By Valerie Milano
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 5/23/25 – As BottleRock Napa Valley 2025 kicks off this weekend, I had the pleasure of speaking with Michael Ryan Hart, drummer and producer for the rising alt-pop band Weekend Youth. Today is and Michael gave us a glimpse into what makes BottleRock a standout on the festival circuit and why this year feels especially meaningful.
“We’re on the White Claw Stage,” Michael shares, referring to their Saturday noon slot. The Napa-based group is no stranger to BottleRock, having performed in previous years. But the excitement hasn’t worn off. “It means a lot—it shows that what we’re doing is working. Even as a local band, we’re getting noticed beyond Napa.”
That recognition is paying off. With a new single just released (“Happy Face”) and a fuller live setup including a new guitarist, Weekend Youth is coming in strong this year.
Here is our conversation:
Living just 15 minutes from the fairgrounds, Michael knows BottleRock’s roots—and its evolution. “They make it easy to move between stages—even backstage you can hop from Jam to the Verizon Stage seamlessly. Napa’s weather is unbeatable, and the food and wine here are top-notch.”
One of his favorite features? “The Jam Pad. It’s cool to see artists in an intimate setting—it shows how bands adapt outside the big stages.”
Like many attendees, Michael is hyped for Green Day, one of this year’s headliners. “I’ve seen them many times, and it’s awesome they’re in Napa.” He’s also eager to catch Benson Boone, Noah Kahan, The Story So Far, and newer acts like Ultra Q and Jacob’s Castle—both bands Weekend Youth recently shared stages with. “There’s something for everyone, from Justin Timberlake to up-and-comers.”
For those unfamiliar with Weekend Youth, Michael describes their sound as “alternative pop-rock.” While the band usually performs as a duo, they’re embracing a bigger sound for the festival. “We brought on a guitarist for a fuller live sound.”
When asked about dream venues, Michael doesn’t hesitate: “Red Rocks Amphitheatre—dream gig for sure.” But for now, they’re focused on the road ahead. “After our Saturday set, we’ll plan the next release, head back to the studio, write more, and book summer shows.”
To follow Weekend Youth, fans can find them on Instagram and TikTok at @WKNDYTH (Weekend Youth without the vowels), or stream their music on Spotify, Apple Music, or visit weekendyouthmusic.com.
As BottleRock 2025 kicks into gear, Weekend Youth is poised to make a lasting impression—both as hometown heroes and a band with wide-reaching potential.
Thanks again to Michael Ryan Hart for joining us, and happy Memorial Day from The Hollywood Times and Aspiring Magazine!
