Written and photographed by Tim & Lauren
Saturday, November 2, and Sunday, November 3, Round Rock, Texas played host to an unforgettable, first-of-its-kind event: the YAR Festival, a vibrant celebration of Asian culture through music, food, and community. YAR—*Young Asians Represent*—brought together a diverse lineup of artists, flavors, and stories in a showcase that celebrated both the traditional and the modern. With hundreds gathering to embrace Asian heritage in all its forms, YAR Festival didn’t just make history; it set the stage for a whole new cultural experience deep in the heart of Texas.
Other than the amazing performances and artists, the festival brought the people of Austin right to the streets of Asia with a night market style food hall and vendors selling all types of different foods, toys, souvenirs, and so much more.
From the tantalizing aroma of Asian Streetness’ street food to the sweet treats of Uncle Tetsu, attendees were spoiled for choice when it came to authentic Asian cuisine. Popular vendors like Gangam BBQ, Truboba Cafe, and VK Delicious made sure there was something for everyone, bringing an extraordinary taste of Asia to Texas. YAR Festival wasn’t just about savoring new flavors; it was about connecting people through music, art, and the stories that unite generations.
A Night of Unforgettable Performances
YAR Festival showcased a lineup of exceptional Asian artists, from pop and R&B powerhouses to indie musicians. Here’s a look at the standout performances that kept the energy high and the audience cheering all night.
Agnez Mo: An Electrifying Performance from the Indonesian Superstar
When AGNEZ MO stepped onto the Yar Festival stage in Round Rock this weekend, she brought with her a magnetic presence that left the crowd electrified. Known for her powerful voice, fierce stage presence, and a career that has shattered boundaries, Agnez proved once again why she is one of Indonesia’s brightest stars and an unstoppable force in the international music scene.
Opening with her hit “Coke Bottle,” Agnez immediately had the audience on their feet, captivated by her dynamic dance moves and flawless vocal control. The song, which features T.I. and Timbaland, is a testament to Agnez’s bold ambition and her commitment to blending Western and Eastern musical influences. She performed each lyric with a fierce confidence, blending pop, R&B, and hip-hop elements in a way that felt both global and distinctly her own. The crowd roared with every verse, fully immersed in the infectious beat and Agnez’s undeniable charisma.
Throughout her performance, Agnez effortlessly moved between English and Indonesian, a reminder of her roots and her determination to connect with a global audience. Her song choices covered everything from her early career in Jakarta to her biggest international hits, allowing fans a glimpse into her journey from local sensation to worldwide superstar. Her bilingual approach added layers of depth and authenticity, resonating with both her Indonesian fans and the Texas audience she performed for. Songs like “Overdose” had the crowd singing along, a testament to the universal appeal of Agnez’s lyrics and energy.
She continued with “Get Loose,” showcasing her versatility as she moved seamlessly from heartfelt ballads to upbeat tracks. The crowd was completely in awe, dancing to her every note and holding onto each lyric. Her vocals were pitch-perfect, and her dramatic delivery gave the performance a powerful, personal feel. Agnez’s talent and stage presence were undeniable, and she captivated the audience with a performance that was equal parts passion and precision.
Closing with her recent hit “F Yo Love Song,” Agnez left it all on the stage, performing with a raw intensity that had the audience chanting her name long after she exited. She proved once again that her artistry knows no bounds and that she’s as much an entertainer as she is a storyteller. Her set at Yar Festival was a testament to her journey, her resilience, and her undeniable star power. Not to mention her cameo from Justin Park, another performer at this same festival. The two of them took the stage by storm, just bouncing off of each other’s energy.
Her set was filled with personality and sass, from the hair down to the outfit. She performed as if it were her last. She brought the house down with a perfect balance of showmanship and vocal mastery, proving why she’s a global icon.
SUNKIS: Bilingual Pop-R&B Sensation Shines
SUNKIS, the Chinese-American pop and R&B artist, showcased his smooth and soulful voice with bilingual tracks that resonated with the audience on both sides of the language divide. His breakout single, "Trust Me," had the crowd singing along, while his viral tracks "Like I Do" and "Top Tier" amped up the energy. The visuals during “Like I do” included videos of other artists doing his choreography, which was a very sweet and modest way to boost credibility and to get audience engagement.
Throughout the performance, SUNKIS moved between English and Mandarin, delivering a bilingual set that celebrated his dual cultural identity. He performed “JUST DO YOU,” his collaborative hit with ØZI, a song that first put him on the map in Taiwan. The track showcased SUNKIS’s talent for blending smooth R&B melodies with pop sensibilities, a signature style that has won him a loyal following both in Asia and beyond. His delicate phrasing and effortless transitions between languages drew the audience closer, bridging cultural divides in a way that felt genuine and unforced.
At Yar Festival, SUNKIS proved he’s much more than a promising new artist; he’s a voice for hopeless romantics and a rising star on the global R&B scene. His performance showed the depth of his artistry and a profound ability to connect with fans on a deeply personal level. With each song, SUNKIS drew the crowd closer, creating an atmosphere that was as tender as it was unforgettable.
After his performance and a quick celebration backstage, K Fuse had the amazing opportunity to sit down with Sunkis himself for a brief interview. To hear more about what he has to personally share with our #SoundLovers! Stay tuned for updates on the interview!
