New Book ‘Desert Dreams’ Examines Coachella’s Cultural Impact

A new book titled ‘Desert Dreams’ by author and journalist Katie Bain offers an in-depth exploration of the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, highlighting its cultural significance and lasting impact on the music festival landscape. Bain, who has attended the festival since its inception, reflects on her experiences and the evolution of Coachella over the years.

Bain’s book features striking imagery paired with her insightful commentary, totaling around 30,000 words. She delves into the reasons why Coachella has become a global phenomenon, particularly emphasizing the role of livestreaming in broadening its audience. “The livestream has become a key component to why Coachella is a global fascination,” Bain notes.

Her first visit to Coachella was in 2008, after the announcement of Prince as a headliner. Since then, Bain has returned numerous times, primarily in a professional capacity, covering artists and events for various media outlets. Reflecting on her experiences, she acknowledges the privilege of attending such a renowned festival: “It’s a privileged luxury to get to go to Coachella.”

Bain’s journey through music festivals began earlier, with her first significant festival experience at Bonnaroo in 2005. She recalls the unique atmosphere, saying, “I liked that you’re basically at a party and a hang session for three days.” This experience sparked her passion for music festivals, laying the groundwork for her future coverage of Coachella.

Throughout her years of attendance, Bain has witnessed transformative moments and performances. She recounts notable experiences, such as watching Jack White deliver an unforgettable show. “That was one of the best shows I’ve ever seen at Coachella,” she states, underscoring her deep connection to the festival.

While she embraces the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional lineups, Bain also acknowledges the challenges that come with attending such a large-scale event. Parking, for instance, can be a significant hurdle. She notes that even with access to VIP parking since 2018, the experience can still be time-consuming: “The closer you are to the gate, the more cars have piled up on top of you.”

Parking woes aside, Bain’s insights extend to the evolving nature of festival culture, including the increasing presence of smartphones. Reflecting on this change, she admits, “I miss when there were fewer phones, but it’s just part of the landscape now.” She highlights improvements in festival cell coverage, attributing these advancements to the demands of social media.

Bain’s book also offers practical advice for festival-goers. She emphasizes the importance of preparation, suggesting attendees stock up on snacks and drinks for the long days ahead. “Leave a fresh Gatorade and snacks in your car because it’s going to take a while to get out,” she advises. Comfort is key, as she emphasizes wearing suitable footwear and dressing appropriately for the changing temperatures in the desert.

As Coachella continues to evolve, Bain’s reflections and observations serve as a reminder of the festival’s profound influence on music and culture. Her deep affection for the event is palpable, yet she balances it with a critical eye, acknowledging both its highs and lows. In ‘Desert Dreams’, she captures the essence of an event that has defined the North American music festival experience for millions.