It's almost that time of year! The 2015 installment of the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival takes place very soon. While this year's lineup doesn't have the power of a classic Paul McCartney set or the controversy of a Kanye West set, it's still going to be a good one. Unfortunately, I won't be able to go this year due to family commitments, but I'll definitely be watching the live stream.
If you plan on going, then I encourage you to follow your own path as to who you may want to see. However, if you're having trouble deciding who you want to see, this list will give you some suggestions.
Warning: Some of these sets do conflict with each other. That's why I encourage you to pick and choose for yourself. This list is merely suggestions.
If you plan on going, then I encourage you to follow your own path as to who you may want to see. However, if you're having trouble deciding who you want to see, this list will give you some suggestions.
Warning: Some of these sets do conflict with each other. That's why I encourage you to pick and choose for yourself. This list is merely suggestions.
25. A Thousand Horses (Sunday, The Who Stage, 5:30 PM)
Listen here.
FOR FANS OF: Sturgill Simpson, Blackberry Smoke
A Thousand Horses are a rising country band that will be playing on the Who? Stage on Sunday afternoon. Bonnaroo always books a small number of country acts, and they're always really good. This year, Bonnaroo has also booked two personal favorites in Sturgill Simpson and Kacey Musgraves, the latter of whom will be talked about later on in this list. In the past they've gotten Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, Kris Kristofferson, Kenny Rogers, Merle Haggard, Chris Stapleton, and even Sam Hunt. If you're going to Bonnaroo and are looking for the next big thing in country, check out A Thousand Horses.
FOR FANS OF: Sturgill Simpson, Blackberry Smoke
A Thousand Horses are a rising country band that will be playing on the Who? Stage on Sunday afternoon. Bonnaroo always books a small number of country acts, and they're always really good. This year, Bonnaroo has also booked two personal favorites in Sturgill Simpson and Kacey Musgraves, the latter of whom will be talked about later on in this list. In the past they've gotten Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, Kris Kristofferson, Kenny Rogers, Merle Haggard, Chris Stapleton, and even Sam Hunt. If you're going to Bonnaroo and are looking for the next big thing in country, check out A Thousand Horses.
24. Billy Joel (Sunday, What Stage, 9:00 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Elton John
Topping this year's Bonnaroo lineup is none other than the Piano Man himself. While I'm not a huge fan of Billy Joel, there's no reason or excuse not to catch the very last act of the festival, especially because there is nobody else playing at that time. He may not have the star power of Elton John, but hits like "Uptown Girl", "Piano Man", "We Didn't Start the Fire", and "Just the Way You Are" are sure to incite a few sing-alongs.
Topping this year's Bonnaroo lineup is none other than the Piano Man himself. While I'm not a huge fan of Billy Joel, there's no reason or excuse not to catch the very last act of the festival, especially because there is nobody else playing at that time. He may not have the star power of Elton John, but hits like "Uptown Girl", "Piano Man", "We Didn't Start the Fire", and "Just the Way You Are" are sure to incite a few sing-alongs.
23. Tove Lo (Thursday, That Tent, 10:30 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Ellie Goulding, Lorde
Last year, Swedish singer-songwriter Tove Lo stole our hearts with the epic breakup anthem "Habits (Stay High)", and this year, she's out to woo even more people with a US tour that includes a string of festivals, one of which is Bonnaroo. With a new single called "Talking Body" that's also doing well on the charts, Tove Lo has everything going for her this year, and I'm happy to see her gain popularity.
Last year, Swedish singer-songwriter Tove Lo stole our hearts with the epic breakup anthem "Habits (Stay High)", and this year, she's out to woo even more people with a US tour that includes a string of festivals, one of which is Bonnaroo. With a new single called "Talking Body" that's also doing well on the charts, Tove Lo has everything going for her this year, and I'm happy to see her gain popularity.
22. Kendrick Lamar (Friday, What Stage, 9:45 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Snoop Dogg, J Cole
Kendrick Lamar released the best hip-hop album of the decade with To Pimp A Butterfly, and while there are reports that he's not playing much from Butterfly live, his set is sure to be fire. I guess the only reason he's not higher is because he's not playing much from his new album. Still, King Kendrick is easily one of the best rappers of the current generation, and in my opinion, he's one of the best artists of this generation. Make an effort to get to the What Stage and see K.Dot slay.
