Stagecoach 2017 Lineup to Feature Willie Nelson, Shania Twain, Kenny Chesney, Dierks Bentley and Cyndi Lauper

Amanda Nolan

When country music lovers storm the Empire Polo Club grounds in Indio late April for the Stagecoach Country Music Festival, they’ll get a weekend of alt-country, bluegrass, up-and-comers, and a few big stars. Dierks Bentley takes the Friday headlining spot. There is a good chance Bentley could be joined on the stage by Elle King, who is also slated for the first night, as their duet “Different for Girls,” is the second single off of Bentley’s “Black” album. Shania Twain tops the Saturday lineup. Even though her last album was 2002’s “Up!,” Twain has been on the wish list for many Stagecoach attendees. Her hits “Any Man of Mine,” and “That Don’t Impress Me Much” shot the singer to crossover success in the ‘90s, and her successful residency in Las Vegas and 2015 tour showed the country diva is still a force.  

Kenny Chesney returns for the fourth time as a headliner (including the inaugural Stagecoach a decade ago). The popular entertainer is currently promoting his latest album “Cosmic Hallelujah.” Other acts include Maren Morris, Brett Eldridge, Cole Swindell, Kip Moore, Thomas Rhett, Cam, Dan + Shay, LANco, and Maddie & Tae. Bigger names are Willie Nelson and Family, Wynonna & The Big Noise, and rock n’ roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis will most likely draw big crowds on the side stages.

Some non-country acts are also on the bill: Festivalgoers can also enjoy a little classic rock with groups 38 Special (“Hold on Loosely”) and The Zombies (“Time of the Season”) also performing. Joining the country family are quirky surprises Cyndi Lauper (who released an album of country covers, “Detour”) and Kiefer Sutherland. Americana and alternative country will be represented with Margo Price, Justin Townes Earle, Anderson East, and John Doe from the band X. Rock and bluegrass converge with The HillBenders, presenting “The Who’s Tommy: A Bluegrass Opry.”

Stagecoach attendees can roam around the grounds to different stages, ride the giant ferris wheel, shop the vendors, and party at the Honkytonk Dance Hall. There’s a wide selection of barbecue and other tasty refreshments. Different passes are available, from general admission to more premium seating and packages.

The 2017 Stagecoach Festival will take place April 28-30 at the Empire Polo Club in Indio. Tickets are here.