Pitchfork Music Festival returns to Chicago’s Union Park this weekend for its 16th edition. The festival is a favorite for music fans spanning indie rock, hip hop, jazz, electronic music, and more.
While Pitchfork’s editorial functions have largely moved, the homegrown festival has its roots in Chicago and always features local talent. Don’t miss these must-see Chicago artists when you hit the festival July 15-17!
Jeff Parker & the New Breed
Jeff Parker doesn’t live in Chicago anymore, nor was he born here. Yet his musical identity as a member of the post-rock group Tortoise and seven solo albums are inextricably linked to his years in Chicago in the 1990s and 2000s.
Arrive to the festival early on Saturday to catch Parker on the Green Stage. The veteran’s experimental jazz will set the right vibes for a groovy day. Check out my previous interview with Parker here.
Saturday, July 16; Green Stage 1 p.m.
CupcakKe
After Parker’s set, head to the Red Stage to turn things up a few notches with rapper CupcakKe. Elizabeth Eden Harris is sure to get the party started with her brazen performance and sexually explicit lyrics. Beyond her erotic verses, the Greater Grand Crossing native tackles topics like homelessness, sexual assault, and gay rights.
Saturday, July 16; Red Stage 1:45 p.m.
Kaina
Kaina’s sunny R&B was made for Sunday festival afternoons. The first-generation Latina, and native Chicagoan covers themes like identity, legacy, and love with soulful smoothness. With salsa, pop, and jazz influences, Kaina’s playful sound delivers a hint of nostalgia with a take that’s undeniably fresh.
Sunday, July 17; Green Stage 2:30 p.m.
Noname
It will be a happy homecoming on Sunday afternoon for Noname’s fans. Fatimah Warner may have decamped to LA, but Chicago is in the Bronzeville native’s musical DNA. The rapper came up in the city’s poetry slams and collabs with the likes of Chance the Rapper, Mick Jenkins, and Jamila Woods. Her spoken word verses spill over jazz and soul-influenced beats tackling identity and social activism.
Sunday, July 17; Red Stage 5:15 p.m.
Jessica Mlinaric founded Urban Explorer in 2010 to inspire curious travelers by highlighting history, culture, and hidden gems in Chicago and beyond. She is the author of ‘Secret Chicago’ and ‘Chicago Scavenger.’ Jessica has visited 20+ countries and 30+ U.S. states. She has more than 16 years of experience as a marketing strategist and works as a freelance writer and photographer.
