Charli XCX Shines at LIDO Festival: A Night to Remember
On Saturday, June 14, Charli XCX captivated the audience at London’s LIDO Festival, bringing a vibrant splash of neon green and an array of stars to the stage. With her electric presence, Charli not only headlined the festival but also curiously curated the lineup, showcasing a host of collaborators from her viral “Brat” remix album.
A Homecoming for the Pop Star
The performance held special significance for Charli, 32, as it marked a homecoming of sorts. Growing up in Essex, just a stone’s throw away from East London’s Victoria Park—the festival’s location—Charli felt the warmth of her roots. Fans dressed in matching neon green outfits honored their hometown hero, celebrating her evolution from a supporting act to a formidable headline performer.
Kicking Off the Night of Hits
As the night began, Charli instantly set the mood with the energetic remix of “365.” The show became a whirlwind of her biggest tracks, including fan favorites from her Grammy-winning album, Brat, like “Von Dutch” and the viral hit “Girl, So Confusing.” Charli even took a nostalgic trip down memory lane with electrifying renditions of “I Love It,” her breakthrough collaboration with Icona Pop, and “Speed Drive,” reminding fans of her journey to stardom.
Collaborations and Surprises
True to her collaborative spirit, the festival was enriched by surprise appearances. Notably, Swedish singer and rapper Bladee joined Charli on stage for a performance of their “Rewind” remix. His earlier headline slot on the secondary stage set the perfect tone for their dynamic duet, showcasing the spirit of collaboration that defines Charli’s work.
The Buzz Around “Apple Girl”
The audience was abuzz with speculation about who would take the stage as Charli’s “Apple girl,” a role made famous by previous stars like Chappell Roan and Rosé from Blackpink. This time, the honor went to Amelia Dimoldenberg, the charming host of the YouTube show Chicken Shop Date. Her presence added another level of excitement to the festival, drawing cheers and applause from fans.
Star-Studded Audience
As if having Charli XCX at the helm wasn’t enough, the crowd was a dazzling mix of celebrities, heightening the electric atmosphere. Actors Paul Mescal and Harris Dickinson were spotted, with Mescal embodying the lively spirit of the night. Joyous interactions among attendees underlined Charli’s impact on the crowd, which was wide-ranging and eager to celebrate.
The energy of the night highlighted Charli’s growth as an artist and her ability to bring a community together through her music. Each performance resonated deeply with the loyal fans, who are not just followers, but part of a vibrant subculture that Charli herself has actively cultivated.
A Celebration of Music and Identity
The LIDO Festival showcased more than just Charli’s hits; it was a celebration of community, collaboration, and artistic expression. As she delighted the crowd with her infectious beats and charismatic persona, attendees danced with abandon, creating memories that would last well beyond the evening. Charli XCX’s performance at the LIDO Festival was not merely an event; it was a resounding affirmation of her place in the music industry and the adoration she continues to inspire.