Kendrick Lamar released the best hip-hop album of the decade with To Pimp A Butterfly, and while there are reports that he's not playing much from Butterfly live, his set is sure to be fire. I guess the only reason he's not higher is because he's not playing much from his new album. Still, King Kendrick is easily one of the best rappers of the current generation, and in my opinion, he's one of the best artists of this generation. Make an effort to get to the What Stage and see K.Dot slay.
21. Atomic Bomb! Who Is William Onyeabor? (Saturday, That Tent, 8:15 PM)
FOR FANS OF: World music, particularly afrobeat music
Atomic Bomb! is a traveling supergroup that pays tribute to mysterious Nigerian funk musician William Onyeabor. While the lineup varies from city to city, the group has sometimes featured David Byrne and Damon Albarn. At the group's only US Festival appearance so far, the lineup will feature Jamie Lidell, Luke Jenner, Pat Mahoney (LCD Soundsystem), Money Mark (the Beastie Boys), and the band Sinkane.
Atomic Bomb! is a traveling supergroup that pays tribute to mysterious Nigerian funk musician William Onyeabor. While the lineup varies from city to city, the group has sometimes featured David Byrne and Damon Albarn. At the group's only US Festival appearance so far, the lineup will feature Jamie Lidell, Luke Jenner, Pat Mahoney (LCD Soundsystem), Money Mark (the Beastie Boys), and the band Sinkane.
20. Jamie xx (Saturday, The Other Tent, 6:00 PM)
FOR FANS OF: The xx, Burial, minimalist EDM
The main beatmaster behind The xx's music is only doing a few US festival dates this year, one of which will be at Bonnaroo (he'll also be doing Pitchfork this year if you can't catch him at 'Roo). His new album In Colour just received a coveted 9.3 from Pitchfork magazine, and from having listened to the album myself, I'd say he deserves that score. His set is for sure going to be a chilled-out late-afternoon rave on Saturday.
The main beatmaster behind The xx's music is only doing a few US festival dates this year, one of which will be at Bonnaroo (he'll also be doing Pitchfork this year if you can't catch him at 'Roo). His new album In Colour just received a coveted 9.3 from Pitchfork magazine, and from having listened to the album myself, I'd say he deserves that score. His set is for sure going to be a chilled-out late-afternoon rave on Saturday.
19. Deadmau5 (Friday, What Stage, midnight)
FOR FANS OF: Kaskade, early Tiesto
Deadmau5 will be the first major electronic music act to perform on the huge Bonnaroo What Stage in the festival's 14-year history. Bonnaroo has had DJs on the What Stage in the past, but they've mostly been relegated to playing in between acts that were setting up for their performance. Deadmau5 will basically be the first producer to get his own time slot on the main stage. With reports coming that he is bringing a $6 million show to Bonnaroo and Governors Ball, his midnight set is sure to mesmerize and get you dancing until the sun comes up.
Deadmau5 will be the first major electronic music act to perform on the huge Bonnaroo What Stage in the festival's 14-year history. Bonnaroo has had DJs on the What Stage in the past, but they've mostly been relegated to playing in between acts that were setting up for their performance. Deadmau5 will basically be the first producer to get his own time slot on the main stage. With reports coming that he is bringing a $6 million show to Bonnaroo and Governors Ball, his midnight set is sure to mesmerize and get you dancing until the sun comes up.
18. Unlocking the Truth (Thursday, This Tent, 5:45 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Shadows Fall, Slayer, Between the Buried and Me
The very last act on Bonnaroo's initial lineup (before the additions were announced) is a metal band from Brooklyn comprised of three 8th graders. When they open up the festival on Thursday afternoon, they will be the youngest act to ever play Bonnaroo. Having already played Coachella, done a televised performance on the Colbert Report, and gained a small but devoted following, they're sure to be an explosive start to the festival. Even if you don't like metal, give these youngsters a chance.
