The Strokes made a significant return to the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 11, 2026. This performance marked their first appearance at the festival in 15 years, thrilling fans with a setlist primarily featuring their early hits. The band engaged the crowd with their hallmark upbeat banter, particularly highlighting the unusual experience of opening for pop sensation Justin Bieber.
The Dream of Opening for Justin Bieber
Julian Casablancas, the band’s lead singer, humorously noted during their set, “We fulfilled our lifelong dream of opening for Justin Bieber.” His light-hearted commentary resonated with the audience, as he acknowledged the palpable excitement for Bieber’s upcoming performance. Casablancas mentioned his own anticipation, stating, “I’m here for him too.”
Setlist Highlights
The Strokes delivered a vibrant 15-song set that included a mix of classic tracks and newer material. They kicked off the concert with “Bad Decisions” before transitioning into fan favorites like:
- Hard to Explain
- Selfless
- Someday
- Last Nite
- Reptilia
- Going Shopping
This diverse selection not only showcased their early successes but also included songs from recent albums like “The New Abnormal” and their upcoming release, “Reality Awaits.”
Social Commentary and Fashion Statements
Beyond the music, Casablancas used the stage as a platform for social commentary. He wore a t-shirt emblazoned with a “Crime” slogan paired with the Amazon Prime logo. He also addressed the audience regarding the U.S. military draft registration, saying, “You guys excited about the draft? Oh, wait, not the NFL draft.” He mentioned the upcoming registration rule for eligible men, turning a serious topic into a playful interaction.
Future Appearances
Following their memorable Coachella set, The Strokes have several festival engagements lined up. These include:
- Just Like Heaven on August 22
- Outside Lands from August 7-9
- Shaky Knees on August 18
With their distinct blend of rock and insightful commentary, The Strokes continue to captivate audiences and make headlines, as evidenced by their recent unforgettable performance at Coachella.
