The very first Coachella Festival was held over the course of two days in October 1999. It was developed by Rick Van Santen and Paul Tolett of Goldenvoice, who wanted to start a music festival similar to British and European festivals such as Glastonbury and Roskilde. The headliners that first year were: Beck, the Chemical Brothers, Tool, Morrissey, and Rage Against the Machine.

Though well regarded by critics and music lovers, it was almost just a footnote in music history due to poor ticket sales, disorganization and record heat. The festival was not considered a financial (or otherwise) success, but Rick and Paul persevered. After selling Goldenvoice to AEG in 2001, things really got rolling and Coachella eventually developed into the world famous behemoth it is today. Sadly, Rick passed away in 2004, but he did get to see Coachella develop into the premier music festival it has become.

So, are you festival ready? Will you be braving the crowds, the heat, the wind and the $$$? If you are, Los Angeles Public Library has you covered. If you want to sit back in your living room and just listen to the music without all the rest, we can help with that too. Between Freegal and Hoopla, you can listen to just about every band playing at Coachella for free!