Lykke Li Casts a Dreamy Spell on Weekend One at Coachella 2026

Ersilia Pompilio
Apr 11
3 min read

By Ersilia Pompilio

Photo taken by SQUAD Coachella YouTube Live Broadcast

Taking over the Outdoor Theater stage, Lykke didn’t just perform—she floated in. After being off the live circuit since 2024 (her last show was in Norway, for the real ones who keep track), this set marked the official kickoff of her new era. And yes, the vibes were immaculate.

She emerged cloaked in a moody grey hooded raincoat (very “mysterious forest witch who texts you at 2am”), only to reveal a sleek black leotard underneath. Minimalist. Iconic. Slightly intimidating. The crowd? Immediately locked in.

Main character energy, unlocked

If you somehow need a refresher: Lykke Li (born Li Lykke Timotej Zachrisson) is that girl when it comes to indie pop. Her sound this hazy blend of dream pop, electronic, and what’s been lovingly described as “powdered sugar pop” has been soundtracking our heartbreaks for over a decade. From chart hits to scoring moments for brands like Levi’s and Gucci, to even pulling up for the FIFA 09 opening ceremonies… she’s low key everywhere.

And let’s not forget her cinematic era. Earlier in 2024, she covered Ring of Fire for the Netflix film Damsel, a reminder that her voice can literally haunt you in any medium.

The set: sad girl spring but make it chic

The performance felt like stepping into a dream you didn’t want to wake up from. Her vocals were soft but devastating, gliding over the crowd as the sun dipped and the desert cooled. And when she performed Possibility? Oh, it was over.

Suddenly, the entire audience was transported back to 2009, emotionally relitigating The Twilight Saga: New Moon like it just dropped. You could literally hear people whispering “Team Edward” and “Team Jacob” like it was a personality trait again. Even the YouTube livestream chat was spiraling. Nostalgia hit HARD.

A Pisces in her power

Lykke has always credited her creative flow to transcendental meditation, saying it unlocked her ability to write songs straight through—no breaks, no blocks, just pure emotional download. And honestly? You could feel that energy in every note. This wasn’t just a performance it was a release.

The finale we’re still thinking about

Of course, she closed with the song. The anthem. The one that altered brain chemistry: I Follow Rivers.

The crowd? Fully gone. Swaying, crying, probably texting their ex (don’t lie). And just when you thought it couldn’t get more cinematic, Lykke made her exit: lighting a cigarette mid disappearing off stage like she just ended a film scene. Cameras followed. The aura? Untouchable.

What’s next?

If you missed her desert moment (tragic), don’t spiral just yet. Lykke Li is set to perform next at the Fonda Theater in Los Angeles on April 14, 2026—and something tells us it’s going to sell out faster than your situationship’s excuses.

One thing’s clear: Lykke Li isn’t just back. She never really left. And Coachella Weekend One? Just her soft-launch into emotional world domination.

About the Author

Ersilia Pompilio is the Editor in Chief of SQUAD Magazine, a Palm Springs guide for bachelorettes and ladies who love to leisure. Ersilia has over two decades of experience in performing, producing live storytelling shows, and hosting a podcast, she has also taught storytelling classes and written professionally for several media outlets. Originally from Los Angeles, Ersilia is also a twenty-year resident of Palm Springs, California.