On Saturday night, hip-hop and R&B powerhouses Kendrick Lamar and SZA kicked off their highly anticipated Grand National Tour at US Bank Stadium. They delivered an electrifying performance that captivated the crowd for nearly three hours.
The festivities began earlier in the day with SZA’s “NOT Beauty” pop-up experience, which featured interactive displays, photo opportunities, and merchandise and drew long lines of eager fans.
DJ Mustard set the tone for the evening with an opening set that energized the audience before the main event. As anticipation peaked, Lamar made a dramatic entrance aboard the tour’s signature Buick Grand National automobile, which rose from beneath the stage during the opening notes of “Wacced Out Murals.”
Standing alone on the massive stage, Lamar launched into “Squabble Up,” sending the crowd into a frenzy. His dancers soon joined him as he delivered powerful renditions of fan favorites “King Kunta,” “ELEMENT,” and “TV Off.”
The production reached new heights when Lamar introduced SZA to the stage for their collaborative track “30 for 30.” Both artists sported casual streetwear with baggy jeans, complementing their laid-back yet commanding stage presence.
Following their duet, Lamar temporarily exited, giving SZA the spotlight. She captivated the audience with soulful performances of “Love Galore,” “Broken Clocks,” and “The Weekend. ” The latter was performed while seated atop the Grand National vehicle before it descended beneath the stage.
Lamar’s return brought renewed energy with a string of hits, including “Euphoria,” “Humble,” and “Family Ties.” In one of the night’s most memorable moments, the stadium lit up from floor to ceiling as Lamar performed a surprising but compelling remix of “M.A.A.D City” over the beat of Anita Baker’s “Sweet Love.”
The visual production reached artistic heights during SZA’s set, particularly during “Blind,” which featured elaborate insect-themed props. Her choreography shined brightest during “Diamond Boy,” showcasing her evolution as a performer.
The pair’s chemistry was evident during their joint performances of “All The Stars” and “Love,” with seamless transitions between their sets maintaining the show’s momentum throughout the night.
Lamar’s solo segments demonstrated his commanding stage presence, particularly during high-energy renditions of “Like That,” “DNA,” and “Don’t Kill My Vibe.” Meanwhile, SZA’s vocal prowess was on full display during emotional performances of “Kill Bill,” “Snooze,” and “Good Days.”
The concert concluded with both artists performing “Gloria” before making a theatrical exit inside the Grand National vehicle as it descended beneath the state and disappeared.
Throughout the two-hour and 45-minute show, the production spared no expense. State-of-the-art visuals, pyrotechnics, and sophisticated stage mechanics enhanced the 50-plus song setlist, keeping the stadium’s energy electric from start to finish.
This pairing of two of music’s most innovative artists was a harmonious match. Their complementary styles created a cohesive experience that satisfied fans of both performers. As the Grand National Tour continues across the country, music enthusiasts would be wise not to miss this exceptional showcase of contemporary hip-hop and R&B excellence.
