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Justin Bieber’s history with the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival reflects a trajectory from unexpected guest appearances to securing a coveted headlining slot. His involvement in the festival has consistently generated significant buzz, marking pivotal moments in his career and public life, particularly as he navigated health challenges and a hiatus from regular touring.
The Surprise Cameos (2022 & 2024)
Prior to his announced headlining set, Bieber was known for making high-profile, surprise appearances that temporarily stole the show.
- 2024 Performance: During Coachella Weekend 1 in April 2024, Bieber made a notable cameo during Nigerian singer Tems’ set. He joined Tems and Wizkid on stage to perform their massive Afrobeats hit, the “Essence” remix. This appearance was significant as it marked one of Bieber’s rare live performances following his diagnosis with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome in 2022, which had caused facial paralysis and led to the cancellation of his Justice tour. Fans noted he appeared healthy and energized during the brief but electric performance.
- 2022 Appearance: His previous impromptu visit occurred in April 2022, where he joined his collaborator Daniel Caesar to perform their hit track, “Peaches.” These surprise spots have historically showcased Bieber’s support for fellow artists and provided brief but thrilling moments for attendees.
The Upcoming Headliner Era (2026)
The narrative around Bieber’s Coachella involvement is set to reach a new peak with the announcement of his first-ever headlining performance at the festival in April 2026.
- Historic Paycheck: Reports indicate that Bieber is set to receive an estimated $10 million for his headlining spot, which would make him the highest-paid performer in the festival’s history. This massive fee underscores his continued global star power and the high expectations surrounding his return to a major festival stage.
- Preparation and Promotion: Leading up to the 2026 festival, Bieber has been giving fans an unusual look into his preparations. He launched a project on the livestreaming service Twitch, promising followers that he would be streaming “pretty much every day” as he and his team prepare the show. This move serves as a novel way for the artist to connect with his audience and build anticipation for what he promises will be “a hell of a show.”
- Context of Return: The 2026 headlining performance comes on the heels of new music releases, including his 21-track album SWAG and its follow-up, SWAG II. This full-scale festival set will mark his most significant return to the spotlight since his performance hiatus began, solidifying his transition back into active performing after a period focused on health and family life.
Bieber’s shift from a surprise guest to a headliner status at Coachella highlights the enduring impact of his music and his ability to command the world’s biggest stages, despite a recent period of reduced public appearances.
