Pinkpop is undergoing a transformation, attracting a younger and more feminine audience, but this shift isn’t without its critics among the festival’s traditional attendees. The festival features contemporary pop acts such as Olivia Rodrigo and Tate McRae.

This year’s Pinkpop festival is experiencing lower attendance than expected, with an estimated 70,000 fewer visitors. This is despite a lineup that includes established artists and rising stars.

The inclusion of younger, female artists has sparked debate among the long-time Pinkpop fans. Some attendees, accustomed to classic rock acts like Bruce Springsteen and Metallica, have expressed dissatisfaction with the new direction. They view headliners like Olivia Rodrigo, who at 22 has only released two albums, as a departure from the festival’s roots.

Despite the grumbling from some, Pinkpop’s new management believes this change is essential for the festival’s future. The goal is to attract a new generation of music lovers who are eager to embrace contemporary pop music. The success of artists such as Tate McRae, whose energetic performance resonated with a young, enthusiastic crowd, is viewed as a sign that Pinkpop is on the right track.

The festival is looking toward the future by securing top pop names. The event organizers recognize the difficulty in booking legacy acts like U2 and Paul McCartney, which motivates the festival to seek out current pop icons.

Performances from acts like Mika and Justin Timberlake offered diverse experiences. Mika’s performance was praised for its humor and elaborate stage production, while Timberlake’s show, featuring a 20-piece band, divided opinions. Tate McRae’s high-energy choreography was also a talking point, showcasing the evolving performance styles at Pinkpop.

Many are anticipating Olivia Rodrigo’s performance as a potential highlight of the festival. Rodrigo has attracted a large crowd of young fans.