Common People open main stage, talk breakout moment with SWOMP at Innings Festival 2026

Common People kicked off the Home Plate Stage on the final day of Innings Festival in Tempe, Arizona on Sunday, February 22, 2026, becoming the first band to take the festival’s main stage. Fresh off their set, SWOMP caught up with the band backstage in their trailer. The group reflected on playing their first-ever music festival - a milestone moment - and the energy of opening the main stage on the final day of a packed weekend. They also spoke about rolling with the unexpected on stage, embracing the live moment and pushing forward when things don’t go exactly as planned. Formed in a basement in Southern California, the five-piece - made up of members from across the U.S. - built their sound through constant jamming, local shows and a shared love of guitar-driven rock rooted in garage, indie and psychedelia. Their early demos eventually caught the attention of Brad Shultz of Cage The Elephant, leading to a record deal on his Parallel Vision label in partnership with Big Loud Rock. In the interview, the band also discussed their musical influences, the momentum from a string of recent singles and what fans can expect from their upcoming debut EP. Looking ahead, Common People are set to hit the road for a series of shows, including dates supporting Rainbow Kitten Surprise and fellow rising act Congress The Band - continuing what’s shaping up to be a breakout year. Common People is comprised of Nicky Winegardner (vocals), Cormac Cadden (drums), Konrad Ulich (bass, vocals), Asher Thomson (guitar), and Sam Belzer (guitar). Follow the band at https://www.commonpeopleofficial.com/. Photo credit: Kate Lamendola