Charli XCX joins The Strokes for ‘Take It Or Leave It’ at Outside Lands 2026

The intersection of music, fashion, and modern stardom often feels like a whirlwind—but sometimes, at the right moment, that chaos coalesces into pure magic. That’s exactly what happened last night at Outside Lands in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, where indie legends The Strokes and pop icon Charli XCX delivered a performance that felt less like a concert and more like a cultural collision.

Midway through The Strokes’ set, frontman Julian Casablancas took center stage to introduce his guest. He didn’t just welcome Charli XCX; he celebrated her position in the arena of fame. Calling her a “superstar” and noting that she was a “giant pop star in our defence,” Casablancas highlighted how effortlessly she navigated the intensity of celebrity.

The connection between the two artists felt electric, especially as they transitioned into a shared moment, playing The Strokes’ classic track, ‘Take It Or Leave It‘, trading vocals with Charli XCX. This wasn’t just a musical collaboration; it was a nod to the enduring legacy of rock while embracing contemporary pop energy.

This shared spotlight felt deeply serendipitous. Casablancas remarked on the timing of their paths, suggesting that fame has never hit someone at a better time because Charli XCX has been around long enough to handle the moment with both awareness and humility. He described her handling of the social landscape as incredibly cool.

Charli herself reflected on her admiration for The Strokes, describing them as a dance band steeped in New York’s hardcore energy. She felt that Julian Casablancas understood how to capture that specific kind of intense, raw energy in music and live performance.

Their paths have already crossed before the festival. The collaboration stems from previous work, including Casablancas’ involvement in Charli XCX’s 2024 remix album, which showcases a deeper creative bond between them. Both artists have recently released highly acclaimed works that reflect their unique perspectives on contemporary culture and art.

The music celebrated at Outside Lands was a testament to this dynamic—a perfect blend of timeless rock sensibility and cutting-edge pop innovation, proving that even in the age of hyper-contemporary audiences, true artistic connection remains profoundly relevant and timeless.