Justin Bieber headlines Coachella with nostalgia-fuelled set

Justin Bieber headlines Coachella with nostalgia-fuelled set

On Saturday night, Justin Bieber delivered a performance that felt like a journey through his musical past, marking his return to a major stage as Coachella’s headliner. At 32, the pop icon showcased a mix of older hits and newer tracks, using a laptop to project YouTube videos of his classic songs like “Baby” and “Never Say Never.” This visually nostalgic approach sparked speculation about his connection to the platform where his career began.

Bieber’s set also featured childhood home videos from his early days in the industry, displayed on the big screen as part of the show. He seemed to engage with live comments on the YouTube stream, creating an interactive experience for fans. The gig represented his largest live event in four years, following the cancellation of his Justice world tour due to health challenges.

“It’s not clocking to you, I’m standing on business,” Bieber declared in a viral clip from his set, prompting discussions about his mental state.

After recovering from Ramsay Hunt syndrome—a condition linked to shingles—he returned to the spotlight with his surprise album “Swag,” released in July 2025. Earlier in February, he had performed at the Grammy Awards, hinting at a gradual comeback. His Coachella appearance contrasted sharply with the previous night’s act by Sabrina Carpenter, whose Hollywood-inspired gig included elaborate costumes and choreography.

Supporting acts such as The Kid Laroi, Wizkid, Tems, and Dijon added to the night’s energy, while Hailey Bieber and celebrity duo Timothée Chalamet-Kylie Jenner were among the crowd. The festival, held over two weekends at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, attracts more than 100,000 attendees daily. Sunday’s headliner will be Colombian pop star Karol G, continuing the event’s tradition of high-profile performances since 2002.