Sarah McLachlan, Stevie Nicks and Alanis Morissette joined Olivia Rodrigo at Great Park in Irvine, California, for the inaugural Daisy Chain Fields, a festival created to celebrate women in music and raise money for organizations that support women and girls. Drawing inspiration from McLachlan’s Lilith Fair, the event drew about 45,000 people to a women-led bill that included Chappell Roan, Doechii, Mitski, Bikini Kill, Garbage and the Breeders.
Rodrigo saved the final set for herself, with the 80-minute performance bringing several of the festival’s most celebrated guests back to the stage. McLachlan joined her for “Building a Mystery” and “Angel,” which the pair dedicated to Dolly Parton after the country icon’s death earlier in the week. Morissette stepped in for Karen O, who withdrew because of a family emergency, and performed “Ironic” with Rodrigo. Nicks then joined Rodrigo for “Landslide,” which sparked a mass singalong across the crowd. Nicks also praised Rodrigo’s work and encouraged fans to support her.
Rodrigo also gave fans the first live performance of “Serena Joy,” her new song inspired by Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale.” The track joined songs from her latest album, “You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love,” alongside material from “Sour” and “Guts.”
The festival carried a substantial charitable goal from its launch. Rodrigo announced before the event that $10 million would go to 10 nonprofits that support women and girls. Melinda French Gates later pledged another $10 million, which brought the total to $20 million.
Daisy Chain Fields also drew praise for its relaxed, boho-inspired atmosphere, with attendees finding plenty of room for fashion, art and community amid the festival grounds. The California heat created some logistical challenges, though the crowd remained enthusiastic throughout the day.
Rodrigo closed out the event with announcement that the festival is set to return next year.