Empire of the Sun’s recent Los Angeles performance has reignited intense calls for their Coachella 2026 return. Fans are glowing over memories of their 2017 Sahara Tent set—especially the iconic “Rage Tunnel” moment with triangle lights—and praising Luke Steele’s fiery energy last night, smashing guitars and opening with the fan-favorite anthem “Friends.”
Longtime supporters are pushing for them to close Coachella’s Outdoor Theatre next year, seeing it as the perfect follow-up slot after their Austin City Limits appearance. However, debate lingers on whether the Mojave Tent might be too small to hold their dynamic show. The hashtag #Empirechella2026 is already gaining traction among desert loyalists eager for this comeback.
Empire of the Sun’s Coachella history:
- 2011: Outdoor Theatre
- 2014: Sahara Tent (Weekends 1 & 2)
- 2017: Sahara Tent (Weekends 1 & 2)
Notable 2017 set highlights:
- Friends
- DNA
- Way to Go
- We Are the People
- Two Vines
- High and Low
- Swordfish Hotkiss Night
- Walking on a Dream
- Tiger by My Side
Currently on a 2025 North American tour supporting their album Ask That God, recent stops include the Greek Theatre, Berkeley (May 3), and Brooklyn Mirage, NYC (May 21). While nothing is official yet, the hype surrounding their latest LA show indicates fans are ready for Empire of the Sun to light up the desert stage once again next spring.
Source: r/coachella