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Kanye West has had a long history with the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. From headlining performances to surprise shows, his appearance at the festival has always been a point of contention. Recently, a video clip of one of his previous performances went viral on the internet, causing fans to recall his moments on the Coachella stage.
The vintage clip emerged for the 2025 Coachella edition. Enthusiasts started posting Kanye's best memories, and old discussions about how he impacted Coachella began yet again. With many still experiencing this year's lineup, people are increasingly talking about Kanye's earlier Coachella moments.
Kanye West headlined Coachella in 2011 with a set that was widely acclaimed. He also guested during A$AP Rocky's set in 2016 and conducted a special Sunday Service performance in 2019. He was due to headline in 2022 but withdrew at the last moment.
Rapper Azealia Banks also joined the conversation. She retweeted the clip and added,
“Ok why have I never seen this c*nty dip from miss kenya…. WOOORK NIECE,” showing her excitement and approval of Kanye’s performance style.
Many fans took to X to express their views on the video, which surfaced online.
"This was the best Coachella" said a fan on X
"This the only Coachella people will remember." said another fan
"His voice sounds so good live, not every rapper has that ability" remarked another fan
"GOAT" said a fan on X
"Real stage presence" remarked a fan
When did Kanye West first perform at Coachella?
Kanye West first headlined Coachella in 2011. His performance took place on the closing night of the event. It came only months prior to the release of his joint album Watch the Throne with Jay-Z.
This show was one of Kanye's largest solo live performances at the time. The setlist consisted of songs from his albums My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Graduation, and 808s & Heartbreak. The performance was well-structured and had good visuals and stage design.
Numerous fans still hold the 2011 performance as a highlight in Coachella's history. Even years after more than a decade, videos of that evening are still being posted online. The performance is routinely included on the greatest performances in Coachella's history.
On what other occasions did Kanye West appear at Coachella?
Kanye was back at Coachella in 2016. This time, he was not as a headliner but as a guest appearance. On April 15, 2016, he surprised everyone when he appeared on stage during A$AP Rocky's performance. Nevertheless, his act was interrupted as his microphone was turned off by organizers because time ran out. Supporters were displeased, yet the short encounter made headlines as well.
In 2019, Kanye came back to Coachella in a unique manner. He performed a special Sunday Service on Easter Sunday. It was a gospel-inspired set that took place early in the morning. The performance included music, choir performances, and a huge audience.
Why didn’t Kanye West perform in 2022?
Kanye West was booked to top the bill at Coachella in 2022. He was to perform on April 17 and April 24. He was in the official lineup, and fans were eagerly anticipating it. But just before the festival got underway, Kanye withdrew. He didn't explain much, but reports indicated that it was for personal reasons.
His withdrawal came following a spate of public controversy and media scrutiny. The announcement distressed many of his fans. Some had purchased tickets solely to watch him perform. Organizers were forced to look for a last-minute replacement headliner.
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Kanye West has taken the stage at Coachella in various capacities throughout the years. From a headlining set in 2011 to a surprise appearance in 2016 and a special Sunday Service in 2019, his performances have remained etched in fans' minds. Although he dropped out of the 2022 lineup, his influence on the festival is still a hot topic.
And now, with the 2025 festival taking place and a viral video going around, fans are again discussing Kanye's stint at Coachella. Whether he returns or not, his previous performances have already become a part of Coachella history.
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