Kendrick Lamar and SZA kicked off their highly anticipated Grand National Tour on April 19, 2025, at the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The co-headliners, both at the top of the Billboard charts, delivered a dynamic performance that showcased their individual styles and collaborative chemistry.
Key Takeaways
- The Grand National Tour features alternating performances from Kendrick Lamar and SZA, keeping the energy high.
- The setlist includes a mix of their biggest hits, including their chart-topping collaboration "Luther."
- The concert was marked by impressive stage visuals and thematic contrasts between the artists.
A Night to Remember
The opening night of the Grand National Tour was a spectacle of sound and visuals. With both artists riding high on the success of their recent albums, the excitement in the arena was palpable. Lamar and SZA alternated their performances, allowing fans to experience the best of both worlds.
Lamar opened the show with a dramatic entrance, emerging from a Buick Grand National while performing "Wacced Out Murals." This set the tone for a night filled with high-energy tracks and powerful performances.
Setlist Highlights
The setlist for the night was a carefully curated mix of hits from both artists, ensuring that fans were treated to a comprehensive experience. Some of the standout moments included:
- "Squabble Up" - Lamar's fiery performance ignited the crowd.
- "30 for 30" - A collaborative moment that showcased their chemistry.
- "Kill Bill" - SZA's performance was enhanced by thematic visuals of mantises, tying into the song's narrative.
- "All the Stars" - A dramatic duet that highlighted their vocal synergy.
- "Not Like Us" - Lamar's vibrant performance was paired with stunning visuals celebrating Black excellence.
Thematic Contrasts
One of the most striking aspects of the concert was the contrast between Lamar's intense, urban visuals and SZA's warm, inviting stage design. Lamar's performances were characterized by muted colors and stark visuals, while SZA's segments were filled with vibrant colors and imaginative themes, such as her insect-inspired choreography.
This contrast not only kept the audience engaged but also highlighted the unique artistic identities of both performers. Their alternating performances created a dynamic flow that kept the energy high throughout the night.
Memorable Moments
The concert was filled with memorable moments that fans will not soon forget. Some highlights included:
- "Euphoria" - Lamar's passionate delivery resonated deeply with the audience.
- "F2F" - SZA's rock star fantasy came to life with engaging choreography.
- "TV Off" - The clever decision to split this song into two parts kept fans on their toes.
- "Luther" and "Gloria" - The finale felt like a heartfelt victory lap, with both artists taking a moment to appreciate the crowd.
Conclusion
The Grand National Tour's kickoff in Minneapolis was a resounding success, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable tour. With their unique styles and powerful performances, Kendrick Lamar and SZA have solidified their status as two of the most influential artists in contemporary music. Fans can look forward to more electrifying performances as the tour continues across the country.