Forty-seven years after the first edition of the festival, a Latin artist took the main stage as the main attraction. Karol G ran the show on Sunday, April 12, 2026, in the desert of Indio, at Califórnia.
The Colombian presented a performance lasting around 90 minutes with synchronized choreography, costume changes and elements that highlighted Latin culture. The audience followed the hits amid an elaborate setting that resembled a cave-shaped structure. The presentation was delayed by around 30 minutes due to technical adjustments, but maintained the final time agreed with the festival.
Consecration as the first Latin headliner
Karol G wore clothes in the colors of the Colômbia flag when declaring the night’s milestone. Ela said his full name, Carolina Giraldo, and remembered the origin of Medellín. The moment generated screams from the audience present.
The artist dedicated the performance to the Latino community and immigrants facing difficulties in Estados Unidos. Ela asked people to raise flags and sing from the heart. The speech transformed part of the show into a celebration of unity and resilience.
The festival registered the presence of other Latin artists in the program, such as Bad Bunny, Anitta and Becky G. Karol G joined the list of headliners alongside names like Beyoncé and Billie Eilish. Críticos highlighted the quality of the production and the energy transmitted throughout the set.
Removing verses in known partnership
During the performance of Tusa, Karol G performed a salsa version of the track released in 2021. The performance did not include the original verses of Nicki Minaj. The audience still sang excerpts from the rapper’s part.
The choice occurred amid previous statements by Nicki Minaj on social issues. Outros Artists at the festival also used the stage for immigration-related messages. The adapted version maintained the dancing rhythm and connection with the audience.
Presence of Brazilian funk in the repertoire
Karol G included a remix of Tá Ok with Dennis, MC Kevin, Chris and Maluma. The performance brought elements of funk in Portuguese and Spanish.
Another track from the album Tropicoqueta, Bandida Entrenada, also entered the set with Brazilian influences. The audience reacted excitedly to the beats. Esses Excerpts reinforced the mix of Latin rhythms and the connection with different audiences.
- Tá Ok remix featuring Brazilian and Latin artists
- Bandida Entrenada in a version that mixes Spanish and Portuguese
- Intense choreography during the funk parts
- Euphoric reactions from the public upon recognizing the rhythms
Tributes and guests on stage
The Colombian received Becky G on stage for a version of Mamiii with a mariachi touch. Becky G ended his participation with statements of support for immigrants and cheers to México and Colômbia.
Wisin performed a string of reggaeton hits. Greg Gonzalez, from Cigarettes After Sex, participated in the premiere of a new song. The set also paid tribute to Gloria Estefan with the song Mi Tierra.
A female mariachi band accompanied parts of the show. The guests helped build a narrative of collective celebration of Latin roots. Costume changes occurred throughout the participations.
Exciting ending despite the set cuts
The show was cut to respect the festival’s schedule. Faixas like Bichota and Una Noche and Medellín did not enter the presentation. Karol G explained the situation to the public before moving on.
The night ended with Provenza, from the album Mañana Será Bonito. The moment generated emotion among the fans who followed until the end. The stage structure allowed visual effects and interactions with the dancers even in the final section.
Karol G’s performance reinforced the presence of Latin music at major international festivals. The artist delivered consistent vocals and precise choreography alongside a large team of dancers.
