Written by Sason Bishope Parry
Photos: Courtesy of Alive Coverage, Sharina Solares & Zeus Reed
San Francisco’s premiere destination music festival, Outside Lands, kicked off a sold-out weekend on a high note. From August 11 through 13th, close to 250,000 fans came together from all over the world for three days of music, love, and to forge long-lasting memories. Now in its 15th edition, the festival seems to have hit its stride and is one of the most packed years in its entire history. Organizers have had fifteen years to work out the bugs and learn the ins and outs of beautiful Golden Gate Park to elevate the festival experience in all areas. It’s a colossal undertaking organizing a festival of this magnitude, but producers Another Planet Entertainment, Superfly Presents, and Starr Hill Presents make it seem effortless. Everything seemed improved and supercharged, from the ease of entry points to security and production. It’s a nice feeling when you’re a veteran festival goer, and you know where almost everything is located, as Outside Lands has its signature attractions that return each year. But when you think you know everything about Golden Gate Park and Outside Lands, you realize or discover a new area, and boom, it’s like a little kid opening a new gift on Christmas. Organizers made that apparent this year with new additions like the exciting open-air dance club in the Polo Field, “Dolores,” celebrating the diversity of San Francisco and the LGBTQ community. Dolores featured some extraordinary performers and fantastic DJ sets curated by Fake and Gay, Oasis, and Hard French. Dolores was jam-packed all weekend and proved to be a great addition to an already incredible festival.
Given that the festival was sold out seemed to bring a new peaceful vibe to organizers, production crew, and staff. Everyone seemed so happy and eager to help and ensure that fans had the most memorable experience. Not having to worry about ticket sales and knowing all the years of building and maturing the festival are paying off is a rewarding feeling. This allows organizers to pay more attention to fine details to ensure each area, stage, and attraction is much better for the tens of thousands of fans in attendance. But with a more significant attendance and organizers working overtime to ensure all goes smoothly, challenges still happen. Like the over-packed SOMA tent that had to be closed a few times before organizers re-envisioned it as an outdoor dance space. Or the bathrooms, which, no matter how many GA porta-potties are available, the lines are still long as heck, especially late in the afternoons or evenings. Unless you’re one of the lucky high rollers who could afford VIPs or Platinum tickets, then you had the convenience of the ultra-enhanced bathroom and viewing areas. Still, as I cruised around the park and explored, I still got the feeling most areas were much smoother than in past years, even given the enormous crowd size.
I even got to stand on the side of the Land’s End stage at one point and just take in the majestic scenery. Wow, just looking at the beautiful giant trees surrounding the Polo fields’ perimeter was epic and so surreal. It gave me a chance to see just how big and wonderful Golden Gate Park is and Outside Lands from a venue perspective. When you’re lost in music or the chaos of running between stages and crowds, it’s hard to take in just how special the park and this festival are to San Francisco. Or what it’s grown to become in its fifteen years of existence. San Francisco has always been an epicenter for music, fashion, and culture going back fifty years to the summer of love days. Somehow Outside Lands has done a fantastic job of bringing back that peace and love spirit but still has remained current with all the new genres of music and culture. As I gazed from the top of the hillside, I could see the massive diversity of fans that were in attendance. Festivals goers from all walks of life, fashion styles, ethnicities, and musical tastes just soak up the good peaceful vibes in the same spirit of the summer of love days. The one thing I have always loved about music festivals beyond the music is their ability to unite so many different types of people in peace. A weekend where you can be void of the chaos and rat race of the outside world, which is not always lovely or peaceful, and just lose yourself in the experience. Now that I’m done with my hippie, transcendental positive aura vibes, ha-ha, let’s get to the music and all the amazing things I experienced this year!
The weather was warm but hit or miss on sunshine each day until Sunday, which brought lots of sunny vibes and suntan lotion. That’s typical San Francisco weather that’s unpredictable at times, so it’s always good to be ready for both hot and cold weather. The windy breeze, however, still felt great, even without the sun’s blessing at times. The good vibrations flowed as fans poured in from all sides of the park. I noticed massive lines at many of the entrances each day. However, there seemed to be no commotion, bad vibes, or impatience from fans, as security was doing a fantastic job of getting everyone checked and in fast. Once inside, there was so much to do and experience, that you almost didn’t know where to start. I noticed that many had downloaded the Outside Lands app, and those I spoke to seemed to have their days planned out. Then there were the spontaneous fans who told me they were just going with the flow and preferred to be free and not be stuck to any schedule.
