Semaj McLeod
In a post-pandemic world full of different music festivals, the main focus is usually appealing to one specific genre of music fans or a particular age group. Governors Ball 2022 took it by the reigns and threw that idea out the window.
Turnin’ Up Da Heat!
With a star-studded lineup boasting the generational icon Kid Cudi, pop music princess Halsey, and split headliner sets that made up a hip-hop fan’s dream of Playboi Carti and J Cole, Governors Ball was truly a treat for all music lovers.
Day one started strong with artists such as Coi Leray, Channel Tres, JPEGMAFIA, A$AP Ferg and Jack Harlow all dished out a preview of what’s to come for the weekend.
ASAP Ferg was a fashionably late addition to the festival. His performance was announced a mere two hours before it started after the removal of Lil Wayne, who was originally filling in for Migos. The Louisiana-born rapper missed the festival due to flight delays.
The vibes continued with a sonically beautiful set by headliner Kid Cudi. It served the audience a mix of nostalgia and current bangers for an impressive closing set.
Furthermore, the heavy rap presence of Day 1 was replaced with indie artists on Day 2. The switch-up amplified the hype and chill vibes and the crowd was loving it.
Not to be lost in the lack of rap was an incredible DJ set by DJ Diesel, known to most people as Shaq. Additionally, the news of Roddy Rich’s arrest for gun charges upon his arrival at the festival was announced.
Day 3’s lineup provided some sizzling heat that only the warmth of a New York summer day could compete with.
With up-and-coming star Ken Carson setting the tone for rage and hype-filled vibes, followed by a fantastic set by J Cole’s Dreamville counterpart JID.
As the sun set, Jasmine Sullivan mellowed out the crowd; it was time to pick between the carnage of a Playboi Carti set or the pure artistry of J Cole. There was no wrong choice; both artists performed their hearts out, leaving fans satisfied with their choice of which icon they should see.
Ultimately, Governors Ball’s overall energy had an amazing balance between hype and chill sets while appealing to a diverse crowd.
