Pinkpop, a long-standing music festival, is experiencing a shift in its audience and musical direction, with a focus on attracting younger attendees and showcasing contemporary pop acts. This year’s festival, though not sold out, features a lineup that blends established artists with up-and-coming female performers like Olivia Rodrigo and The Last Dinner Party.

The festival’s new management aims to rejuvenate the event by embracing a more feminine and youthful vibe. This transition is evident in the inclusion of artists like Tate McRae, whose energetic pop performance drew a crowd of enthusiastic young fans.

The inclusion of newer pop acts is a strategic move to secure the festival’s future, as booking legacy acts becomes increasingly difficult and expensive. While traditional Pinkpop attendees may grumble, the festival recognizes the need to evolve and cater to evolving tastes.

Despite the shift, rock music still has a presence at Pinkpop, with acts like Cypress Hill and Muse. However, the juxtaposition of genres, such as pairing punk-rock band Amyl and the Sniffers with Tate McRae, may not resonate with all attendees due to the festival’s layout.

Performances that stood out included Mika’s humorous and visually engaging show and Justin Timberlake’s funky set with a large band. Timberlake’s performance received mixed reviews, while Tate McRae’s high-energy choreography impressed many. Pommelien Thijs’s rise from a small stage last year to a main stage this year exemplifies the rapid ascent of young female artists.

Many are eagerly anticipating Olivia Rodrigo’s performance, expecting it to be a highlight of the festival. The anticipation is building, with the field already filling up with young fans sporting Olivia shirts, eager to experience her show.