The annual concert celebration Lollapalooza turned 21 this year and took over the entire downtown of Chicago.Created by Jayne’s Addiction frontman Perry Ferrell in 1991 originally as a traveling act the music festival now resides in Chicago with Brazilian and now Israeli contingents.
A mashup of musical styles on various stages for three days makes for an experience many cannot compete against.
To kick things off there were several parties that then continued through the weekend. Starting off at the W Hotel Spin Magazine’s party gave an excellent view of the city while listening to tunes and having drinks. Samsung threw a luncheon and party at the Hotel Sax.
Every night at the Hard Rock the party didn’t stop until the break of dawn thanks to Rock the Vote.
There were a few gay music acts such as my friend JC & the Uptown Sound and Jonsi from Sigur Ros is always creative with a hefty sized crowd at the Red Bull Stage. But boy was it sunny! 
Florence + the Machine packed the Bud Light stage doubling the crowd at Ozzy and Black Sabbath brought in. 
On Saturday a sudden rainstorm evacuated the entire festival then shows started up again a few hours later. The mud pit that plagued last years Lolla returned to have attendees sliding around and even losing some clothes! Dance acts included Calvin Harris and Kaskade.
Frank Ocean had a moving set and a healthy fan base that couldn’t wait for him to start. 
People had to literally bounce from stage to stage and walk the long trek across the streets. Luckily Graham Elliott and the gang supplied lots of food and water stations really helped out.
Fun booths taught everyone about anything from recycling to HIV prevention.
Popular Red Hot Chili Peppers had hipsters singing followed by Santigold dancing with umbrellas on Perry’s stage. 
Jack White really rocked out to finish off the very long weekend before saying goodbye. Whether you like White, Black or Red there was something for everyone this year! For next years event keep posted on www.lollapalooza.com. 
