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Indio Today
By the People, for the People
SZA Denies Rumors of Six-Figure Coachella Backup Deal for Justin Bieber
The 'Kill Bill' singer clarifies she was in New York, not paid to be on standby for Bieber's festival set.
Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:51pm
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Amidst the glitz and glamour of Coachella, a rumor about SZA's alleged backup role for Justin Bieber sparks a social media firestorm, exposing the industry's penchant for unverified speculation.Indio TodaySZA took to Instagram to address rumors that she was paid six figures to be a backup performer for Justin Bieber at Coachella 2026. The 'Somebody to Love' singer headlined the festival on Saturday night and is set to take the stage again on April 18. SZA denied the speculation, stating she was in New York and had not been 'paid a dime' to keep her schedule open in case Bieber dropped out of his Coachella performance.
Why it matters
The rumor of SZA being paid a large sum to potentially fill in for Bieber at Coachella sparked widespread speculation in the entertainment industry. As two of the biggest names in music, any collaboration or behind-the-scenes arrangement between Bieber and SZA would be closely watched by fans and the media. SZA's direct denial helps quash the unfounded gossip and maintains transparency around her own Coachella involvement.
The details
According to the report, a blind item claimed SZA received 'six figures' to keep her schedule open in case Bieber, the festival's headliner, was unable to perform. However, SZA took to Instagram to refute the rumor, stating 'Lmao who made this up?' and clarifying that she was in New York, not serving as a backup for Bieber. She insisted she had not been 'paid a dime' and was simply 'wishing everyone the best' at Coachella.
- SZA addressed the rumors on Saturday, April 12, 2026.
- SZA headlined Coachella on Saturday, April 11, 2026 and is scheduled to perform again on April 18, 2026.
The players
SZA
A 36-year-old American singer-songwriter known for hit songs like 'Kill Bill' and 'Somebody to Love'. She has previously performed at Coachella in 2016 and 2018.
Justin Bieber
A 32-year-old Canadian singer and songwriter who headlined Coachella 2026 and is set to perform again next weekend. He received a reported $10 million payout for his festival set.
What they’re saying
“Lmao who made this up ?”
— SZA, Singer
“No one paid me a dime. Wishing everyone the best.”
— SZA, Singer
The takeaway
This incident highlights the intense scrutiny and speculation that can surround high-profile music festival performances, especially when it involves two of the industry's biggest stars like SZA and Justin Bieber. SZA's direct denial of the rumor helps maintain transparency and trust with her fanbase.