I also noticed how many people were in attendance early in the day. I had never seen that many fans packed in to see opening acts. Usually, acts that go on at NOON or 1 PM have a small and intimate crowd, even at the big stages, but not this year. Thousands were packed into the Polo Fields and other stages when doors opened, which was great to see for some of the smaller acts. I have noticed that this is starting to become a trend, where fans get to shows and festivals earlier and leave later to soak in and enjoy every minute. Covid robbed us of the ability to socialize and see live shows for a few years, something we all took for granted. Now that the pandemic is behind us, it taught us to be more grateful and really appreciate our love for public events and live music, and I hope that attitude of gratitude continues.
MUSICAL HIGHLIGHTS OVER THE WEEKEND – IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER
CRUMB
Outside Lands is never short on bands to give homage to San Francisco’s long-time history of psychedelic pop music. One of those gems was Brooklyn-based band Crumb, who performed on Friday afternoon at the Sutro stage. They took us on an incredible ride with their creative blend of synths, guitar soundscapes, horns, and captivating melodies. Their music defies boundaries, part dream pop, part indie rock with some psychedelic elements all blended up to pure bliss. Their performance was nothing short of spellbinding, winning over new and seasoned fans who packed in to catch a glimpse. This was my first time seeing them live, and they turned out to be one of the best of the weekend!
J.I.D.
J.I.D hit the Land’s End stage Friday after an announcement from this DJ calling him Hip Hop’s new heavyweight. Destin Choice Route, known to fans as J.I.D., looked great, sporting some cool shades and short braids. Giant jumbotrons donned his image to eager fans. “I’m just here to do some raps. That’s it. It’s extra special to me since it’s Hip Hop’s 50th birthday.” Yelled J.I.D. And rap he did, as he cut loose with his quick flow delivering great performances throughout his set with tracks like “Galaxy” and “Working Out.” He was quick to introduce his band and praise their talents as they did Hip Hop’s big day justice. He commanded the stage with the presence of an old veteran as fans continued to pour into the Land Ends field.
JANELLE MONAE
There are Divas, and then there is the fabulous Janelle Monae. Every decade or so, we are blessed with an artist who exudes pure talent, on the likes of James Brown and Prince. Her stage production was over the top complete with giant beach balls and a wall of sound. With a phenomenal band, especially the all-female horn section, her Friday early eve set on the Land End’s stage was pure eye candy. She took the stage with so much sexual charisma she was giving Beyonce a run for her money. It was pure woman empowerment as she sang songs from her new album, The Age of Pleasure.” Songs like “Champagne shit” got the party started as she toasted the crowd multiple times, downing a few glasses of bubbly. Then she roared through a set that was pure energy, that included beautiful sexy dancers in matching body suits and extraordinary renditions of “Lipstick Lover” and “Waterslide.” Singing, rapping, acting, looking beautiful she’s the real deal and does it all. Def a highlight!
KENDRICK LAMAR
As SFs, fog set in, and Golden Gate Park’s beautiful grand trees that lined the perimeter of the Land’s End stage lit up in their annual psychedelic colours. Anticipation was high for what many were saying was the biggest headliner of the festival. Kendrick Lamar was a massive booking for organizers, given that his performance aligned with the 50th-year birthday celebration of Hip Hop music. Fifty years of Hip Hop has brought us some of the biggest names, from Run-DMC and Grandmaster Flash to the Beastie Boys, NWA, Tupac, Biggie, Kanye West, and so many others, including one of Jay-Z’s proteges Kendrick Lamar. The Hip Hop superstar wasted no time lighting up the stage with grace, power, and ease, showing why he is arguably the best-flowing poet alive. With his massive music catalogue that has won the respect of fans and peers, he played an almost 2 hours set that was pure perfection. He is one of the reasons Hip Hop has remained so relevant and today is one of the most in-demand musical genres on the Planet. With no gimmicks, minimal production, and just a mic and lights, he lit up the stage with an excellent set consisting of favourites like “m.A.A.d City,” “Swimming Pools,” and “King Kunta.” A sea of fans stretching the length of the Lands End stage soaked in every minute of his powerful performance. It was pure Kendrick Lamar and nothing more, and what a way to end the 1st night of Outside Lands – August 11, 1973, to 2023 – Happy birthday, Hip Hop!
