you miss her set, she’s playing an aftershow at Schubas on Friday night.  

Catch Kiiara on Friday, July 29th, 2:50-3:30 PM on the Pepsi Stage.

For Fans of: BANKS, AlunaGeorge, Verite

Songs to start with:  “Gold” and “Intention”  

Lapsley

19 year old Holly Lapsley Fletcher, better known by her stage name of Lapsley, has been turning heads since she released her debut EP Monday on Soundcloud back in 2013.  With her impressive vocal range and unique and developed style of production, as well as her extensive resume of festivals and gigs performed, it’s hard to believe that Lapsley is still a teenager. The English songwriter released her debut album Long Way Home in March of 2016, and the record features a great mix of genre-bending tunes. She’s also hilarious, so make sure you catch her set from some bonus laughs between songs!

Watch Lapsley on Sunday, July 31st, 12:45-1:30PM on the Samsung Stage.

For Fans of:  James Blake, Jack Garratt, Shura

Songs to start with:  “Cliff” and “Operator”    

Haelos

When we last caught up with the British electronic trio, they were playing their first show in Chicago at The Empty Bottle, as part of their first American tour.  The tour was in support of their hauntingly beautiful debut record Full Circle, which features singles “Dust” and “Separate Lives.” Since then, the band has moved on to play other massive festivals like Coachella and Glastonbury, and they’re sure to also smash their Chicago festival debut.  They’re also playing at the legendary Double Door with another on-the-rise British act, Jack Garratt, as part of Lollapalooza’s official after shows. You can still grab tickets here.

Catch Haelos on Friday, July 29th, 12-12:45PM on the Petrillo Bandshell Stage.

For Fans of: The XX, Wet, Broods

Songs to start with:  “Dust” and “Pray”

Frances

Another gem from the UK, Sophie Frances Cooke, best known as Frances, creates a beautiful blend of folk and pop with her powerful voice and pretty piano melodies.  In 2015, the singer songwriter released two EPs, Grow and Let it Out, and this year we’ve heard new singles “Don’t Worry About Me” and “Say It Again.”  Frances has supported James Bay on tour around the U.S and the U.K, and it’s only a matter of time before she’s selling out her own headline tour!

Catch Frances on Thursday, July 28th, 1-2PM on the Bud Light Stage

For Fans of: James Bay, Aurora, Oh Wonder

Songs to start with:  “Say it Again” and “Grow”

Jarryd James

Hailing from Brisbane, this Aussie singer-songwriter blends his soulful R&B voice with catchy electronic beats.   James has supported artists like Meg Myers and Broods, and his latest release, “1000x,” is actually a collaboration with Broods.  His debut album, High, comes out July 29th- just in time for Lollapalooza weekend! If you want some music that will get you warmed up for day 3 of Lolla, make sure you watch Jarryd’s set.  

Catch Jarryd on Saturday, July 30th, 12-1PM at the Petrillo Bandshell Stage

For Fans of: Troye Sivan, Chet Faker, Gallant

Songs to start with:  “Do You Remember” and “1000x”