Justin Bieber’s unconventional Coachella 2026 set is generating buzz not only for festival-goers and Beliebers, but also among his fellow music stars.
The Canadian superstar headlined the festival’s main stage on its second night with a hit-filled set that took festival-goers on a stroll down memory lane as he showcased some of his early YouTube videos.
Midway through the performance, Justin, who first performed his latest songs including “All I Can Take,” “Speed Demon,” “Butterflies,” "Go Baby", and "Walking Away", signaled a turning point in his performance.
“Feels like we gotta take you guys on a bit of a journey,” he said. “You guys remember this song?”
That moment sparked one of the night’s most talked-about elements, as Justin took a full-on YouTube streaming dive. Sitting in front of a laptop onstage, he played music videos of his early hits, including “Baby,” “Never Say Never,” and “Beauty and a Beat,” singing along with his younger self as fans erupted in nostalgia.
As Justin became his own DJ of his performance, ditching elaborate production for a more stripped-back, almost intimate approach, many fans and fellow celebrities took to social media to share mixed reactions.
Swedish pop star Zara Larsson could not help but laugh at the unique setup. She shared a TikTok clip of herself watching a livestream of Justin’s set as he played old videos on his laptop for the audience.
“It’s giving lets smoke and watch YouTube,” Zara wrote in the clip.
“He’s in my dream blunt rotation,” she added in the caption.
Meanwhile, Katy Perry delivered one of the most talked-about reactions. In an Instagram post, the “Roar” singer poked fun at Justin’s onstage browsing.
“Thank God he has Premium. I don’t wanna see no ads,” Katy said.
READ: Justin Bieber brings nostalgia to Coachella that made Beliebers emotional
She also shared a TikTok video capturing her live reaction during the performance, where she was seen screaming alongside fans. Her excitement peaked when Justin began performing “Baby,” prompting her to jump and cheer along with the crowd. Many online found both hilarious and relatable.
Beyond humor, the night also delivered sweet moments, especially for Justin’s wife, Hailey Bieber. She and their son Jack Blues received an emotional shoutout onstage.
Singing his 2025 track “Everything Hallelujah,” Justin looked into the camera and expressed gratitude for his family.
“Mom and Dad, hallelujah,” he sang. “Hailey babe, hallelujah. Baby Jack, hallelujah.”
The camera later panned to Hailey in the crowd, who blew her husband a kiss before waving to cheering fans.
Producer and songwriter Finneas O'Connell, the older brother of Billie Eillish, also shared how deeply the performance moved him.
“Just gotta say – haven't been moved at a concert like I was at the Bieber set in a long time – so emotional and beautiful,” he wrote.
“voice 10/10, so present in the moment with us, the audience. Anyone going weekend 2 is so lucky,” he continued.
American singer-rapper Lizzo offered a more introspective take, reflecting on Justin’s artistic growth.
“I watched a popstar who grew up in front of the world fully transcend into his artistry last night. I watched someone who gave us his all, his whole life... finally nourish his self.”
“I have no pictures or videos because I was fully present in the moment. Justin invited us and whoever chose to come with him was blessed with a beautiful ride. When you use your gift for God, it will make people uncomfortable. But that’s OK because the ones who stick beside you will feel the love,” she wrote.
Filipino celebrities were equally captivated by the performance. Actress Kylie Padilla shared a reflective post on Instagram Stories.
“Hope this healed you Justin,” her reshared post read.
Meanwhile, Leon Barretto, who attended the show with KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza, described the experience as unforgettable.
“will never forget this experience...” he wrote.
READ: Leon Barretto on KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza Coachella debut: ‘Forever proud of u’
Leon also shared moments of Sophia singing along to “Favorite Girl” and vibing to “All That Matters,” capturing their shared enjoyment of the performance.
Couple Maymay Entrata and Joaquin Enriquez were also among those who fully embraced the experience during their first Coachella together. In one post, Maymay shared a video of them dancing to “One Time.”
“Listening to 'Favorite Girl' with my favorite girl. What?!?!” Joaquin captioned another post, referencing Justin’s hit track.
Justin’s set also featured surprise appearances from artists including Wizkid, Tems, The Kid LAROI, Dijon, and Mk.gee.
However, while many celebrities and fans praised the performance for its rawness and nostalgia, it also sparked mixed reactions online. Some viewers described it as low effort due to the use of YouTube during the set, while others embraced it as a refreshing and deeply personal artistic choice.