LOVEJOY
Saturday started a bit slower. One reason could be that fans were taking their time and worn out from all the excitement of day 1. As overcast skies shined down, Brighton, England’s Lovejoy, took over the Land’s End stage for an early set and delivered one of the weekend’s highlights. English bands have a certain cool mystique and aura that seems to give them an edge, and these lads brought the energy and Joy! Lead singer William Gold is the perfect lead man with good looks, who talked up a storm and brought an infectious charisma. Girls were lined up along the front barricades to get a closeup of the popular band and sing along to great songs like “Call Me” and “What You Like.”. It was the perfect way to kick off the afternoon vibes, and they are one breakout band to keep your eyes on!
JESSIE MURPH
The Twin Peaks got busy early on Saturday, given the great lineup of artists performing. By the size of the crowd, cute newcomer and Nashville native Jessie Murph clearly was a crowd favourite. Her singer-songwriter style fused with a country vibe connected with fans, and her sultry vocals cut through the field. She’s only 18 but is already proving to be a musical force. The way she interacted with fans with so much confidence, you would think she’d been doing this for years. Songs like the “Wild Ones” and “Cowboys and Angels” got fans singing along. She shouted out at one point that she was shooting a video and taught fans lyrics to sing along. “Heartbroken” brought a sombre mood and was the perfect song for a foggy afternoon. There is no question this girl can sing and has the looks and chops to back it up.
MANILA GREY
The smaller Panhandle stage is always a great place to catch possible future superstars. One popular band on Saturday afternoon was Manila Grey. The Vancouver-based R&B duo had a significant crowd already forming, so I felt we were in for a treat. I was immediately drawn into their soulful and smooth vocals over grooving dance beats. Lead singer Solivan and rapper GhostrideNeeko have such great chemistry together that you could tell they’ve been performing together for years. Probably back in their hometown of Manila, Philippines, which is where their group name gets its inspiration. Manila Grey was a favourite among Filipino fans, who came to show their support in droves. It’s clear why they were recipients of the Juno award for Breakthrough Group of the Year, as their set was an energetic mix of R&B and dance jams. Kudos to Outside Lands for bringing them out.
INTERPOL
Given all the talent playing and stages, choosing who to see at times can be challenging. However, there was no way I was going to miss New York’s Alt-rockers Interpol rocking out on the Sutro stage Friday night. I knew Fans were in for a treat as the highly acclaimed band performed arguably their best album to date, “Turn on The Bright Lights,” in its entirety. I had to scurry over, given that leaving Kendrick Lamar’s set was hard. But being an Interpol fan, I couldn’t miss this chance to hear some of my favourite tracks, “PDA,” “The New,” “Hands Away,” and “Obstacle 1,” live! What a fantastic way to celebrate their 21st anniversary surrounded by Golden Gate Park’s natural setting and a sea of diehard fans.
POOLSIDE (DJ set)
A hidden gem nestled in the heart of the festival site is the Ultra Cool Music Den by Toyota. One of my favourite places to go and chill in the shade, close my eyes, and take in some great DJ sets and eclectic music that makes you move. A big attraction for Saturday was the Los Angeles-based nu-disco chillwave band Poolside. They also played a complete set on the Lands End stage with their entire band on Sunday, which I missed but heard was terrific. At this excellent intimate stage, we were graced with a funky, fabulous DJ set by Jeffrey Paradise, one of the band’s founders. Fans were packed in deep on the grassy hillside covered by giant trees. It was one big, chill dance party lounge with amazing vibes. If you came to Outside Lands to get your groove on, Poolside kept you moving!
