The 10 Must-See Artists on the Coachella 2026 Lineup (That Aren't Headliners)

Coachella has always been more than a music festival, it is a cultural spectacle where genres collide and stars are born. For 2026, the organisers have delivered a line-up that feels both nostalgic and daring, mixing legends with fresh talent. While the headliners will naturally grab the spotlight, some of the most unforgettable moments often happen away from the main stage. Here are 10 artists you simply cannot miss at Coachella 2026.

BIGBANG's Explosive K-Pop Comeback

The return of BIGBANG is one of the year's biggest talking points. Their reunion single 'Still Life' racked up 50 million YouTube views in just a week, according to BBC Music. Known for dazzling choreography and high production values, their first Coachella performance promises to be a milestone, not just for K-pop, but for the festival itself.

The xx Bring Intimacy to the Desert

The xx have a way of making even the largest venues feel like small, secret spaces. Their minimalist sound and whispered harmonies have earned them chart-topping success in 15 countries, per Pitchfork. Expect a hypnotic set that offers a calm pause amid the chaos of the desert.

Lykke Li's Heartbreak Anthems

Lykke Li is a master of turning melancholy into something beautiful. Tracks like 'I Follow Rivers' have made her a festival staple, but her newer, more personal songs promise to resonate deeply under the California night sky. If you are looking for a performance that feels cinematic and raw, this is it.

Laufey Makes Jazz Cool Again

Jazz might not be the first thing you expect at Coachella, but Laufey is redefining the genre for Gen Z. Her track 'From the Start' crossed 100 million Spotify streams in 2025, according to the platform's Wrapped data. With her mix of old-school charm and modern storytelling, she is set to win over both jazz veterans and curious newcomers.

FKA Twigs Blurs Art and Performance

FKA Twigs doesn't just perform music, she creates entire worlds. Known for experimental pop, dance, and breathtaking visuals, she has described 2026 as her 'most ambitious year yet', per Rolling Stone. Her Coachella set is shaping up to be part gig, part theatre, and completely unforgettable.

Wet Leg's Indie Mischief

Wet Leg have become the cheeky disruptors of indie rock. The Isle of Wight duo's debut sold 300,000 copies worldwide, according to BPI, and their playful lyrics and infectious riffs make them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their set will bring plenty of fun to the festival field.

Young Thug's Fearless Hip-Hop

Never one to play it safe, Young Thug continues to stretch the boundaries of hip-hop. His 2023 project pulled in more than 500 million streams, per Spotify data. At Coachella, expect a high-energy show blending trap hits with bold, genre-bending experiments.

The Strokes' Timeless Rock

Few bands capture indie nostalgia like The Strokes. With riffs that defined a generation, they remain one of the most electrifying live acts. Their Coachella 2026 set will likely balance classics with songs from their 2024 release, reminding fans why their garage rock revolution still matters.

Iggy Pop's Punk Spirit Lives On

At 79, Iggy Pop is living proof that punk never dies. The Guardian reported that his 2023 European tour sold out in less than 48 hours, and his raw, shirtless energy shows no sign of slowing down. His Coachella performance is sure to be a masterclass in chaos.

David Byrne's Festival Theatre

David Byrne has always been a visionary. From his Talking Heads days to American Utopia, he has transformed concerts into full-scale productions. At Coachella 2026, expect a set that blends rhythm, choreography, and social commentary in a way only Byrne can deliver.

Why These Acts Are Essential Viewing

Coachella 2026 is not just about the headliners. From BIGBANG's global pop power to Laufey's viral jazz, Wet Leg's mischievous indie, and Iggy Pop's timeless chaos, these artists prove why the festival remains the world's biggest cultural stage. Whether you want to dance, cry, or simply witness history, these 10 performances will define your weekend in the desert.