the Killers Close Out Weekend One of ACL Fest with Energetic Performance, Nod to Texas Roots
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The Killers brought a high-energy close to Weekend One of the Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival on Sunday, October 15, 2023, stepping in as a late replacement for Doja Cat. The Las Vegas-born band delivered a set filled with fan favorites, including “Smile Like You Mean It” and their iconic anthem, “Mr. Brightside,” while also paying tribute to the festival’s history and the state of Texas. https://www.austinchronicle.com/events/2023/acl-music-festival/the-killers-close-out-acl-weekend-one-with-a-bang/
A Texas Tribute & Band history
Before launching into their hit song “Somebody Told Me,” The Killers acknowledged the “neck of the woods” thay were performing in, referencing the Texas music scene. This gesture resonated with the crowd, particularly given the tradition of performing Willie Nelson’s “Whiskey River” at ACL Fest. In 2023, Nelson himself was a featured guest, joining both chris Stapleton and Orville Peck on stage for duets. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/acl-festival-2023-weekend-one-highlights-1234834441/
Frontman Brandon Flowers,sporting a glittering pinstripe suit,also connected the band’s origins to the festival’s beginnings.ACL Fest debuted in 2002, the same year The Killers were forming in Las Vegas. flowers remarked on the importance of time and development,stating,”Everybody knows you need a little time to cook before you reach your full potential,right? You know what I believe? I believe that that is happening right now at Austin City [Limits] Music Festival.”
Last-Minute Headliners
The Killers’ appearance at ACL Fest came together quickly after Doja Cat withdrew from her headlining slot in late August 2023. Doja Cat explained her decision to fans, stating she would focus on finalizing her upcoming album rather than delivering a performance she felt wasn’t up to par. https://pitchfork.com/news/doja-cat-pulls-out-of-acl-festival-to-focus-on-new-album/
Encore Performance for Weekend Two
For those who missed The Killers’ energetic performance during Weekend One, they are scheduled to return to the American Express stage on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at 8:30 p.m. https://www.aclfestival.com/lineup/
Key Takeaways:
* Energetic Performance: The Killers delivered a high-energy set featuring hits like “Smile Like You Mean It” and “Mr. Brightside.”
* Texas Tribute: The band acknowledged and paid respect to the Texas music scene and ACL Fest traditions.
* Late replacement: The Killers stepped in as headliners after Doja Cat cancelled her appearance.
* Second Chance: Fans have another prospect to see The Killers perform during Weekend Two of ACL Fest.