MAGGIE ROGERS
As the sun descended on the Lands End stage on Saturday, anticipation was building for popular singer-songwriter Maggie Rogers. There was already an ocean of fans waiting to catch her set. Watching her rocket ship climb as a shy newcomer at earlier Outside Lands to now headlining the main stage has been astounding. Organizers clearly love her and have given her a fantastic platform to shine and showcase her talents. She looked fabulous in yellow tights and a black waste wrap as she took the stage. Her vocals pack a punch for someone her size as she lit up the stage like a superstar for her 80-minute set. “Leave the Lights On” was a highlight for me and really showed off her vocal range. At times she reminded me of a young Florence and The Machine as she danced and spun around while belting out huge notes. Another highlight was “That’s Where I Am,” which was emotionally charged as fans sang along to each lyric. It was a stellar set from start to finish!
NANNA
Sometimes you stumble across an artist that just captivates you and leaves a long-lasting memory. That was the case with Icelandic singer-songwriter Nanna. Some might know her as one of the lead singers from Of Monsters and Men. One word, MAGICAL! Her vocals are mesmerizing, and the music is pure, beautiful bliss. Nanna has the ability to tug at your heartstrings and make you feel each word she sings. Songs like “Everything’s Coming Up Milhouse” and “Voyager” from her debut solo album, “How To Start A Garden,” took us on a journey of heartfelt emotions. Beautiful artsy photos of her appeared on a backlit screen, adding to the ambiance. I felt like I was transported to a beautiful hill in Iceland, and she was singing just for me. Her acoustic guitar vibe struck an excellent nerve with fans as I heard whispers of how beautiful each chord sounded. It was an intimate early-day performance and the perfect opportunity for fans to catch her up close and personal—one of my surprise, most memorable performances.
COCO AND BREEZY – SOMA TENT
The SOMA TENT has become one of the most popular areas at Outside Lands. With lines stretching all the way to the Sutro stage and hour waits. Being an extremely popular area and given this year’s enormous capacity created its challenges. The tent, unfortunately, had to get shut down a few times due to probably overcrowding. Organizers had to make quick and intelligent changes so as not to disappoint fans. They quickly moved the arena out of the tent to the front field area, creating an outdoor open-air rave party! Honestly, it seemed like a much better move, as the field area in front was ideally suited to accommodate fans. Once I finally made it through the massive crowd trying to get in, I caught the beautiful and talented DJ and producer twins Coco and Breezy. They wasted no time getting fans moving to their progressive and infectious dance grooves. Highly influenced by their family, they were also dancers for the late Prince. To say Coco and Breezy got the party started would be an understatement, as EDM fans of all ages packed into the newly envisioned outdoor SOMA area.
INHALER
By the time Dublin rockers Inhaler took the stage at the Hellman Hollow area on Sunday afternoon, the area was already packed in with eager fans. The four-piece Irish rocker’s melodies echoed across a sea of fans swaying along. Lead singer Elijah Hewson reminded me of a young Jacob Dylan with his good looks, natural charisma, and great vocal and guitar chops. The entire band seemed to mimic Hewson’s appeal as each brought their own confidence and talents to the stage. Lead guitarist Josh Jerkinson delivered no-nonsense bluesy rock riffs, while drummer Ryan McMahon and bassist Robert Keaton held their own with thunderous rhythms. A little rock trivia, Elijah Hewson is the son of U2’s superstar singer Bono. There is no question that he’s following in his great-dad’s footsteps but with his own musical style and sound. The band roared through fan favourites like “Cheer Up Baby,” “It Won’t Always Be Like This,” and “Valentine.” They slowed it up a bit with probably their biggest hit, “If You’re Gonna Break My Heart.” They were definitely a favourite with the females but held their own with anyone who was lucky enough to catch their excellent set.
LIL YACHTY
It’s hard to musically define Miles Parks Macullum professionally, known by fans as Lil Yachty. Part rapper, part rocker, part record producer, he’s doing it all. The Georgia native was even a model in Kanye West’s Yeezy fashion show. His highly anticipated set did not disappoint as he took the Land End’s stage with his full band on Sunday to a packed crowd, stretching the length of the polo field. The first half of his set was pure adrenalin and straight signature Yachty Hip Hop, with massive beats and his smooth flow to tracks like “Minnesota” and “NBAYOUNGBOAT.