Tiffany Day: Bedroom Pop’s Breakout Star Wows with Heartfelt Performance
At this weekend’s Yar Festival in Round Rock, Tiffany Day proved that her rise from viral sensation to celebrated artist is anything but a fluke. The Chinese-American singer, songwriter, and producer delivered a performance that was both intimate and electrifying, captivating festival-goers with her powerful voice, vulnerable lyrics, and a distinct style that has come to define her sound. From the moment she took the stage, Tiffany brought the crowd into her world, blending electronic-infused bedroom pop with a heartfelt sincerity that made each song feel personal.
Opening with fan favorites from her Recovery Project EP, including the nostalgic “San Francisco Sidewalk,” Tiffany immediately established an emotional connection with the audience. Known for her signature mix of relatability and honesty, she shared anecdotes about her own journey—growing up in Wichita, Kansas, dealing with homesickness in college, and making her way to Los Angeles to chase her dreams. Her performance of “Clouds” had the crowd swaying in unison, as the song’s melancholic yet hopeful vibe struck a chord with everyone who’s ever felt the pull of change and growth.
Of course, Tiffany didn’t keep the mood solemn for long. She closed her set with her recent single, “Hella Boy Crazy,” a playful and catchy track that’s already become a streaming favorite. Her energy was infectious, and the crowd danced along, laughing and cheering as she brought the festival grounds to life. With every performance, Tiffany’s unique blend of pop and electronic influences, combined with her classical training in piano and violin, showed just how versatile she is as an artist.
As she left the stage, it was clear that Tiffany Day had left a lasting impression on the Yar Festival audience. Her journey from a viral moment to a full-fledged music career is a testament to her talent, resilience, and the way she continues to share her story through music. With a new album on the horizon, Tiffany Day is only just getting started, and judging by the crowd’s reaction, her star is set to shine even brighter. Yar Festival gave us a glimpse of what’s to come, and Tiffany Day’s future looks nothing short of luminous.
The Dropouts: Rocking Out with Humor and Heart
The Dropouts, a high-energy rock band with a story of resilience, lit up the stage with their infectious spirit. Each band member had once left school to follow their passion for music, and they shared funny, heartfelt stories that made the crowd feel like part of their journey. Their set was filled with energy, humor, and great music, creating a bond with the audience that felt raw and real.
Zak P: A Dreamy Indie Vibe with Heartfelt Mellow Beats
Zak Pham, known for his introspective indie-pop sound, brought a dreamy atmosphere to the festival. Playing hits like "Low Tide" and "City Lights," Zak’s music washed over the crowd, creating a sense of calm and introspection. His reverb-heavy guitar and mellow beats explored the full range of human emotions, drawing everyone into a shared moment of reflection.
Rococo Disco: A Burst of Energy and Pure Fun
The festival stage lit up with Rococo Disco’s set, as the lively and dynamic group brought non-stop energy. With an electrifying performance style and a powerful stage presence, Rococo Disco created an infectious party atmosphere that had the crowd dancing along to every beat. Their upbeat vibe and undeniable charisma left everyone buzzing long after their set ended.
Cassio Stella: Enchanting the Crowd with Heartfelt Vocals
Cassio Stella’s gentle and captivating voice created a beautiful contrast to the high-energy acts, entrancing the audience with her soulful, relatable songs. Her presence was soft and enchanting, just as her performance was. Known for her ability to connect with listeners, Cassio’s set was both intimate and powerful, leaving the crowd hanging on to every note.
Cherelle K: Throwback Vibes with a Modern Twist
Influenced by 90s hip-hop and soul, Cherelle K brought a nostalgic yet fresh energy to the stage. With popular tracks like her NBTY freestyle and her upcoming debut "Last Name Kozak," she blended rap, R&B, and soul in a way that felt new and exciting. Cherelle’s set was both a nod to classic hip-hop and a forward-looking glimpse into the future of R&B.
ATK!: Explosive and Dynamic Performances
ATK! brought an unexpected twist to the festival with their high-energy sets, each brimming with dynamic storytelling and explosive performances. ATK!’s electronic beats and captivating lyricism had the crowd on a wild ride, making for an unforgettable performance. The shows were a visual and auditory experience, leaving festival-goers breathless and hungry for more.
Ramiro Brave: Soulful and Snappy
Ramiro knew how to capture the audience in ways that outshine many. His engagement towards the crowd and the energy he exuded was one of the many highlights of his set. Ramiro Brave’s performance was one of authenticity, heart, and grit—a testament to his undeniable talent and passion for music. With his powerful voice and captivating stage presence, he’s proven himself an artist to watch out for in the Austin area.
Prom Queen: A Show Like No Other
Closing out the stage before the headliners was Prom Queen, whose shows are known for their immersive storytelling, stage design, and compelling performances. The group went all out with elaborate staging and dancers, taking the crowd on an emotional journey. From ribbon dancing backup dancers to blindfolded puppeteering, she knew how to captivate the audience. Each moment felt like a scene from a movie, with explosive energy and heart-pounding beats that left everyone on the edge of their seats. It was the perfect finale to a festival that celebrated unique characters and talented music.
YAR Festival: A New Tradition in Texas
The YAR Festival made history as Texas' first large-scale Asian cultural festival, and it did so with style, community, and incredible talent. As the night came to a close, attendees were already talking about next year, eager for another celebration that embraces the diverse stories, sounds, and tastes of Asia. From the music to the food to the atmosphere, YAR Festival set the standard for what a cultural festival can be, and it’s only the beginning of what promises to be a beloved annual tradition.
Mark your calendars, Texas—YAR Festival is just getting started. #YAR
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