Stevie Nicks capped off the inaugural Daisy Chain Fields festival with an impromptu message to the crowd shortly after closing her duet performance of “Landslide” alongside pop star Olivia Rodrigo. The one-day event, held Saturday in Irvine, California, was created by Rodrigo to raise funds for women-focused charities and to highlight female musical talent, featuring artists such as Chappell Roan, Doechii, and the punk band Bikini Kill.

Addressing an audience of approximately 45,000, Nicks expressed admiration for Rodrigo’s achievement in organizing the festival, acknowledging the challenges of coordinating such a large-scale event. “I’m somewhat awestruck that she could do all this, because it’s so hard,” Nicks said, gesturing towards Rodrigo as the stage lights briefly came back on to allow her remarks.

Rodrigo, the festival’s headliner, delivered an 80-minute set showcasing songs from her latest album, "You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love." Her performance was marked by a blend of political poise and rock star energy, solidifying the event’s emphasis on empowering female artists. Several notable figures appeared as guest performers during her set, contributing to the festival’s collaborative spirit.

Philanthropist Melinda French Gates opened the concert with a pledge to match all funds raised by the festival. This commitment effectively doubled the contributions to a total of $20 million, benefiting ten nonprofit organizations including Planned Parenthood, the Center for Reproductive Rights, and the Black Mamas Matter Alliance.

Canadian singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan also took the stage with Rodrigo to perform two tracks, among them McLachlan’s emotional ballad “Angel.” McLachlan dedicated the song to Dolly Parton, praising her as “the biggest philanthropist in the history of country music.” Parton’s influence was noted by Rodrigo as well; McLachlan’s creation of the Lilith Fair tour in 1997 served as an inspiration for Daisy Chain Fields.

The festival reflected both a celebration of female musical talent and a commitment to supporting causes focused on women’s rights and health. By combining artistic performances with philanthropic goals, Rodrigo’s event aimed to establish a new model for feminist music festivals.