He got the fans into a nonstop frenzy. Then without any notice, he left the stage. Some assumed it was over, but then he returned and kicked into a whole new rock vibe. It was like taking a trip back to the 60s when psychedelic rock, complete with eye-candy visuals, was bigger than life. Lil Yachty sounded impressive, singing through tons of cool vocal effects and, at times, tapping into a Beatlesque vibe. Fans who visited Grass Lands and loaded up on edibles and joints had their high enhanced with his incredible presence and trippy visuals. He sang songs from his critically acclaimed new rock album, “Let’s Start Here.” Then towards the end, he walked off stage again, came back, and started screaming, “Open it up,” “Open it up.” With a sea of fans, he pumped up the base so hard it could be felt on the Twin Peaks stage! Fans immediately started a mosh pit, and then, just like that, his set stopped abruptly, and it was over. Not sure if all of that was planned, but it added to his dramatic performance.
FOO FIGHTERS
Saturday night’s headliners, the one and only Foo Fighters, hit the stage to an ocean of fans ready to rock. This was their first tour without their excellent drummer, the late Taylor Hawkins, who brought so much dynamic to their live show—often trading off with Dave Grohl on vocals and drums. Grohl usually loves to talk up a storm during their sets, and I’m sure, given all the years and stories he’s backlogged, he would be a great storytelling guest at any campfire. But tonight was all about the music. One thing is for sure, in every Foo Fighters show that I’ve seen, Grohl and Company leave it all on the stage, and this was no different. Their new drummer, veteran Josh Freese, who’s played with everyone from Devo to Nine Inch Nails, held his own as they ripped through a two-hour set, which could have been easily three hours given their extensive catalogue and number of hits. There were a few surprises throughout the night, including one prank that will be talked about for years. The Foo’s started playing the love song, “Haven’t Met You Yet,” just as throwback Canadian crooner Michael Buble joined them to sing along. Dave Grohl yelled, “This badass MF – and I’m not even kidding – flew in today from Argentina to f-ing sing that song to you guys. Because there’s no such thing as taking a joke too far,” exclaimed Grohl. Then the band immediately went into a heavy and heartfelt rendition of “My Hero.” Foo Fighters treated fans to a 19-song set which they remarkably finished right at curfew. Another highlight was when Dave Grohl brought out his daughter, Violet Grohl, to join the band for a three-tune stretch of “Shame Shame,” “Show Me How,” and “The Teacher.”
They finished with one of their biggest hits, “Everlong,” as fans sang along. A few songs were, of course, dedicated to Taylor Hawkins, who will be remembered as one of the best. I missed out on seeing Lana Del Rey, who I heard at an incredible and emotionally charged set under the foggy skies at the Twin Peaks stage, but it was hard to break away with a sea of fans packed in tight, and the Foo’s kept us engaged, ending night two perfectly.
EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS OVER THE WEEKEND
FLOWER LANDS
The best part about music festivals is stumbling along many fantastic areas to explore. One inspiring area that has been treating fans to beautiful flower creation since 2017 was Flower Lands—located in the Hellman’s Hollow field next to the Panhandle stage. At any given time throughout the weekend, you would find long lines of eager fans waiting to get a custom handmade flower pin-on novelty creation. The best part is it was all FREE! I had the pleasure of speaking to the inspiring Shannon O” Leary, who took the reins this year for this special donation-only attraction. Beautiful flowers from local organic farmers and small farms from the North Bay are purchased each year then fans get to make their own boutonnieres. “Flower Lands is basically an organic FREE flower bar,” says O’Leary. Also, part of Flower Lands is their Aroma lounge, decorated by Shannon and her team of amazing volunteers and done so elegantly. Fans could walk up and take in the fantastic aromas of flowers like Tuberosa, Clary Sage, Spotted Bee Balm, and Honeysuckle Vine. Shannon’s favorite is the Tuberosa which I have to say smelled terrific. O’Leary says, “It’s like smelling a divine ocean of tranquillity.” Flower Lands really puts you in a lovely peaceful vibe that is almost meditational and healing and is a nice break away from the music. Many flowers have healing powers and have been used for centuries to help fight off various common ailments. Flowers can calm and heal, allowing us to express our deepest emotions without saying a word. It’s been told that they can boost your mood, reduce stress, help with anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve well-being. So beyond just getting a nice hand-made flower souvenir, fans also got a positive mood enhancer. The flower wall was another fantastic Art Deco site to take in and see. Fans were invited to pose in front and take selfies of this beautiful custom-crafted wall created from various flowers by the creative director Shannon and her team once again. Flower Lands has become an annual tradition in the likes of the ’60s flower children, and I’m sure it will continue to be a big attraction at Outside Lands. Beyond the festival, if you want to support their mission, you can visit the Seeds and Stones website, where donations and other ways of helping are welcomed.