The very last act on Bonnaroo's initial lineup (before the additions were announced) is a metal band from Brooklyn comprised of three 8th graders. When they open up the festival on Thursday afternoon, they will be the youngest act to ever play Bonnaroo. Having already played Coachella, done a televised performance on the Colbert Report, and gained a small but devoted following, they're sure to be an explosive start to the festival. Even if you don't like metal, give these youngsters a chance.
17. Courtney Barnett (Thursday, This Tent, 10:45 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Nirvana, Lou Reed
Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett made 2015's smartest album with Sometimes I Sit and Think, Sometimes I Just Sit. I had the opportunity to see her last year at Firefly long before her debut was released, and while I loved her music and her performance, I was pleasantly surprised to see her gain such a big following so quickly. If Tove Lo isn't your cup of tea, Courtney Barnett is definitely for you.
Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett made 2015's smartest album with Sometimes I Sit and Think, Sometimes I Just Sit. I had the opportunity to see her last year at Firefly long before her debut was released, and while I loved her music and her performance, I was pleasantly surprised to see her gain such a big following so quickly. If Tove Lo isn't your cup of tea, Courtney Barnett is definitely for you.
16. Iceage (Thursday, This Tent, 8:15 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Joy Division, Nick Cave
Danish post-punk outfit Iceage are touring behind the release of their 2014 critically-acclaimed album Plowing Into the Field of Love, and if I were going to Bonnaroo this year, then their set would definitely be a can't-miss for me. Not only are they touring behind a great album, but so far, Bonnaroo is one of only TWO major U.S. festival dates the band is doing this year (the other being Pitchfork in Chicago). If you want some great post-punk, then this may be your last chance to catch this group for a while!
Danish post-punk outfit Iceage are touring behind the release of their 2014 critically-acclaimed album Plowing Into the Field of Love, and if I were going to Bonnaroo this year, then their set would definitely be a can't-miss for me. Not only are they touring behind a great album, but so far, Bonnaroo is one of only TWO major U.S. festival dates the band is doing this year (the other being Pitchfork in Chicago). If you want some great post-punk, then this may be your last chance to catch this group for a while!
15. Freddie Gibbs & Madlib (Sunday, The Other Tent, 5:45 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Nas, Tupac Shakur
Gangsta Gibbs and Madlib teamed up to produce last year's best hip-hop album, Pinata. Full of vivid imagery by Gibbs and jazzy beats by Madlib, it could even be considered one of the best of the decade so far. But I digress. Roo did a great job booking this duo, and I think the two of them are going to have people losing their minds. Like Iceage, this duo is only performing together at Bonnaroo and Pitchfork as far as U.S. festivals are concerned. You'll get to see them both on their own at some other time, but if you want to see them together, then Roo is the best time to do so.
Gangsta Gibbs and Madlib teamed up to produce last year's best hip-hop album, Pinata. Full of vivid imagery by Gibbs and jazzy beats by Madlib, it could even be considered one of the best of the decade so far. But I digress. Roo did a great job booking this duo, and I think the two of them are going to have people losing their minds. Like Iceage, this duo is only performing together at Bonnaroo and Pitchfork as far as U.S. festivals are concerned. You'll get to see them both on their own at some other time, but if you want to see them together, then Roo is the best time to do so.
14. Slayer (Saturday, This Tent, 10:00 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Metallica, Megadeth, Anthrax
Since Tool's headlining set in 2007, Bonnaroo has always gotten the best metal bands to make the lineup a little bit heavier. Just look at last year's metal trifecta of Mastodon, Meshuggah, and Deafheaven. This year, Slayer is bringing their intense thrash metal to the Farm for what's sure to be one of the most chaotic sets of the festival.
Since Tool's headlining set in 2007, Bonnaroo has always gotten the best metal bands to make the lineup a little bit heavier. Just look at last year's metal trifecta of Mastodon, Meshuggah, and Deafheaven. This year, Slayer is bringing their intense thrash metal to the Farm for what's sure to be one of the most chaotic sets of the festival.
