Rock band The Strokes have gone viral after delivering a bold and controversial message during their performance at Coachella 2026.
As they closed their set with their song “Oblivius,” the band displayed a powerful video montage on the big screens behind them, taking aim at the U.S. government and its history of foreign intervention.
The visuals reportedly included images of world leaders who were allegedly overthrown in operations linked to the CIA, alongside references to past global conflicts and political events.
The montage also featured footage tied to more recent tensions in the Middle East, including scenes of destruction in Iran and Gaza, which added to the intensity of the moment.
Frontman Julian Casablancas addressed the crowd during the performance, at one point asking, “What side are you standing on?”, as the visuals played behind him.
@asthtc.com The Strokes perform “Oblivius” from their second EP, Future Present Past, at Coachella Weekend 2 with a poignant backdrop highlighting assassinations and coups, Gaza’s last standing university reduced to rubble, and the racism and violence stitched into history. #thestrokes #coachella #fyp
The performance quickly spread online, with clips going viral and sparking a wave of reactions from fans, many divided over whether the band crossed a line or used their platform to make a powerful statement.
Some praised the group for speaking out on global issues, while others criticized the political nature of the set at a major music festival.
The moment marks one of the most talked-about performances of this year’s Coachella, with artists increasingly using the stage to address political and social issues.
The band has not issued any further official statement following the reaction, but the debate surrounding their performance continues to grow online.
