Pinkpop is undergoing a significant shift by targeting a younger, more feminine audience, as evidenced by the prominence of artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Tate McRae at this year’s festival. However, this change in direction may be contributing to lower-than-expected attendance figures.

While Pinkpop traditionally attracts a crowd of older rock enthusiasts, the festival’s new management is actively steering it towards a younger demographic. This strategy is reflected in the lineup, which features up-and-coming female artists and pop acts.

The focus on younger artists has seemingly alienated some of the traditional Pinkpop attendees. Some attendees express dissatisfaction with the increasing emphasis on pop music over classic rock acts.

Despite the mixed reactions, there’s a recognition that embracing younger audiences is crucial for the festival’s long-term survival. The difficulty of booking legacy acts like U2 and Paul McCartney necessitates a shift towards newer talent.

Performances from artists like Mika, Justin Timberlake and Tate McRae have generated buzz, with Timberlake’s funky show and McRae’s high-energy choreography standing out.

Looking ahead, the Olivia Rodrigo show is highly anticipated, with expectations of a strong performance and a vibrant atmosphere as the evening cools down.