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Waxahatchee Joins Rilo Kiley for a Stunning ‘With Arms Outstretched’ at Final Reunion Show

Waxahatchee Joins Rilo Kiley for a Stunning ‘With Arms Outstretched’ at Final Reunion Show

Valeriy Bagrintsev Valeriy Bagrintsev
5 minute read

Waxahatchee Joins Rilo Kiley for a Stunning ‘With Arms Outstretched’ at Final Reunion Show

Experience the magic as Waxahatchee and Rilo Kiley unite for an unforgettable ‘With Arms Outstretched’ performance at the final reunion tour show.

There’s something undeniably electric about reunion tours, especially when your favorite indie bands come back to life after years apart. This past October, Rilo Kiley wrapped up their highly anticipated reunion tour with a heartwarming final show that truly made fans swoon. And guess what? Waxahatchee—yes, Katie Crutchfield herself—joined them on stage for a special rendition of the beloved track, “With Arms Outstretched.” If you weren't there, prepare for some serious nostalgia.

Rilo Kiley performing live at the Greek Theatre

Rilo Kiley rocking the stage at the Greek Theatre, Los Angeles

The Reunion Tour You’ve Been Waiting For

Rilo Kiley’s "Sometimes When You’re On, You’re Really Fucking On Tour" marked their first major run of shows since 2008. Although they had a one-off livestream benefit performance in 2021, this tour was the real deal—a long-awaited comeback that rekindled the magic of their early-2000s indie-rock brilliance.

Their journey culminated in an epic final show on October 18, 2025, at the iconic Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. The atmosphere was electric, filled with longtime fans and new listeners alike, all eager to soak in those signature tunes that made Rilo Kiley a household name in indie circles.

Waxahatchee: A Superfan Steps Into the Spotlight

Opening the night was none other than Waxahatchee, aka Katie Crutchfield, who’s been a self-confessed Rilo Kiley superfan for years. Talk about a dream come true! It’s always a thrill when an artist you admire gets to share the stage with their idols, and this was no exception.

The highlight of the night was undoubtedly their joint performance of “With Arms Outstretched,” a standout track from Rilo Kiley’s 2002 sophomore album The Execution Of All Things. It’s one of those songs that perfectly captures the bittersweet and emotional depth the band is known for. Watching Waxahatchee and Rilo Kiley weave their voices together was like witnessing a beautiful passing of the indie torch.

Catch a glimpse of this heartfelt collaboration below:

Watch Waxahatchee join Rilo Kiley for ‘With Arms Outstretched’ on Instagram

And if you want to relive the magic, here’s the full performance from the final night in LA on YouTube:

Setlist Highlights: A Journey Through Rilo Kiley’s Catalog

The band didn’t hold back on treats for their fans. The setlist was a trip down memory lane, showcasing their rich discography:

  • The Execution Of All Things
  • Spectacular Views
  • Paint’s Peeling
  • The Moneymaker
  • Dreamworld
  • I Never
  • Glendora
  • Close Call
  • It’s A Hit
  • Does He Love You?
  • Ripchord
  • The Good That Won’t Come Out
  • Silver Lining
  • With Arms Outstretched (with Waxahatchee)
  • A Better Son/Daughter
  • Portions For Foxes
  • Let Me Back In
  • Breakin’ Up
  • Pictures Of Success

Jenny Lewis on Rilo Kiley’s Future and Personal Projects

Jenny Lewis, Rilo Kiley’s charismatic lead singer, has kept fans guessing about the band’s future. In a 2019 interview, she expressed openness to future reunions. Fast-forward to 2023, and while she mentioned that a reunion isn't currently on the table due to her busy schedule, she never shut the door on the idea completely.

Here’s a candid look at Jenny’s thoughts on her new album On The Line, the aftermath of difficult personal experiences, and the possibility of Rilo Kiley’s return:

Rilo Kiley's Legacy and Streaming Revival

While live performances have been few since 2011, Rilo Kiley's legacy lives on. In 2020, the band reissued their rare 1999 self-titled debut album on vinyl and made it available on streaming platforms for the first time. This move introduced their pioneering sound to a whole new generation of indie music lovers.

Waxahatchee’s Rising Stardom and ‘Tigers Blood’

As for Waxahatchee, Crutchfield’s sixth studio album, Tigers Blood, dropped last year to critical acclaim. The album earned a glowing five-star review for its mature and intimate songwriting, marking a significant evolution from her earlier work. The record was praised for balancing fiery passion with warm, reflective moments — a perfect complement to the emotive energy of her live collaboration with Rilo Kiley.

It also secured a spot as one of the 50 best albums of 2024, cementing Waxahatchee’s position as a leading voice in modern Americana and indie music.

"These songs offer a more adult and grounded perspective than ones like ‘Lone Star Lake’ and ‘Evil Spawn’; they’re about the person who feels like home rather than the one who gets your blood pumping."

– Music critic on Waxahatchee’s Tigers Blood

FAQ

  • What made the final Rilo Kiley reunion show special?
    The final show in Los Angeles featured Waxahatchee joining Rilo Kiley for a heartfelt performance of “With Arms Outstretched,” adding a fresh yet nostalgic vibe to the classic.
  • Has Rilo Kiley released new music recently?
    No new music has been released, but their 1999 debut album was reissued and made available for streaming in 2020.
  • Is there any word on future Rilo Kiley reunions?
    Jenny Lewis has expressed openness to future reunions but confirmed nothing is currently planned due to her busy schedule.
  • What’s Waxahatchee’s latest project?
    Her sixth studio album, Tigers Blood, came out last year and has been highly praised for its mature and intimate storytelling.
  • Where can I watch the Rilo Kiley and Waxahatchee performance?
    The collaboration was shared on Instagram and YouTube, offering fans a chance to relive the special moment online.

Feeling inspired by this incredible moment in indie music history? Celebrate your love for Rilo Kiley and Waxahatchee with a stunning album cover poster from our store. It's a tasteful way to keep the vibe alive in your own space. Check them out here.

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