Austin City Limits Music Festival, a beacon for music lovers, reveals its 2024 roster, featuring an exciting blend of modern icons and nostalgic acts. Set against the scenic backdrop of Zilker Park in Austin, Texas, the festival spans two weekends, October 4-6 and October 11-13, Billboard reports. Dua Lipa, Chris Stapleton, and Tyler, the Creator, along with bands like Blink-182 and Khruangbin, top this year's impressive lineup.

Dua Lipa, riding the wave of her latest album “Radical Optimism,” which debuted on May 3, makes her first appearance at the festival. Her new record features the hit single “Houdini,” a playful mix of psychedelic pop. Chris Stapleton, another headliner, continues to draw fans with his deep, soulful country sounds, buoyed by his recent album “Higher” and its successful single “White Horse.”

The lineup boasts a healthy dose of nostalgia with Blink-182, the punk rock giants known for their energetic performances that promise to transport festival-goers back to the heyday of pop punk. Additionally, Sturgill Simpson, fresh from his Grammy victories and a headlining spot at San Francisco's Outside Lands Festival, is set to grace the stage with tracks from his latest album, “The Ballad of Dood & Juanita.”

Festival Highlights and Fan Reactions

Alongside the headliners, Austin City Limits will feature a variety of performers spanning different genres and styles. Notable artists include Leon Bridges, whose collaboration with Khruangbin on the “Texas Moon” EP blends silky R&B with psychedelic tunes, and Tyler, the Creator, who returns to ACL after a memorable last-minute performance in 2021. His latest project, “Call Me If You Get Lost,” has garnered critical acclaim and added tracks in its recent rerelease.

Despite the star-studded lineup, some festival-goers have expressed disappointment over the absence of rock legends like The Killers and Deftones. Critics of the lineup argue that the festival has shifted towards contemporary trends at the expense of rock staples. Others have pointed out the disparity in acts between weekends, which has sparked further debate among attendees looking for a more consistent festival experience.

The festival also honors local talent, featuring Austin natives and returning performers like Bob Schneider and Asleep at the Wheel, as well as fresh faces such as Kalu & The Electric Joint and Ugandan artist Jon Muq. These acts ensure the festival vibe remains eclectic and vibrant, mirroring the diverse musical landscape of Austin itself.

Dua Lipa and Others Ready to Rock

Austin City Limits continues to evolve, blending fresh acts with familiar faces and expanding its musical horizons. While some may miss the rock icons of yesteryears, the 2024 lineup promises a compelling mix of genres and artists, ensuring that all music tastes are catered to. Whether you're there to relive your punk rock past with Blink-182 or to sway to the smooth rhythms of Leon Bridges and Khruangbin, ACL 2024 is gearing up to be a festival to remember.