It’s that exciting time of year again, Boston Calling is back and this time with their stacked 2024 lineup featuring Ed Sheeran, Tyler Childers, and The Killers as headliners along with other standouts like Leon Bridges, Hozier, and Meg Thee Stallion. The acclaimed annual three-day music festival is taking place Memorial Day Weekend, May 24 – 26, 2024 in Allston, MA. Boston Calling always proves to be an exceptional experience, from its iconic mix of musical performances to its commitment to new forms of entertainment and extensive food and drink offerings, and the overall electric vibes from the crowd and their devotion to the festival. It’s why it’s one of the best (if not the best) festival held on the east coast. We rounded up some of the best artists on the rise at the 2024 festival, you surely don’t want to miss out on these!
#1: MARIS
Listen: “Voicemail”, “Going Yet!”, “Heavenly Bodies”
Similar Artists: Maude Latour, Carol Ades, The Aces
When they’re playing: Friday 5/24 3:20pm-4:05 pm on Blue stage
Maris is quickly taking the world by storm with her captivating music and overall bubbly personality and stage presence. Musically, Maris demonstrates a versatility that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. From stripped-down ballads to upbeat anthems, she effortlessly navigates through different genres and styles, infusing each song with its own unique charm. Her soulful vocals soar over lush arrangements, enveloping the listener in a warm embrace and inviting them to get lost in the music. Maris released her debut EP Gravity in 2023 to immense praise and has since released “Voicemail” as her latest single with new songs on the way soon. We can’t wait to see her slay her first festival set at Boston Calling!
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#2: Beach Weather
Listen: “Pineapple Sunrise”, “Chit Chat”, “Unlovable”
Similar Artists: The Maine, The Beaches, Vacations
When they’re playing: Friday 5/24 3:00pm-3:50pm Red Stage
From the moment you press play, Beach Weather transports you to a sun-soaked indie pop paradise where worries are forgotten and the only thing that matters is the music. Their songs are filled with irresistible hooks that grab hold of you from the first chord and refuse to let go. Tracks like “Sex, Drugs, Etc.” and “Chit Chat” are instant earworms, with melodies that will have you singing along after just one listen. Their latest album Pineapple Sunrise is a masterpiece and will have you dancing along like its summertime. You definitely don’t want to miss out on seeing this band live.
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#3: Paper Lady
Listen: “Five of Swords”, “Star Cross”, “Violet”
Similar Artists: Trophy Wife, Mint Green
When they’re playing: Saturday 5/25 5:20pm- 5:50pm Orange Stage
Paper Lady isn’t just a band; they’re a revelation in the indie music scene. With their eclectic blend of folk-inspired melodies, haunting vocals, and introspective lyricism, they’ve carved out a niche all their own, capturing the hearts and minds of listeners everywhere. Their latest EP Traveling Exploding Star is a testament to their artistry, showcasing their ability to write captivating and haunting songs. From the stellar works of “Five of Swords” to “Starcross”, each track is a journey unto itself, inviting the listener to get lost in its depths and discover something new with each listen. Paper Lady also hail from Boston so this festival set will be extra special for them for sure.
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#4: Chappell Roan
Listen: “Red Wine Supernova” “Good Luck, Babe!”, “Femininomenon”
Similar Artists: MUNA, Renee Rap, Rina Sawayama
When they’re playing: Sunday 5/26 4:05pm- 5:05pm Green Stage
Chappell Roan is currently the moment and if you don’t know about her then you soon will because she is quickly taking over the music industry in the best way. Chappell’s talent is undeniable. She effortlessly captivates audiences with her raw emotion and undeniable charisma. Her debut album released in 2023 The Rise And Fall of a Midwest Princess is a testament to her artistry, showcasing her ability to craft deeply personal songs that resonate with listeners on a profound level. From “Pink Pony Club” to the infectious pop anthem “Femininomenon,” each of Chappell’s songs are on another level. Recently releasing her catchy new single “Good Luck, Babe!” , Chappell transcends into stardom. If you love a good time and are a fan of fun stage antics and drag, then be sure to catch Chappell at Boston Calling.
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#5: Zola Simone
Listen: “Pirouette”, “Happy Ending”, “What its Feels Like”
Similar Artists: Mika Ratsula, Jenna Doe, Moody Joody
When they’re playing: Sunday 5/26 5:15pm- 5:50pm Orange Stage
Zola Simone is emerging as a star in the industry and she is unstoppable at the moment. Her unique and refreshing sound that blends indie, pop, and R&B matched with her raw, vulnerable, and honest lyrics is what sets her apart from many of her peers. Simone’s music manages to traverse the challenging terrain of being both deeply personal and undeniably relatable. From the moment you press play, it’s clear that Zola is a force to be reckoned with. Her voice is rich and expressive, effortlessly gliding over lush production and intricate arrangements. Whether she’s belting out powerful anthems or delivering intimate ballads, there’s an authenticity and depth to her vocals that is truly captivating. Her recently released EP Red is a masterpiece of work and one of her best to date. Be sure to check out her set if you really want to feel all the emotions.
This years Boston Calling Festival is setting up to be one of their best yet, so you better not miss out on it! Tickets are on sale now here, and you can check out their website for more information on the festival.
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