Inglewood Residents Say Noise From HARD Summer and Lady Gaga Concerts Was Too Much
INGLEWOOD — Thousands of music fans poured into Inglewood this past weekend for two major events: the HARD Summer music festival at Hollywood Park and Lady Gaga’s tour stop at the Kia Forum. But while the performers lit up the night with booming bass and roaring crowds, many nearby residents were left feeling overwhelmed — and underheard.
Two Big Shows, One Big Sound
The HARD Summer festival, held adjacent to SoFi Stadium, and Lady Gaga’s “The Mayhem Ball Tour” performance just across the street, created a whirlwind of sound that echoed across neighborhoods. Residents reported that the dual shows — both drawing tens of thousands — produced relentless noise from drums, cheers, and thumping bass.
“It just sounded like a lot of banging, a lot of cheering, and a lot of loud drumming,” said Latrice Bates, who lives near SoFi Stadium. “My son couldn’t sleep. He tosses and turns and says he can’t rest.”
Past Complaints Prompted New Rules
After similar issues arose in 2024, when noise complaints flooded in from as far as Redondo Beach and El Segundo, the city responded by banning performances on SoFi’s American Airlines Plaza. That year, over 100 complaints were filed due to amplified sound reaching distant communities.
To address those concerns, Inglewood officials, including Mayor James Butts, promised changes for 2025. This year’s stages were repositioned, and a strict 10 p.m. curfew was imposed to match the citywide limit.
“If I have to pull the plug myself, it will end at 10 o’clock,” said Mayor Butts.
New Setup, Same Old Problems?
Despite the planning, not everyone was satisfied. While CBS News reporters confirmed the events ended on time, some South Bay residents still took to social media complaining that the concerts were too loud — with several suggesting they’ll file new complaints.
Event organizers for HARD Summer claimed they took “extensive efforts” to reduce sound levels, including repositioning speakers and updating operations. However, even with these improvements, the power of live music seems to have reverberated beyond festival grounds.
Balancing Entertainment and Community
Mayor Butts maintains that Inglewood’s goal is to be an entertainment hub while also respecting its residents. But as festivals and arena tours continue to stack up, the city will need to keep adjusting how it hosts such large-scale events in residential areas.
Still, not everyone was upset. “I just love the energy,” said concertgoer Armando Alvarez. “It doesn’t matter where I am — just trying to have an adventure.”
Have you ever lived near a major concert venue? What should cities do to balance entertainment and neighborhood peace? Share your experience with us at ChicagoMusicGuide.com.