Top 10 Must-See Performances at Outside Lands 2025
Outside Lands 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting festivals of the year, with an incredible lineup of artists spanning multiple genres. To help you plan your festival experience, here’s a ranking of the top 10 must-see performances, starting with the most unmissable act.
10. Doechii
Why You Can’t-Miss It:
Doechii is one of the most exciting rising stars in hip-hop, blending rap, R&B, and electronic sounds into a high-energy, theatrical performance.
With hits like “Persuasive,” “Crazy,” and “Swamp Btches,”* she’s known for her bold personality, genre-bending sound, and electrifying stage presence. If you’re looking for a fresh and energetic performance, Doechii is the artist to watch.
9. Thundercat
Why You Can’t-Miss It:
A bass-playing genius and one of the most innovative musicians in the industry, Thundercat fuses jazz, funk, R&B, and psychedelic rock into a mind-blowing live experience.
Expect insane bass solos, humor-filled stage banter, and an unforgettable performance featuring songs like “Them Changes,” “Dragonball Durag,” and “Show You The Way.” If you appreciate virtuoso musicianship, this is a must-see set.
8. Jorja Smith
Why You Can’t-Miss It:
Jorja Smith’s smooth, soulful voice will be the perfect escape if you need a break from the high-energy festival atmosphere.
With hits like “Blue Lights,” “On My Mind,” and “Addicted,” her set will create a dreamy, intimate vibe that allows you to just sit back, relax, and soak in the moment. Expect beautiful vocals and deep emotions in every song.
7. Ludacris
Why You Can’t-Miss It:
A hip-hop legend with a long list of hit songs, Ludacris will bring a heavy dose of nostalgia and high-energy rap anthems to Outside Lands 2025.
His set will be a party from start to finish, with classics like “Move Btch,”* “Stand Up,” and “Rollout.” If you want to relive the golden era of hip-hop and jump around to some of the most iconic rap tracks of the 2000s, this is the set for you.
6. Glass Animals
Why You Can’t-Miss It:
With trippy visuals, hypnotic beats, and a dreamy atmosphere, Glass Animals delivers one of the most immersive live experiences in alternative music.
Expect to hear their biggest hits, including “Heat Waves,” “Gooey,” and “Tokyo Drifting.” Their psychedelic sound and engaging stage presence will make their set one of the most memorable moments of the festival.
5. Vampire Weekend
Why You Can’t-Miss It:
A staple of indie rock, Vampire Weekend are known for their catchy melodies, playful lyrics, and energetic live performances.
With festival-friendly anthems like “A-Punk,” “Oxford Comma,” and “This Life,” their set will have everyone singing along and dancing. If you love feel-good, upbeat music, this is a performance you can’t afford to miss.
4. Anderson.Paak & The Free Nationals
Why You Can’t-Miss It:
A master of blending hip-hop, funk, R&B, and soul, Anderson. Paak is known for his infectious energy, smooth vocals, and live drumming skills.
His performance, backed by his amazing band The Free Nationals, will feature groove-filled jams, incredible musicianship, and non-stop good vibes. Expect songs like “Come Down,” “Tints,” and “Leave The Door Open.” If you want to dance and vibe out, this is the set for you.
3. Hozier
Why You Can’t-Miss It:
Few artists can create an atmosphere as emotional and powerful as Hozier. His soulful voice and poetic lyrics will provide one of the most beautiful and moving moments of the festival.
Expect an intimate, heartfelt set with songs like “Take Me to Church,” “Cherry Wine,” and “Would That I.” If you’re looking for a soul-stirring, goosebumps-inducing performance, Hozier is the one to watch.
2. Doja Cat 🎶
Why You Can’t-Miss It:
A true pop superstar, Doja Cat brings flawless vocals, eye-catching visuals, and high-energy choreography to every performance.
With a setlist likely featuring “Say So,” “Woman,” “Paint The Town Red,” and “Attention,” her show will be one of the most visually stunning and musically dynamic performances of the weekend. If you love pop, R&B, and rap all mixed into one unforgettable performance, Doja Cat’s set is essential.
1. Tyler, The Creator
Why You Can’t-Miss It:
The #1 must-see performance at Outside Lands 2025 belongs to none other than Tyler, The Creator.
Known for his unpredictable stage presence, wild visuals, and genre-blending music, Tyler’s shows are always a one-of-a-kind experience. Expect huge energy, creative stage production, and a setlist filled with fan favorites like “Earfquake,” “See You Again,” “WUSYANAME,” and “LUMBERJACK.”
After canceling his 2024 Outside Lands appearance, Tyler is returning with a vengeance, making this set the most highly anticipated performance of the entire festival.
Final Thoughts
Outside Lands 2025 is packed with incredible performances, but these top 10 artists are the ones you absolutely cannot miss.
Whether you’re into rap, rock, pop, indie, or R&B, this ranking will help you plan your festival schedule so you don’t miss the best moments.
Make sure to grab your tickets, plan your outfits, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend in San Francisco! 🎶🔥