HARD Summer Music Festival originated in 2007 in downtown Los Angeles, founded by promoter Gary Richards, who had prior experience in raves and as a dance music A&R executive for labels including Interscope. Initially held on New Year's Eve, it evolved into an annual summer event blending electronic dance music with hip-hop, rock, and R&B, distinguishing itself from mainstream EDM festivals. The festival expanded through a 2012 partnership with Live Nation, moving to larger venues like LA State Historic Park and later the LA Memorial Coliseum. It has featured lineups including Skrillex, The Weeknd, Ice Cube, Major Lazer, and Disclosure, alongside spin-off events like Holy Ship cruises and satellite festivals. HARD Summer is known for its diverse programming and high-energy live performances that attract technicolor-clad crowds celebrating electronic and live music intersections.