88rising’s Head in the Clouds Music Festival takes over LA
Jackson Wang | Photo by Connor Gaskey
Three things are certain in life: death, taxes, and 88rising’s Head in the Clouds.
This past weekend in Pasadena, 88rising’s Head in the Clouds took the city by storm. Despite the countless other festivals and concerts going on and the mid to high 90s temperatures, thousands of fans still came out to HITC Los Angeles. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Head in the Clouds or HITC, HITC is a music festival organized by the music group 88rising. The festival’s lineup feature musical artists across the Asian diaspora.
With a lineup that boasted an eclectic mix of international and local artists, Head in the Clouds once again proved itself to be a platform for cross-cultural collaborations, vibrant performances, and genre-defying music. The festival exceeded all expectations, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.
Rina Sawayama | Photo by Laura Harvey
The main stage featured a staggering array of artists who captivated the audience from start to finish. The day kicked off with the melodies of rising star Warren Hue, followed by the energetic beats of Masiwei and Milli, who brought a burst of flavor to the stage. The crowd went wild and was packed as Japanese-British singer Rina Sawayama graced the stage, delivering his signature brand of lyricism and charm. The high-energy performances continued with the headliners DPR Live and DPR Ian, whose infectious charisma had fans rapping and singing along to every word. The crowd only grew larger for special guest Zedd who delivered arguably one of “the best sets of the day” after playing nostalgic classics as well as a Squid Game theme song remix. The energy kept rolling in as the legendary Rich Brian had everyone singing their hearts out to his closing song “Drive Safe”. Last but not least, the atmosphere intensified with Jackson Wang’s entrance arguably one of the most exciting talents in the industry. Jackson’s introspective lyrics and cinematic performance took the stage and had the audience in a trance as he performed a mix of his signature hits.
Day 2 was nothing less than the performances of day 1. The festival kicked off with an impressive ensemble of emerging artists who were eager to make their mark on the stage. These rising stars embraced the opportunity to showcase their talents, unleashing soulful melodies and infectious beats that captivated the early-bird attendees. From captivating vocals to jaw-dropping instrumental solos, Loren, Atarashi Gakko!, Yerin Baek, and Zion.T set the tone for an unforgettable day of music.
Zedd | Photo by Connor Gaskey
One set that should not be forgotten is none other than XG. XG demonstrated their captivating and skillful choreography on top of their vocals. Although there were great group performances all around, XG showcased a mesmerizing but short performance that left everyone wanting more. Following strongly was none other than the Japanese duo, Yoasobi. Yoasobi’s Japanese lyrics resonated with all despite the language barrier due to their rise in fame through social media platforms such as TikTok which had everyone singing and dancing along. As the sun set and anticipation reached its peak, it was time for the fan favorite of the day to take the stage, and they did not disappoint. The audience was transported to a different world as Niki enchanted everyone with her stellar performance. Iconic hits resonated through the festival grounds, inciting an electric atmosphere that had everyone singing along. Niki proved why she is loved by so many people, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to hear her sing live.
No music festival would be complete without mesmerizing stage productions, and Day 2 at Head in the Clouds Festival delivered in this department. Cutting-edge visual effects, pyrotechnics, and expert lighting choreography elevated the performances to a whole new level. The stage became an immersive canvas, painting a vivid picture that perfectly complemented the music, creating a multisensory experience that won't soon be forgotten
XG | Photo by Laura Harvey
One of the most intriguing aspects of Day 2 was the captivating and unexpected collaborations that took place at the end of the day. Artists from contrasting genres united, defying expectations and pushing the boundaries of musical fusion. The crowd witnessed mind-blowing mashups, as rap artists joined forces with electronic musicians, and R&B vocalists shared the stage with rock bands. The chemistry between these talented artists was palpable, resulting in a true musical feast for the audience.
Beyond the memorable performances, Head in the Clouds Festival provided a diverse range of experiences for attendees. The festival grounds featured a variety of food trucks serving delectable bites from different Asian cuisines, perfectly complementing the cultural fusion celebrated throughout the event. Head in the Clouds Festival is renowned for its exceptional lineup of artists and stunning live performances, but there's more to this exhilarating event than just the music. Whether you're a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, this celestial gathering offers an array of experiences that go beyond the melodies and beats. Let's explore the myriad of attractions and activities that make Head in the Clouds festival an unforgettable experience.
Yerin Baek | Photo by Connor Gaskey
As you wander around the festival grounds, prepare to be immersed in a surreal world of interactive art installations. From towering sculptures to captivating light displays, these art pieces engage all your senses, encouraging exploration and sharing Instagram-worthy moments. Whether you're admiring the intricate craftsmanship or participating in visually stunning installations, these creations will transport you to a world where imagination knows no bounds.
Head in the Clouds Festival is known not only for its musical talent but for its diverse food options that cater to every craving. Food stalls are scattered throughout the festival, offering a wealth of culinary delights to satiate your taste buds. From colorful food trucks serving mouthwatering international cuisine to indulgent desserts that will leave you craving for more, this festival truly understands the significance of satisfying your hunger while enjoying the festivities.
Photo by Lindsey Blane