13. Tears For Fears (Friday, This Tent, 8:45 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Duran Duran, Depeche Mode
One of this year's biggest surprises was seeing Tears For Fears on the lineup, but then again, Roo has a knack for these kinds of bookings (see: Ice Cube in 2014 and Billy Idol in 2013). Though their biggest hits were 30 years ago, "Shout" and "Everybody Wants To Rule the World" still hold up very well today, the latter notably being covered by Lorde for the Hunger Games: Catching Fire soundtrack. Not to mention that there have been a gazillion covers of "Mad World". If you catch their set, chances are you'll hear a song or two you recognize.
One of this year's biggest surprises was seeing Tears For Fears on the lineup, but then again, Roo has a knack for these kinds of bookings (see: Ice Cube in 2014 and Billy Idol in 2013). Though their biggest hits were 30 years ago, "Shout" and "Everybody Wants To Rule the World" still hold up very well today, the latter notably being covered by Lorde for the Hunger Games: Catching Fire soundtrack. Not to mention that there have been a gazillion covers of "Mad World". If you catch their set, chances are you'll hear a song or two you recognize.
12. Mumford & Sons (Saturday, What Stage, 11:00 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Coldplay and U2 For their newer stuff; Trampled By Turtles and Dawes for the older material
Yes, I'm aware that Wilder Mind got mixed reviews. I enjoyed the album quite a bit, though I do wish there was more variety. Anyway, critical derision aside, the Mumfords' booking was a huge get for Bonnaroo, in part because of their cancellation in 2013, and because I also have heard very few negative reviews about their live shows. These guys know how to work a crowd, and if you don't believe me, check out the clip above from their last appearance on the Farm in 2011. They're a band that seems to be much better as performers than as musicians and songwriters. It'd be cool to get the best of both worlds with them, but I love live shows, so I can dig it.
Yes, I'm aware that Wilder Mind got mixed reviews. I enjoyed the album quite a bit, though I do wish there was more variety. Anyway, critical derision aside, the Mumfords' booking was a huge get for Bonnaroo, in part because of their cancellation in 2013, and because I also have heard very few negative reviews about their live shows. These guys know how to work a crowd, and if you don't believe me, check out the clip above from their last appearance on the Farm in 2011. They're a band that seems to be much better as performers than as musicians and songwriters. It'd be cool to get the best of both worlds with them, but I love live shows, so I can dig it.
11. Kacey Musgraves (Friday, That Tent, 7:15 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Miranda Lambert
Another big name in country right now, Kacey Musgraves is personally my favorite country music artist. Her 2013 album Same Trailer Different Park blew my mind in all sorts of ways, and with a new album on the way later this month, she's sure to be playing plenty of new stuff from that.
Another big name in country right now, Kacey Musgraves is personally my favorite country music artist. Her 2013 album Same Trailer Different Park blew my mind in all sorts of ways, and with a new album on the way later this month, she's sure to be playing plenty of new stuff from that.
10. D'Angelo & the Vanguard (Saturday, This Tent, 1:00 AM)
Listen here.
FOR FANS OF: Blues, R&B
Strangely enough, D'Angelo's first US appearance in a while was at the Questlove-led Bonnaroo Superjam in 2012, and now he's coming back to the Farm for a full 90-minute set. His 2014 album Black Messiah was undoubtedly one of the best of last year. No matter what music you're a fan of, this set will surely be one to remember and talk about on the way back home from the festival.
FOR FANS OF: Blues, R&B
Strangely enough, D'Angelo's first US appearance in a while was at the Questlove-led Bonnaroo Superjam in 2012, and now he's coming back to the Farm for a full 90-minute set. His 2014 album Black Messiah was undoubtedly one of the best of last year. No matter what music you're a fan of, this set will surely be one to remember and talk about on the way back home from the festival.
9. Flying Lotus (Friday, The Other Tent, 1:30 AM)
FOR FANS OF: J Dilla, Nujabes
Flying Lotus has made some incredible albums with jazz/hip-hop/electronic fusions, such as 2010's Cosmogramma and more recently 2014's You're Dead!. This year, he's touring again, and from photos I've seen of his live sets at Coachella, he's really amped up his live game with some insane new visuals. Not to mention he's real tight with Kendrick Lamar. Possible guest appearance?
