Governors Ball 2024 lit up Flushing Meadows Corona Park with a hot June weekend of unforgettable performances and magical moments. The festival featured an eclectic lineup and many unforgettable moments in music. Here are the highlights from the artists that truly stood out.
Friday
Arcy Drive delivered an electrifying performance that set the perfect tone for the weekend. Their indie pop sound, characterized by infectious hooks and upbeat rhythms, quickly engages the crowd. The band’s synergy on stage is palpable, with each member contributing to a cohesive and dynamic performance. Frontman Nick Mateyunas captivated the audience with his charismatic presence and engaging banter between songs. Tracks like “Roll My Stone” and personal favorite “Time Shrinks” had the crowd singing along, a good sign for early in the day. Arcy Drive’s ability to seamlessly blend catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics ensures that their set is not only a highlight of the day but also a promising glimpse into the future of indie pop music.
Ryan Beatty brought a more introspective vibe to the day, with his soulful melodies and evocative lyrics. His performance, featuring songs like “Bruises Off the Peach” and “Bright Red,” felt like a personal serenade to each audience member, capturing the quiet beauty of summertime reflections.
Goth Babe took the stage, enveloping the audience in his dreamy, synth-rock ambiance. With a backdrop of shimmering lights and a cool evening breeze, musician Griff Washburn’s performance feels almost magical. Songs like “Sometimes” and “Weekend Friend” resonate deeply, with fans swaying and losing themselves in the music. Goth Babe’s stage presence is upbeat and captivating, exuding a sense of genuine joy and connection with the audience. His set is a perfect blend of mellow tunes and more upbeat tracks, providing a serene yet energizing experience that leaves festival-goers feeling refreshed and uplifted.
Post Malone, the day’s headliner, delivered a show-stopping performance that spanned genres with his highly talented band playing alongside him, including a very lucky crowd member who played guitar during “Stay”. Barefoot and beer in hand, Posty launched into hits like “Better Now” and “Wow,” while fireworks lit up the sky. His heartfelt rendition of “I Fall Apart” was a highlight, exemplifying his status as a popular festival headliner.
SATURDAY
Claire Rosinkranz charmed the crowd with her quirky pop sensibilities and infectious enthusiasm. Her performance of “Backyard Boy” was a sing-along moment, with fans delighted by her fresh and fun stage presence.
Sabrina Carpenter‘s midday performance was a masterclass in charming an audience. The pop star pranced onto the stage just before 5 p.m., donning her signature platform boots and a soft yellow dress with a heart cutout, a detail mirrored by many fans in the crowd. Carpenter’s set was a delightful mix of her hits, including the new single “Please Please Please,” which she introduced with the quip: “I know I said I can’t relate to desperation, but turns out I’m just a girl.” Her effortless confidence and engaging banter, combined with standout performances of “Fast Times,” “Because I Liked a Boy,” “Espresso,” and “Nonsense,” made for an unforgettable show. The crowd was particularly charmed by her playful outro, tweaking the lyrics of “Nonsense” to fit the festival: “People who hate Pride can suck my Gov Balls.”
Hippo Campus brought a refreshing indie rock vibe to their performance, characterized by intricate guitar work, tight harmonies, and thoughtful lyrics. Their setlist featured a mix of fan favorites and tracks from their latest album, showcasing their evolution as a band. The members’ chemistry on stage was palpable, creating an engaging and cohesive performance. Highlights included the energetic “Way It Goes” and personal favorite “Boys”. The band had a coveted sunset slot, with rays of sunlight peeking through the stage throughout their set.
The Killers delivered a powerhouse performance that lived up to their reputation as one of the most iconic rock bands of the 21st century. Brandon Flowers’ charismatic stage presence and powerful vocals were at the forefront as the band performed a mix of their classic hits and newer material. Songs like “Mr. Brightside” and “Somebody Told Me” elicited enthusiastic sing-alongs, while deeper cuts showcased the band’s versatility and depth. The energy in the venue was electric, with the crowd feeding off the band’s dynamic performance.
SUNDAY
Chappell Roan‘s performance was immediately viral, as she entered the stage in an apple smoking a joint, dressed in “drag as the biggest queen of all” (yes, as the ultimate testament to NYC, Chappell was dressed as Lady Liberty herself). With a setlist that featured both upbeat gay anthems like “Feminenominon” and “Hot To Go!” and introspective ballads “Casual” and brand new unreleased song “Subway”, Chappell showcased her versatility and creativity as an artist. The rising star teared up at one point during her set when she said “but in case you had forgotten what’s etched on my pretty little toes, ‘Give me your tired, your poor; your huddled masses yearning to breath free. That means freedom and trans rights, that means freedom and women’s rights, and it especially means freedom for all oppressed people in occupied territories”.
Renee Rapp‘s performance was a powerful showcase of her incredible vocal talent and emotional depth. Known for her role in “Mean Girls” on Broadway, Renee brought her theatrical flair to the stage, delivering a set that was both musically impressive and deeply moving. Her ability to convey raw emotion through her songs resonated with the audience, particularly on tracks like “In the Kitchen” and “Tattoos.” Renee’s stage presence was confident and charismatic, drawing the audience into her performance and leaving a lasting impression. Her concert was a testament to her versatility as an artist and her bright future in the music industry.
SZA’s performance was a masterclass in modern R&B, showcasing her smooth vocals, captivating stage presence, and deeply personal songwriting. Her setlist featured a mix of tracks from her critically acclaimed album “Ctrl”, which celebrated its 7th anniversary on the day of her performance, as well as newer releases, providing a comprehensive look at her diverse discography. SZA’s ability to connect with the audience was evident as she shared personal stories and the inspiration behind her songs. Standout moments included the soulful “The Weekend” and the introspective “Supermodel,” both of which highlighted her lyrical prowess and emotional depth, and of course the moment when she swung on a rope before jumping and landing in a perfect split. SZA’s concert was an intimate and powerful experience, leaving the audience in awe of her talent and artistry.
