Hollywood Park: A Vibrant Urban Playground
HARD Summer 2024 marked its debut at the sprawling Hollywood Park, nestled right next to the iconic SoFi Stadium. As the first festival of its kind at this location, expectations were high, and the event did not disappoint. The open-air setup, with stages spread across the massive venue, brought a unique energy to the festival. As the sun dipped below the horizon, airplanes soared overhead, painting a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable weekend. While the vastness of the venue meant long treks between stages, the breathtaking views and urban setting gave off heavy EDC-like vibes—a true cityscape spectacle.
Vibes That Took Us Back To The Roots
From the moment the gates opened, the festival exuded an electric atmosphere. The energy was palpable as festivalgoers from all walks of life embraced the PLUR (Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect) ethos that has long defined the scene. It was a reunion of sorts, reminiscent of the early days of HARD Summer when the community and the music came together in perfect harmony. Whether it was exchanging kandi with new friends or vibing to the beats under the setting sun, the sense of unity was ever-present. Even with a few minor issues, like the long lines and cramped restroom areas, the positive vibes overshadowed any inconveniences. The spirit of HARD Summer was alive and well, making every moment of the festival truly magical.
A Sonic Journey Worth Every Step
The music lineup was a festivalgoer’s dream. Acts like Mochakk, Sidepiece, and Zeds Dead brought the house down with electrifying performances. Additionally, Channel Tres and Elderbrook stole the show with their incredible sets. The open layout of the stages allowed for a dynamic auditory experience, where the music flowed freely across the venue. That said, the spread-out stages did present a challenge; a 10-15 minute walk between performances was a reality for those eager to catch their favorite acts. Some technical hiccups, like muffled vocals during Nelly Furtado‘s performance and Wax Motif‘s mic issues, were noticeable, but they didn’t detract from the overall experience. The festival organizers did a commendable job with the stage setups, but a little more polish on the technical side would elevate future editions.
Talent
One of the most unforgettable aspects of HARD Summer 2024 was the incredible lineup of musical talent that graced the stages. Even with a packed schedule, the moments I spent at each set were absolute highlights of the festival. Wax Motif delivered a high-energy performance that was made even more special by a surprise guest appearance from Ty Dolla $ign, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Elderbrook and Disclosure both brought their signature sounds, weaving a sonic tapestry that left everyone wanting more. Mochakk kept the energy high, and the Fisher + Chris Lake (Under Construction) set was pure perfection—hit after hit, keeping the vibes alive. Etari kicked off the festival with an exceptional opening set on day one, setting the tone for the weekend.
We even managed to make it to an after-party at Academy LA, where Sosa and Cloonee went b2b, delivering an experience that was nothing short of phenomenal. If they’re ever in town, I can’t recommend their performances enough. The newly added Jose Cuervo Locals Only Stage, along with the Boombox Art Car presented by Beatbox, were also standout additions, showcasing the vibrant local talent from Los Angeles. I caught sets from Cherry and Lechuga, who both impressed with their unique sounds. If you’re searching for new artists to follow, keep an ear out for them—they’re sure to make waves in the scene.
A Stellar Debut Amid Noise Concerns
While the festival was an overwhelming success, the loud beats and powerful bass didn’t go unnoticed by the surrounding community. Inglewood’s Mayor James Butts has already stated that future events at this location might face stricter regulations, especially after a surge of noise complaints. It’s a bittersweet note for HARD fans—this might have been the first and last time we experience HARD Summer at Hollywood Park. Despite this, the festival left an indelible mark on all who attended, and the memories will surely linger long after the echoes of the final bass drop fade.
Final Thoughts: Hoping For A Return
As a first-timer at HARD Summer, I was blown away by the sheer scale and energy of the festival. Additionaly, the urban environment added a fresh twist to the experience, and despite a few areas needing improvement, the weekend was nothing short of epic. Whether or not HARD Summer returns to Hollywood Park, one thing is certain—I’ll be back for more. Furthermore, here’s to hoping the stars align for another unforgettable chapter in the HARD Summer legacy. Lastly, for more information on all things HARD, be sure to check out their official website, here.
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