Coachella’s origins trace back to a Pearl Jam concert in 1993. Upset with Ticketmaster’s fees, the band chose the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, as a venue. The event highlighted the location’s potential, inspiring Paul Tollett and Rick Van Santen to launch Coachella in 1999.
The first Coachella drew 25,000 fans, but financial losses left its future uncertain. It returned in 2001, embracing diverse genres and attracting larger crowds. By 2004, headliners like Radiohead and the Red Hot Chili Peppers cemented its place in festival culture.
Coachella grew into more than music—it became a hub for art, fashion, and cultural trends. Iconic performances, surprise sets, and interactive installations made it an experience. The festival also pioneered livestreaming, making its events accessible globally.
What started as a rebellion against corporate ticketing is now a global phenomenon, with Coachella setting standards for music festivals worldwide. Its success reshaped Indio’s economy and turned a desert venue into a cultural hotspot celebrated each spring.
Coachella’s origins trace back to a Pearl Jam concert in 1993. Upset with Ticketmaster’s fees, the band chose the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, as a venue. The event highlighted the location’s potential, inspiring Paul Tollett and Rick Van Santen to launch Coachella in… pic.twitter.com/tMmnknu7P7
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) November 21, 2024