North West Performs First Solo Festival Set With Support From Ye and Kim Kardashian

North West has officially crossed a major threshold in her burgeoning music career, commanding the stage for her debut solo festival appearance.

On Friday, June 12, the 12-year-old artist—daughter of Ye and Kim Kardashian—electrified the crowd at Lyrical Lemonade’s Summer Smash 2026, held in Chicago.

Sporting a bold Balenciaga look complemented by dark shades, statement spiky jewelry, and striking blue pigtails, North delivered a high-energy performance of “TALKING,” her 2024 collaboration with Ye from the Vultures 1 project.

Her parents were quick to share their pride. Ye spotlighted the set on his Instagram Stories, featuring footage of the festival attendees erupting with excitement as she launched into the track.

Kim Kardashian provided fans with an intimate look behind the curtain, sharing photos of official backstage passes customized with North’s portrait. The SKIMS founder captured the moment her daughter hit the stage, captioning the video, “North West just arrived at her first ever festival performance.”

This milestone follows the early May release of her debut EP, N0rth4evr. North has been steadily carving out her own lane in the industry, having previously contributed to projects by Ye and Ty Dolla $ign, as well as FKA twigs’ EUSEXUA. Earlier this year, she released her solo single “Piercing on My Hand” and made notable appearances during Ye’s high-profile shows at SoFi Stadium.

Summer Smash 2026 continues its run through June 14 at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois, featuring a star-studded lineup including Lil Uzi Vert, Playboi Carti, and Baby Keem.

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