At Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, every lineup tells a story. 

Some artists arrive in the middle of a career resurgence, while others bring reunion tours, milestone performances or unique festival experiences. From Kesha’s pop comeback to Alabama Shakes’ return to the stage, these are some of the biggest music storylines to follow at Bonnaroo 2026.

Kesha’s return to the spotlight

Few artists on the Bonnaroo lineup arrive with a stronger comeback story than Kesha. After spending much of the 2010s engaged in legal battles that overshadowed her music, the pop star has reemerged as a cultural force, reclaiming ownership of her career and image. Her recent performances have gone viral — particularly after changing the lyrics of her hit song “TiK ToK” from “feeling like P. Diddy” to “f— P. Diddy” — drawing renewed attention from younger listeners. Kesha will not only headline but also host SUPERJÂM ESOTÉRICA: THE ALCHEMY OF POP, making her one of the festival’s most visible artists.

Noah Kahan’s mental health mission

In recent years, Noah Kahan has risen from unknown folk singer-songwriter to festival headliner. Following the breakout success of “Stick Season,” fans know Kahan not only for his music but also for his advocacy surrounding mental health through the Busyhead Project. The nonprofit supports mental health organizations and resources, and its presence at Bonnaroo reflects Kahan’s growing influence beyond music. For local fans, the festival also serves as the only Tennessee stop for his current tour.

Alabama Shakes’ reunion

When Alabama Shakes went on hiatus in 2018, many fans were unsure whether the Grammy-winning band would ever resurface. Years later, the group’s reunion has become one of the most prevalent comeback stories in modern rock. Led by powerhouse vocalist Brittany Howard, Alabama Shakes helped define Southern rock and blues-inspired alternative music throughout the 2010s. Their appearance at Bonnaroo gives longtime fans a chance to reconnect with a beloved band while introducing newer audiences to one of the era’s most influential groups.

Skrillex and Bonnaroo’s evolution

More than a decade after becoming the face of dubstep, Skrillex remains one of electronic music’s most influential artists. His headline appearance also reflects the changing identity of Bonnaroo itself. Previously known primarily for jam bands and rock acts, the festival has evolved into a genre-spanning event where electronic music plays a major role. Skrillex’s performance serves as a reminder of how both the artist and the festival have adapted while remaining relevant.

The Strokes’ lasting influence

Few bands have shaped modern indie rock like The Strokes. Emerging from New York City’s rock revival, the band influenced countless artists who followed — including Arctic Monkeys, Paramore and fellow ‘Roo performer Wet Leg. The band’s Bonnaroo appearance gives festivalgoers a chance to see one of the defining acts of the century while providing a connection to the festival’s longstanding rock roots. For many fans, it may be a rare opportunity to catch the group live. Also, the band’s newest album comes out just weeks after the festival on June 26.

Teddy Swims’ unconventional path to stardom

Before topping charts and selling out venues, Teddy Swims built an audience through cover songs posted online. His powerful voice and genre-blending style helped him develop a loyal following before breaking into the mainstream. Over the past few years, Swims has transformed from an internet success story into one of music’s fastest-rising stars. His Bonnaroo appearance highlights a modern path to fame built through direct engagement with listeners.

Role Model’s rapid rise

Tucker Pillsbury, better known as Role Model, has quickly become one of the fastest-growing names in pop music. Fueled by relatable songwriting, social media engagement and a growing live-performance reputation, the singer has emerged as a major draw among younger listeners. His running onstage gags have elevated his social media presence and directly tied his performances to virality. His Bonnaroo performance places him alongside some of the industry’s biggest names while showcasing the next generation of artists finding success through fan-driven growth.

Yungblud’s community-focused fanbase

Yungblud has built his career around more than just rock and hip-hop music. The British artist has cultivated a devoted following through activism, advocacy and direct engagement with fans. His concerts often feel more like communal gatherings than traditional performances, making him a natural fit for Bonnaroo’s culture of connection and inclusivity. The crowd at his set is expected to be among the festival’s most energetic.

Aly & AJ’s second act

Many fans will always associate Aly & AJ with Disney Channel and the duo’s mid-2000s pop hits. In recent years, however, the sisters have successfully reinvented themselves as independent artists, earning critical acclaim for their dramatic shift and their folk and indie-pop sound. Their resurgence has been aided by a new generation of listeners discovering tracks like “Potential Breakup Song” through social media. At Bonnaroo, Aly & AJ represent both nostalgia and reinvention.

Weird Al’s lasting legacy

Among Bonnaroo’s many rock, pop and electronic acts, “Weird Al” Yankovic stands out as one of the festival’s most unconventional performers. His special “Bigger & Weirder Roovue” encapsulates the playful spirit that has long distinguished Bonnaroo from other music festivals. While some attendees may arrive for the comedy, others will recognize a performer whose career has outlasted many of the artists he has parodied.