BottleRock Napa Valley 2025 rolled into day two with Makua Rothman lighting up the White Claw Stage with his signature blend of soulful reggae and rock-infused flair. If day one set the bar high, day two kept the momentum soaring. Rothman kicked off with the vivacious “The One and Only,” immediately affirming that title to be true with eccentric energy; his Hawaiian roots blended seamlessly with a rock ’n’ roll edge.
Celebrated as a world-champion surfer, Rothman translated those oceanic rhythms into a live performance you couldn’t look away from. He led the crowd in a playful “wave” hand motion, inviting everyone to sway together and forge a shared connection. Festival-goers responded with the same energy, their dancing feet and jubilant cheers washing over the grounds like a rising tide.
Mid-set, Rothman paused for a spirited “vibe check,” urging everyone to jump up and down in unison before diving into “Let’s Go Then.” Gritty guitar riffs met a propulsive groove, building a seamless segue into “Clear the Air” and its unmistakable reggae bounce. At the height of the set, Rothman hollered “Mahalo!” in a heartfelt thanks which echoed across the venue.
With this fusion of cultural flair and musical innovation, Makua Rothman didn’t just perform, he crafted an immersive atmosphere that underscored his resilience, evolution and uniquely authentic voice.
Gallery:
The full stage comes alive as Makua and his band deliver waves of sound and aloha to the crowd. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife.
The guitarist steps up to the mic, harmonizing on the chorus with soul and energy. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife.
Locked into the rhythm, the guitarist sways with the beat, fully in the zone. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife.
Makua gets down with the rhythm, letting the island vibes take over. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife.
Makua commands the stage with island fire, every lyric lifting the crowd higher. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife.
Makua Rothman points to the sky, hyping the crowd to jump with him. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife.
