Grant Park in Chicago was buzzing with excitement on the evening of July 31, 2025, as festival-goers gathered for the first day of Lollapalooza. Among the many artists scheduled to perform, one name stood out: Gracie Abrams. Known for her introspective lyrics and emotive performances, Abrams was set to take the T-Mobile Stage, a significant step up from her previous appearance at the festival in 2022. As the sun began to set and the crowd filled the area, there was a palpable sense of anticipation in the air.
Full Setlist
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Risk
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Blowing Smoke
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21 (stripped back version)
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I Love You, I’m Sorry (SNL version)
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Where Do We Go Now?
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I Told You Things
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Mess It Up
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Let It Happen
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Death Wish (unreleased; on piano)
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I Miss You, I’m Sorry (on piano)
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Free Now
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That’s So True
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Close to You
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Dancing on My Own (with Robyn)
The Energy
From the moment Gracie Abrams stepped onto the stage, it was clear that she had evolved into a commanding presence in the music scene. The crowd erupted into cheers as she began with “Risk,” her voice resonating with clarity and emotion. The stripped-back arrangement of “21” showcased her vulnerability, drawing the audience in with its rawness.
As the set progressed, Abrams effortlessly transitioned between acoustic guitar, piano, and electric guitar, demonstrating her versatility as an artist. Her interactions with the crowd were genuine and heartfelt, creating an intimate atmosphere despite the large festival setting. The audience responded enthusiastically, singing along to every word and swaying to the rhythm.
The band’s performance was tight and cohesive, providing a solid foundation for Abrams’ vocals. The lighting and visuals complemented the music, enhancing the overall experience without overshadowing the performance.
Highlights & Crowd Moments
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“I Love You, I’m Sorry” (SNL version): This rendition of the fan-favorite track was met with raucous applause. Abrams’ emotive delivery and the band’s arrangement brought a fresh energy to the song, making it one of the standout moments of the set.
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“Death Wish” (unreleased; on piano): The debut performance of this unreleased track was a highlight for many fans. Abrams’ introspective lyrics and haunting melody captivated the audience, leaving them eager for its official release.
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“Dancing on My Own” (with Robyn): The surprise collaboration with Robyn was the perfect way to close out the set. The two artists’ harmonies blended beautifully, and the crowd’s energy reached a fever pitch as they danced and sang along to the iconic song.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at the T-Mobile Stage was one of camaraderie and shared appreciation for music. Fans of all ages gathered to witness Gracie Abrams’ performance, united by their love for her music. The setting sun cast a warm glow over the crowd, adding to the magical ambiance.
The diversity of the audience was evident, with fans from various backgrounds coming together to enjoy the music. The sense of community was palpable, with fans exchanging smiles, dances, and moments of connection throughout the set.
The sound quality was excellent, with each instrument and vocal coming through clearly. The lighting and visuals complemented the music, enhancing the overall experience without overshadowing the performance.
Tiny Quibbles
While the performance was largely flawless, there were a few minor technical issues. At times, the vocals were slightly overpowered by the instruments, making it difficult to catch every lyric. Additionally, the transitions between some songs felt a bit abrupt, though this did little to detract from the overall flow of the set.
The absence of an opening act was noticeable. While Gracie Abrams’ performance was more than enough to satisfy, the lack of a warm-up band left the audience with a bit more time to wait before the main event. However, this was a minor issue in an otherwise stellar evening.
Final Thoughts
Gracie Abrams’ performance at Lollapalooza 2025 was a testament to her growth as an artist. From her early days as a supporting act to her current status as a headliner, Abrams has proven that she is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Her set was a perfect blend of introspective ballads and upbeat tracks, showcasing her versatility and emotional depth.
The surprise collaboration with Robyn was the cherry on top of an already exceptional performance. It was a moment that fans will remember for years to come, solidifying Gracie Abrams’ place in the spotlight.
As the final notes of “Dancing on My Own” echoed through Grant Park, the crowd erupted into cheers, showing their appreciation for a night that was as entertaining as it was inspiring. Gracie Abrams had once again proven that she is a rising star in the music world.