Lola Young Shines at SXSW: Grammy Winner Delivers Powerful Performance
Lola Young is having a moment. Fresh off a Grammy win for Best Pop Solo Performance for her breakout hit “Messy,” the British singer-songwriter delivered a captivating performance at Rolling Stone’s Future of Music showcase at SXSW this month, proving why the industry – and fans – are paying attention. The showcase marked Young’s first U.S. Performance since September, following a brief health scare at the All Things Go festival, and served as a powerful re-introduction to an American audience.
The 25-year-old, who first emerged in 2023, isn’t easily categorized. She blends brutally honest, often vulnerable lyrics with a pop sensibility that ranges from raw, stream-of-consciousness expression to deeply introspective songwriting. Her set in Austin, Texas, showcased that versatility, running through tracks from both her 2024 album, This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway, and her more recent work.
A Setlist Built on Honesty and Connection
Young’s 14-song set kicked off with “Dealer,” setting a soulful tone that carried through the night. She followed with a string of tracks from I’m Only F**king Myself, including “Sad Sob Story! :)”, “Post Sex Clarity,” “Walk All Over You,” “Not Like That Anymore,” “Why Do I Sense Better When I Hurt You?,” and “Spiders.” But it was her earlier material that resonated most deeply with the crowd. Songs like “Big Brown Eyes,” “Walk On By,” “You Noticed,” “Conceited,” and, of course, “Messy” offered an intimate glimpse into Young’s world, inviting listeners into her head and heart. Fans lined up for hours, according to an Instagram post, to secure a spot at the front of the Moody Theater at ACL Live.
The performance wasn’t just about the music; it was about connection. During “One Thing,” the audience illuminated the venue with a sea of phone flashlights, while “Walk On By” prompted deafening cheers as Young’s powerful vocals filled the room.
A Moment of Reflection
Midway through the display, Young paused to share a poem she had written, a raw and honest reflection on the state of the world. “There is a lot of shit happening … in this world, that right now I’m scared to call ours,” she shared with the audience. She continued, expressing her anxieties and fears, but ultimately framing art as an act of rebellion and a source of hope. “We must not let the powers that be censor who we are,” she declared, a sentiment that clearly resonated with the crowd.
This willingness to be vulnerable and address tough themes is a hallmark of Young’s artistry. Her recent Rolling Stone cover story details her recent struggles and her journey back to the stage, a comeback she describes as “a moment I’ll remember.”
From Onstage Collapse to Grammy Glory
Young’s path to this moment hasn’t been without its challenges. She experienced an onstage collapse during the All Things Go festival in September, an incident that understandably raised concerns. However, she has since spoken openly about her recovery and her determination to continue creating music. The Grammy win for “Messy” – a song that initially gained traction on TikTok – served as a powerful validation of her talent and resilience. You can watch her win here.
The Future Looks Bright
Young closed her set with “Messy,” encouraging the audience to sing along and participate in the song’s intricate lyrics. The energy in the room was electric, a testament to the connection she has forged with her fans. Her performance at the Future of Music showcase wasn’t just a concert; it was a statement. It was a declaration that Lola Young is a force to be reckoned with, an artist who is unafraid to be herself, and a voice that deserves to be heard.
Rolling Stone’s Future of Music showcase also featured performances from Sofia and the Antoinettes, Saint Harrison, and Susanna Joffe, highlighting a diverse range of emerging talent. The event, which followed the publication of the Future 25 list, underscores the magazine’s commitment to identifying and championing the next generation of musical innovators.
With a Grammy under her belt, a critically acclaimed album, and a growing fanbase, Lola Young is poised for even greater success. Her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level, combined with her undeniable talent, suggests a long and promising career ahead.