Pinkpop festival in the Netherlands is currently underway, facing challenges with heat and attendance, but embracing a shift towards a younger, more female-centric lineup. The festival features headliners like Olivia Rodrigo, Justin Timberlake, and Muse, while also showcasing up-and-coming artists such as Tate McRae and The Last Dinner Party.

The festival is experiencing lower-than-expected attendance, possibly due to a lineup that may not fully resonate with the traditional Pinkpop crowd, accustomed to classic rock acts like Bruce Springsteen and Metallica. The festival’s new, young management team aims to steer Pinkpop in a fresh direction, highlighting contemporary pop music and attracting a younger demographic.

Despite some divided opinions, Justin Timberlake’s performance was praised for its funkiness and extensive band, while Tate McRae’s energetic pop show drew enthusiasm from a young audience. The festival’s diverse lineup includes a mix of genres, from punk-rock to electronic, though the combination of acts may not always be seamless. The move towards younger, more female artists like Olivia Rodrigo, who is expected to deliver a standout performance, is seen as a necessary step for Pinkpop to remain relevant and attract future generations of music fans.