Flying Lotus has made some incredible albums with jazz/hip-hop/electronic fusions, such as 2010's Cosmogramma and more recently 2014's You're Dead!. This year, he's touring again, and from photos I've seen of his live sets at Coachella, he's really amped up his live game with some insane new visuals. Not to mention he's real tight with Kendrick Lamar. Possible guest appearance?
8. STS9 (Friday, That Tent, 2:00 AM)
FOR FANS OF: Umphrey's McGee, The Disco Biscuits
Sound Tribe Sector 9 (or STS9, for short) are a sort of Bonnaroo favorite. They haven't played the Farm since 2011, so an appearance in 2015 almost seemed overdue. Regardless, STS9 is sure to put on an exciting live electronic show. Bands like Umphrey's McGee and STS9 also love to play their sets until the sun comes up, so if you're a night owl, then this set is definitely for you.
Sound Tribe Sector 9 (or STS9, for short) are a sort of Bonnaroo favorite. They haven't played the Farm since 2011, so an appearance in 2015 almost seemed overdue. Regardless, STS9 is sure to put on an exciting live electronic show. Bands like Umphrey's McGee and STS9 also love to play their sets until the sun comes up, so if you're a night owl, then this set is definitely for you.
7. Robert Plant & the Sensational Space Shifters (Sunday, Which Stage, 7:45 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Led Zeppelin, duh
Face it, we're not getting a Led Zeppelin reunion. Jason Bonham himself has even stated that a reunion of the original Guns N Roses lineup is more likely (please, Axl and Slash?). At this point, most of you will have had a few opportunities to see at least one member of Led Zeppelin live and in the flesh. I got to see John Paul Jones last year with Seasick Steve, and this year, Led Zep's iconic frontman returns to the farm for the third time with a new band. He doesn't sing many songs from his old band live anymore, but he has quite a good solo catalogue that I encourage you to check out.
Face it, we're not getting a Led Zeppelin reunion. Jason Bonham himself has even stated that a reunion of the original Guns N Roses lineup is more likely (please, Axl and Slash?). At this point, most of you will have had a few opportunities to see at least one member of Led Zeppelin live and in the flesh. I got to see John Paul Jones last year with Seasick Steve, and this year, Led Zep's iconic frontman returns to the farm for the third time with a new band. He doesn't sing many songs from his old band live anymore, but he has quite a good solo catalogue that I encourage you to check out.
6. Florence + the Machine (Sunday, What Stage, 7:00 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Kate Bush, Marina and the Diamonds
Florence + the Machine are a band that I've been dying to see live for at least two years now. I first listened to their music while I was a DJ at WASU, and "Shake It Out" would often come on while I was doing my shifts. I fell in love with the music and decided to look up some more of their songs. When I'd heard that a new album was officially announced for 2015, I was beyond ecstatic. When I heard that she broke her foot running around at her Coachella performance earlier this year, I was a little bummed. According to Florence, expect a more stripped-down set from what she normally does. This is the act that makes me really kinda sad that I can't go just because it's another few years that I have to put off getting to see her live.
Florence + the Machine are a band that I've been dying to see live for at least two years now. I first listened to their music while I was a DJ at WASU, and "Shake It Out" would often come on while I was doing my shifts. I fell in love with the music and decided to look up some more of their songs. When I'd heard that a new album was officially announced for 2015, I was beyond ecstatic. When I heard that she broke her foot running around at her Coachella performance earlier this year, I was a little bummed. According to Florence, expect a more stripped-down set from what she normally does. This is the act that makes me really kinda sad that I can't go just because it's another few years that I have to put off getting to see her live.
5. My Morning Jacket (Saturday, What Stage, 8:00 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Wilco
My Morning Jacket are practically Bonnaroo's house band. People have been begging for Jim James and co. to come back to the festival for a couple of years now, and while I'm sure everyone's wishes were briefly satisfied in 2013 when Jim James performed solo, the full band is back this year for a two-hour slot right before Mumford & Sons takes the stage for their headlining set. If you're a fan of Wilco or other alt-country bands, then My Morning Jacket is for you.
