Full Breakdown
Olivia Rodrigo Applauds Justin Bieber's Nostalgic Coachella Set and Joins Addison Rae on Stage
4/25/2026, 5:21:40 AM
Core Event: Rodrigo Praises Bieber's Coachella Set and Performs Surprise Cameo
During the second weekend of Coachella, Justin Bieber headlined the Saturday main-stage, delivering his 2010 debut single “Baby” while searching YouTube videos of his pre-teen self on a laptop. In an Audacy Check In interview on April 23, Grammy-winning Gen-Z pop star Olivia Rodrigo described the performance as “epic” and “powerful.” Later that day, Rodrigo made a surprise appearance during Addison Rae’s set, performing her newly released single “Drop Dead.”
Background & Context: Coachella Highlights and Artist Interactions
Bieber’s set was identified by festival coverage as one of the most talked-about performances, featuring a duet with SZA and a serenade of Billie Eilish. The visual element of revisiting his younger self contributed to the set’s emotional tone. Rodrigo’s cameo occurred within Addison Rae’s set, reflecting the surprise appearance that took place at the festival.
Key Figures & Groups
- Olivia Rodrigo – Grammy-winning pop artist, Gen-Z music figure.
- Justin Bieber – Headlining performer, artist of the 2010 debut single “Baby.”
- Addison Rae – Performer whose set hosted Rodrigo’s surprise appearance.
- SZA – Artist who duetted with Bieber during the same weekend.
- Billie Eilish – Artist serenaded by Bieber on stage.
Official Statements & Responses
Rodrigo conveyed that Bieber’s use of a laptop to display his early-career videos added a nostalgic layer that resonated with the audience. She highlighted the emotional impact of hearing “Baby” performed in that context and praised the overall energy of the set. Regarding her appearance with Addison Rae, Rodrigo emphasized their long-standing friendship and described the decision to join the set as spontaneous, noting the song’s “fun and free” vibe.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I did see Bieber, it was so epic,” — Olivia Rodrigo, Grammy-winning pop star
- “When he sang ‘Baby,’ I think I lost my mind,” — Olivia Rodrigo
- “I thought it was so beautiful the way he did it with the laptop, too. It almost felt like he was paying homage to his younger self, having his younger self on screen, seeing him in real life so happy. It was really powerful.” — Olivia Rodrigo
- “We’re friends,” — Olivia Rodrigo, speaking about Addison Rae
- “We text all the time, and I text her, and I was like, ‘Maybe I could come out at Coachella. I feel like the song is so fun and free and very you.’ And she was so stoked.” — Olivia Rodrigo
Why It Matters
Rodrigo’s praise of Bieber’s set highlights the resonance of his nostalgic visual element among fellow performers. Her surprise cameo allowed her to showcase the newly released single “Drop Dead” to the Coachella audience.
What’s Next
Rodrigo’s upcoming album *You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love* is scheduled for release on June 12, following her Coachella appearance.
