09 Sep Lollapalooza Berlin: Mega Lineup and Mood Check 2023
1:50 min read
Three years after its restart. Lollapalooza Berlin 2023 in Olympiapark lacked the comeback energy of 2021. Instead, it delivered exactly what it promised: a large, well-organised festival with an exceptional lineup. That’s the new normal-and it works.
Key Takeaways
- Headliners: Billie Eilish (Friday), Kendrick Lamar (Saturday), Depeche Mode (Sunday)
- Triple sell-out-over 85,000 visitors each day
- Depeche Mode as Lollapalooza headliner was one of the most surprising headliner choices in years
- Top sub-stage acts: Wet Leg, Arlo Parks, Jungle
Billie Eilish: Berlin’s Second Chapter
Billie Eilish had already flashed across Berlin’s radar at Lollapalooza 2022-this year she was the headliner. Her set opened with “bury a friend” and closed with an emotional “when the party’s over.” In between, 90 minutes that proved how far she’s come from bedroom-pop producer to a controlled stadium performer. The LED stage architecture was her most ambitious yet in Berlin. No kitsch-just precision.
Kendrick Lamar: Second Berlin Gig, Different Vibe
Kendrick had already played Lollapalooza Berlin in 2022. In 2023 he arrived with a different set approach: more material from “Mr. Morale,” less greatest-hits mode. It polarised. Fans of the early albums missed “Backseat Freestyle” and “Swimming Pools.” Fans of his current work were more enthusiastic. That’s Kendrick’s stance: he doesn’t do best-of shows. He delivers concerts with a message.
Depeche Mode: The Surprise Headliner Statement
Depeche Mode as Lollapalooza headliner would have shocked prognosticators in 2015. In 2023, after the death of Andy Fletcher and with the album “Memento Mori” as backdrop, it felt like a statement: this band has survived five decades and remains more relevant than ever. The Olympiapark crowd-largely younger than the band-knew every lyric. “Personal Jesus,” “Enjoy the Silence,” “Policy of Truth.” The closing fireworks were personally dedicated by Dave Gahan as a farewell to Andy Fletcher.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who headlined Lollapalooza Berlin 2023?
The headliners for Lollapalooza Berlin 2023 at Olympiapark were Billie Eilish (Friday), Kendrick Lamar (Saturday) and Depeche Mode (Sunday). The festival sold out all three days.
Why was Depeche Mode on the Lollapalooza 2023 lineup?
Depeche Mode were touring in 2023 behind their album “Memento Mori,” their first since founding member Andy Fletcher’s passing. The headliner slot on Lollapalooza’s main stage was part of a broader European tour and surprised many by pairing an electro-pop legend with Lollapalooza’s youthful audience.
How was the vibe at Lollapalooza Berlin 2023?
Lollapalooza Berlin 2023 felt more relaxed than the immediate post-pandemic editions of 2021/22. Less collective relief-fueled euphoria, more straightforward festival energy-a sign that things are returning to normal.
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Cover image source: Pexels / Jeremy Li