My Morning Jacket are practically Bonnaroo's house band. People have been begging for Jim James and co. to come back to the festival for a couple of years now, and while I'm sure everyone's wishes were briefly satisfied in 2013 when Jim James performed solo, the full band is back this year for a two-hour slot right before Mumford & Sons takes the stage for their headlining set. If you're a fan of Wilco or other alt-country bands, then My Morning Jacket is for you.
4. Run the Jewels (Friday, This Tent, 11:15 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Killer Mike, Public Enemy, N.W.A.
The duo of Killer Mike and El-P is one of the deadliest combos in hip-hop. Not even the impeccable matching of Freddie Gibbs & Madlib can beat just how hyped up this set will be. Anyone who watched the live stream of their Coachella performance knows that it'll get rowdy. The two MCs are revolutionizing hardcore hip-hop and putting a strong message behind it, making them one of the decade's finest duos. But if you don't want to catch them...
The duo of Killer Mike and El-P is one of the deadliest combos in hip-hop. Not even the impeccable matching of Freddie Gibbs & Madlib can beat just how hyped up this set will be. Anyone who watched the live stream of their Coachella performance knows that it'll get rowdy. The two MCs are revolutionizing hardcore hip-hop and putting a strong message behind it, making them one of the decade's finest duos. But if you don't want to catch them...
3. Earth Wind & Fire (Friday, Which Stage, 11:30 PM)
FOR FANS OF: Stevie Wonder
Is there anything that really needs to be said? Earth Wind & Fire have been popular for over 40 years now. Their songs are timeless, their lives shows are electric, and they're sure to keep you boogie-ing all night long. If you think Run the Jewels is a bit too much for you, then EWF is right up your alley.
Is there anything that really needs to be said? Earth Wind & Fire have been popular for over 40 years now. Their songs are timeless, their lives shows are electric, and they're sure to keep you boogie-ing all night long. If you think Run the Jewels is a bit too much for you, then EWF is right up your alley.
2. Songhoy Blues (Saturday, Which Stage, 2:15 PM)
FOR FANS OF: The Black Keys, White Denim
Songhoy Blues symbolize everything that I love about Bonnaroo. For those unaware, Songhoy Blues are a Malian rock band who escaped Mali after religious extremists outlawed "western music" in their country. They basically formed the band in protest, risking their lives to be able to play the music they wanted to. If that's not admirable, then I don't know what is. Imagine if the music you loved was outlawed under penalty of death. These young men protested that, saying that the people should be allowed to listen and play any type of music freely. Seriously, give them a listen and go check out their set.
Songhoy Blues symbolize everything that I love about Bonnaroo. For those unaware, Songhoy Blues are a Malian rock band who escaped Mali after religious extremists outlawed "western music" in their country. They basically formed the band in protest, risking their lives to be able to play the music they wanted to. If that's not admirable, then I don't know what is. Imagine if the music you loved was outlawed under penalty of death. These young men protested that, saying that the people should be allowed to listen and play any type of music freely. Seriously, give them a listen and go check out their set.
1. Throwback Superjam Dance Party (Saturday, The Other Tent, 1:30 AM)
The Superjam is one of the events that defined Bonnaroo and really set it apart from the other festivals. Last year's Superjam was led by Skrillex and featured guests Big Gigantic, Zedd, Robby Krieger (The Doors), Mickey Hart (the Grateful Dead), Janelle Monae, and even an appearance from Mystikal. Another Superjam last year was led by Derek Trucks and featured Chaka Khan, Taj Mahal, Ben Folds, Andrew Bird, and many others. Take a look at past Superjams to see what guests have been featured as well as setlists. Having attended last year's Skrillex-led Superjam, I can tell you firsthand that it'll be one big party.
This year's Superjam will feature Pretty Lights, Darryl McDaniels of Run DMC, Rob Trujillo of Metallica, Jack Antonoff of Bleachers, and many more. Look at it this way: This will be the only time you'll ever get to see such a collaboration. So yeah, definitely go check out the superjam.
This year's Superjam will feature Pretty Lights, Darryl McDaniels of Run DMC, Rob Trujillo of Metallica, Jack Antonoff of Bleachers, and many more. Look at it this way: This will be the only time you'll ever get to see such a collaboration. So yeah, definitely go check out the superjam.