By: Shahrzad Rasekh By: Shahrzad Rasekh | September 17, 2021 | Culture,
The lineup for the 2021 Firefly Festival in Dover, DE., is bursting with talent.
Top-tier artists representing everything from trap music to psychedelic rock will spread across seven stages. Any music enthusiast is guaranteed to enjoy the four-day event, coming to life Thursday to Sunday, Sept. 23 to 26.
While you can't go wrong with headliners Billie Eilish, Tame Impala, The Killers, Lizzo and more, you should definitely get out there and see something new. Here are 10 artists expected to deliver notable performances.
See also: Firefly Music Festival 2021 Announces Billie Eilish, The Killers, Tame Impala, Lizzo and More
Thursday: 10:15 pm at the Firefly Stage
Billie Eilish has become a worldwide sensation with her melancholy pop ever since rising to fame in 2015 with hit single “Ocean Eyes.” The young singer is a main headliner, and you'll soon find out why. Her mesmerizing performances and familiar rapport with her audience are expected to attract a significant crowd.
Friday: 8:15 p.m. at the Firefly Stage
Formed in Kentucky, Cage The Elephant rose to fame with alternative rock tracks “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” and “Trouble." The band has rightfully earned a reputation for its spirited stage presence. Attendees will be carried away by this group's relentless dynamism and high energy.
Thursday: 9:30 p.m. at the Pavilion Stage
Named a “Billboard Dance Emerging Artist” by Billboard in August 2019 and ranked the No. 2 live-streaming DJ by Clubbing TV in 2020, this improvisational funk-master has successfully grown his fan base with his distinctive sounds and humorous personality. His music is notably marked by looped layering, created by his Boss RC-505 loop station, and often includes comical lyrics.
Saturday: 11 p.m. at the Firefly Stage
Australia's Tame Impala blends elements from psychedelic rock and indie pop to create a unique, recognizable sound. Led by the creative mind of Kevin Parker, the producer is joined on stage by a full band for a performance that will wrap you in a unique mix of vocals, instrumentals and electronic elements. Oh, and the light show is always stellar.
Sunday: 7:15 p.m. at the Backyard Stage
Ranked one of Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” in 2020, Texas-born Megan Thee Stallion is a rap powerhouse. She rose to fame with her 2019 single “Hot Girl Summer,” a tribute to the themes of confidence, sensuality and sexuality that set her apart. Her set will be nothing short of energetic and empowering.
Saturday: 9:30 p.m. at the Wonder Stage
Houston-based trio Khruangbin is best known for its captivating, mainly-instrumental mix of soul, psychedelia and rock. Meaning “airplane” in Thai, the band's name refers to the international influences that shape its sound. This live performance will carry you across the globe and back.
Saturday: 8:15 p.m. at the Pavilion Stage
British deep house DJ Duke Dumont is best known for hit singles “Need U (100%),” “I Got U” and “Ocean Drive.” His groovy, infectious style of disco-laced house has topped the charts on multiple occasions. You're guaranteed to get sweaty to his sultry, club-ready mix.
Sunday: 4 p.m. at the Backyard Stage
Curry’s moody rap hits “Clout Cobain” and “Ultimate” are marked by introspective lyrics and a powerful flow, winning him the Genius Community’s “Lyricist of the Year'' award in 2019. Previous concertgoers have noted his unmatched energy. Expect to leave this show with an even greater appreciation for his music and his message.
Sunday: 10:30 p.m. at the Firefly Stage
Known for her fun and joyful pop, Lizzo lifts spirits anywhere she performs. The flute-playing, booty-shaking singer was even nominated for “Best Live Act” by the NME Awards in 2020. You might even witness one of the classically-trained singer's flute performances!
Sunday: 7:30 at the Firefly Stage
Known for blending bossa nova sounds with synthetic elements, Sofi Tukker's music is an escape to the tropics with a characteristic blend of jungle pop and tropical house. “Drinkee” was nominated for a Grammy in 2017 for Best Dance Recording. The duo’s fun tunes will quickly turn the festival grounds into a vibrant dance floor.
Tickets to Firefly Festival are now on sale, ranging from one to four-day passes and camping packages. can even set up pitch for added convenience and proximity to the festival. See the full lineup at fireflyfestival.com.
Photography by: Frank Hoensch / Getty