Coachella being one of the most highly awaited musical festivals in the world. It just suffered its first major setback, as two of the most popular artists in the world, Rihanna and Kendrick Lamar, have declined invitations to headline the 2025 version. This will leave many fans in a state of distress, and it opens up rumors of who their replacements could be.
The reason Kendrick Lamar skipped the Coachella performance was because of his busy schedule in 2025. In 2025, he is supposed to do his performance at the Super Bowl halftime and also will perform on a big stadium tour. Therefore, this means that he can hardly fit in a performance at Coachella. Lamar has done this before; in 2017, he headlined the event. Still, his commitments mean that fans would have to wait for another opportunity to see the great performer on the Coachella stage.
Although fans have been expecting her to release some new music, it seems that Rihanna has other priorities, considering that she is creating a business empire. Her interest in Fenty Beauty, among other endeavors, has made her turn down the opportunity to headline at Coachella. The fact that one will be exposed and earn some cash through a performance at Coachella did not seem to be enough to weigh her down from making such a decision.
News of Lamar and Rihanna’s decisions spread through social media, and the fans are expressing disappointment. Indeed, many had hoped the two superstars would bring their customary vigor to the festival and make it a major talking point at next year’s event in 2025.
The headliners off the bill, speculation about who might replace them only mounts. One name being very heavily floated: K-pop star Lisa of BLACKPINK. If a choice, it would be monumental solo debut as a Coachella headliner. Other headliner options could be Dua Lipa, Olivia Rodrigo, or even a reunion of British rock band Oasis.
Coachella 2025 will take over two weekends: the first weekend includes the dates of April 11-13, whereas April 18-20 falls in the second weekend of 2025. It is going to be a really diversified festival where artists from all kinds of genres participate, and it will attract music lovers, influencers, and celebrities around the world.
