The 2018 Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee left a lasting impression on attendees, sparking lively discussions and fond reflections on r/festivals.
Key Takeaways from the 2018 Edition:
-
Eminem’s Show: Eminem’s headlining set was a standout for many, praised for relentless energy and his surprise collaboration with Royce da 5’9" on tracks like "Fast Lane." Some fans debated Royce’s addition, but Eminem’s performance was widely celebrated as a festival highlight.
-
Muse: Their performance was widely described as "crushing," delivering the powerful rock spectacle fans expected.
-
Sturgill Simpson: His set brought cinematic storytelling and emotional depth, making him a memorable act for those who caught him.
-
Bon Iver: Presented two distinct sets — a solo-focused show and a SuperJam featuring Francis and the Lights and Sylvan Esso — both noted for their transcendent, almost religious vibe.
-
Bassnectar: His performance divided opinions but was undeniably powerful and immersive.
-
Tom Petty SuperJam: A moving tribute led by members of My Morning Jacket and Wilco brought an emotional, heartfelt close for many.
Attendee memories also included rainy conditions dampening the closing Kaskade crowd, personal anecdotes like guest passes, and bittersweet farewells marking last Bonnaroo visits. While some compared the 2018 lineup unfavorably to earlier years, especially Eminem’s 2011 debut, the overall spirit celebrated the diverse artist roster and the unique festival experiences exclusive to Bonnaroo.
For full details on the 2018 lineup and performance recaps, see:
- Stereogum Bonnaroo 2018 Lineup
- Wikipedia 2018 Bonnaroo Festival
- PopMatters Bonnaroo Review
- WSUM Bonnaroo Feature
- PassTheAux Bonnaroo 2018
Bonnaroo 2018 reinforced the festival’s reputation for bold lineups and unforgettable sets that keep fans coming back year after year.
Source: r/festivals