Skream and Benga Pull Out of Coachella Lineup with Plans to Return in 2025 Edition

Days before Coachella Weekend One, artists Skream and Benga have announced a pivot to their originally planned performance in the desert.

Coachella, one of the largest festivals of the year with a highly diverse line up embarks on the 24th edition of the festival this weekend, weekend one. Just days before the first act is set to play, artists Skream and Benga have announced a change to the Coachella lineup.

Benga, hailing from the UK posted on Instagram that they will sadly not be able to attend as they ran into issues with their visa approval to head to the Indio Desert in California. Skream and Benga were set to B2B this weekend, and Benga expressed his disappointment with the last-minute change to the plan, as Coachella is a massive accomplishment for artists of all genres.

Coachella, in all its glory, is celebrating its 25th year this year, with its inception in 1999. The small festival in the desert has expanded to one of the major names in the music industry with two weekends of music, multiple stages, and performances from artists of all genres. Not only is it a musical haven, but it is also one of the elite festivals to attend bringing in a crowd from all walks of life; from the everyday human to A-list celebrities.

Benga wrote a statement concerning the short-notice cancelation, “Hey everyone, I’ve got some tough news to share- I won’t be able to make it to the upcoming Skream & Benga tour dates in the USA. The Vias process hit a snag at the very end and they are requesting additional information.” Benga mentioned that he is “absolutely gutted,”but “staying positive” as this was his return to music after a health hiatus. He writes, “I appreciate all the love and support you’ve shown me since I’ve been back.”

Skream will continue forward on the lineup holding down the fort for both artists and remaining on the Coachella lineup for weekend one. this is the harsh reality for many artists trying to play stateside, and devastating for the talented Benga and his counterpart, Skream. The duo will be missed but the show must go on. Here’s hoping that Benga can make his way to the States sooner than later!