Indio Native and American Idol Winner Abi Carter to Make Stagecoach Debut

From festival fan to featured performer, Indio native Abi Carter is living her dream at this year’s Stagecoach Festival. The 2024 American Idol winner is set to take the stage Friday, marking her first performance at one of the world’s largest country music festivals.

Carter, who now lives in Los Angeles, shared her excitement with NBC Palm Springs' Tiani Jadling, reflecting on her journey from a local fan in the audience to a nationally recognized artist on stage.

"That's an amazing opportunity I never thought I would get to have here," Carter said. "I've been living here in the desert my whole life, so to perform at Coachella or Stagecoach has always been a dream of mine. I can't believe that it happened so quickly."

Her debut album, Ghosts in the Backyard, released last November, will get a deluxe version launching Friday—coinciding with her big moment on the Stagecoach stage. Carter said choosing this day for the album’s re-release felt “ceremonious,” calling it the perfect way to celebrate a milestone in both her career and personal journey.

Though she’s now based in L.A., Carter says the Coachella Valley will always be home. "I didn’t know how much the Valley had my back until these past few years," she shared. "That has been incredible."

Her appearance at Stagecoach is a full-circle moment that highlights the power of dreams, dedication, and a hometown’s unwavering support.

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