Gov Ball 2024 was for the girls, gays, and theys. With Chappell Roan, Reneé Rapp, G Flip, Kevin Abstract, Doechii, Ryan Beatty, Donna Missal, and more, Gov Ball felt like the perfect festival to happen in NYC during Pride Month.
When I arrived at the Sunday G Flip show, it was filled with obvious Chappell Roan fans (follow the pink!) as they used their time before Chappell’s set. G Flip ended up bringing out Lauren Sanderson to perform “GAY 4 ME” as the two jumped around stage while both donning Pride flags.
Last that day on the main stage, we got Chappell Roan’s (now) iconic Statue of Liberty outfit and performance. Witnessing her come out of the Big Apple as it was turned around and her outfit was revealed, it really felt like being a part of pop culture and music history. I love a pop star that gives it her all.
Then right after Chappell was Reneé Rapp, our favorite Mean Girl. She put on a great show and charmed the crowd. Putting Chappell and Reneé was an obvious choice and the crowd loved it. The only way it could’ve been more perfect is if Victoria Monét didn’t have to cancel as she was supposed to perform between Chappell and Reneé.
Overall, Gov Ball weekend felt inclusive and celebratory. White it sometimes seems we’re headed backwards as a country in terms of LGBTQ+ rights, these incredible performances from queer artists and the passion their fans showed proved that we just might be alright.