For more info and to support Flower Lands:
www.seedsnstones.com/flowerlands
www.sfooutsidelands.com
LIQUID DEATH – THE OFFICIAL WATER PARTNER
The one thing that Outside Lands has always been good about is its water stations, which you can fill up for free at any time. H20, of course, is one of the most important fuels to stay hydrated. This year a new water beverage was introduced as the official water sponsor – LIQUID DEATH. You couldn’t miss their marketing, as it was everywhere with cool colorful hearse mobiles branding their official logo on the sides. It’s clear that they spent time creating their image with catchy taglines like ‘Murder Your Thirst.” Liquid Death, which started in 2019, comes in tall boy cans emblazoned with artsy skulls reminiscent of early T-shirts and tattoos from artist Ed Hardy. Promotional cans were given out for free as fans exited each evening, but inside, the flat version was sold for a whopping $6 bucks. At first glance, you would think it was an alcoholic beverage, but as field marketing director Sarah stated, “Liquid Death is a healthy, nutritional water alternative sourced from the Austrian Alps.” Flavours they had on hand ranged from flat to original sparking, and then there was the sparking chainsaw mango flavour sweetened with agave, which seemed to be a favourite. Liquid Death appears to be on a mission to become a significant player in the healthy water alternative category and, as Sarah suggested, plans to be at many more festivals, raves, and events.
www.liquiddeath.com
@liquiddeath
GRASS LANDS
Another favourite at Outside Lands for many fans each year has become Grass Lands, the first curated cannabis experience at an American music festival, and now in its 5th incarnation. Located south of the Polo Fields, those 21+ were able to celebrate and indulge in all things cannabis hassle-free. Organizers expanded the area this year to include more than 20 of the finest purveyors and over 35 different brands to create basically an adult playground. Cannabis fans packed into Grass Lands all weekend long to take a break from the chaos and get legally high in what many said was the most peaceful area of the festival. Curious first-timers strolled around to learn more about the cannabis industry and the variety of products available. The tranquil and peace-enhanced area also featured the Grass Lands stage, showcasing comedy performances, cooking demonstrations, and DJ sets all three days. Many cool food vendors were also on hand to handle all those munchies, including extra melted grilled cheese sandwiches from Total Meltdown. Unfortunately for me, they weren’t serving their vegan cheese options. Imagine being able to toke up a joint in a fully zoned smoking area in Golden Gate Park, then watch your favourite act rock out. Yup, that was the scene, and it was not a dream! If you missed it, well, there is always next year!
OTHER NOTABLE HIGHLIGHTS:
Other notable highlights throughout the weekend included the Outsider Art area presented by Monster Energy Drink, where you could watch amazing artists do live graffiti painting like Hiero Veiga (@hieroveiga). Beyond the music and art, a notable mention must go to Outside Lands wide selection of FOOD AND DRINKS. Every year organizers do a great job of cultivating a wide array of local food vendors, distilleries, and wineries, and this year was no exception. There was something for all palates, from local Bay Area spots like Tacolicious, Jo’s Modern Thai, and El Garage to popular food trucks like Senor Sisig, serving up Filipino eats. For the sweet tooth, Haight Streets Johnny Doughnuts, named one of the best things to eat at the festival, was back with an extensive assortment of tasty doughnuts and a few newbies. They even had a vegan doughnut option, which I have to say was delicious. One thing I would recommend to organizers would be to take a cue from SoCal’s Coachella Music Festival and bring in more vegan food vendors, given how big veganism has grown in the last several years. Although there were a few selections here and there, animal-free foods were lacking.
No major festival is without the occasional hiccups, production issues, and artist-scheduled time conflicts, but all and all, the 2023 and 15th year edition of Outside Lands was an incredible experience and arguably the best year to date. Organizers continue to raise the bar, and I’m excited to see what’s in store next year.
Until then, visit https://sfoutsidelands.com
