Kendrick Lamar returned to his roots with a powerful performance at Soldier Field in Chicago, cleverly connecting his California origins with his family’s Chicagoan background.
Lamar, who has consistently celebrated his hometown of Compton, invited the audience to embrace their enthusiasm, declaring, “This is my second hometown, make some noise,” highlighting the emotional significance of his return.
The rapper’s performance is part of a summer tour that features a grand theme of journey and identity, echoing through his recent surprise album “GNX.” This album and tour pay homage to the rare 1987 Buick Grand National Experimental, which symbolizes both strength and legacy for Lamar, having been born in the same year the car released.
This vehicle is more than a car for Lamar; it mirrors his father’s journey, who drove him from the hospital in a similar model, firmly rooting Lamar’s identity in both music and personal history.
The Grand National Tour features Lamar alongside R&B sensation SZA, his longtime collaborator and friend, creating an electrifying synergy. The pair first crossed paths in 2011 when SZA was selling merchandise at one of Lamar’s shows. Their shared journey through Top Dawg Entertainment has led to an unbreakable bond that captivates audiences.
This co-headlining event proved unconventional and dynamic, spanning nearly four hours and presenting over 50 songs split across nine acts, with both artists taking turns in the spotlight. The two harmoniously blend their distinct styles, resulting in a memorable synchronization of their musical identities.
One standout moment occurred when the duo performed the celebrated track “All The Stars” from the “Black Panther” soundtrack. As they sang from raised platforms on opposite ends of the stage, fans created a mesmerizing galaxy effect with their illuminated phones.
The emotional spectrum of this concert was profound; while Lamar brought his signature rapid-fire lyrics and thematic explorations of societal issues through his set—a stark monochrome aesthetic showcased dancers and burning fireballs—SZA’s performances contrasted with colorful visuals and lush themes representing love and transformation.
In the spirit of authenticity, SZA remarked on her song “Snooze,” indicating her take on love and forging a personal connection with the crowd. Lamar tackled themes of survival and tenacity in the streets with songs like “m.A.A.d city” and “Alright,” conveying his own narrative of resilience.
Much of the interaction between Lamar and SZA during the performance reinforced their artistic chemistry, providing a fulfilling contrast between their perspectives. SZA’s dreams about love and relationships seamlessly tangled with Lamar’s reflections on street life, creating a fascinating dichotomy that resonated with attendees.
While the concert remained a celebration, it also teetered on conflict—Lamar’s ongoing rivalry with Drake was a recurring theme. His song “Not Like Us” highlighted his ongoing beef, with moments during the show dedicated to subtle jabs at his nemesis. SZA joined this playful rivalry by covering Drake’s “Rich Baby Daddy” and carrying the cheeky banter into their shared performances.
A unique aspect of the tour was the thematic incorporation of a mock deposition video featuring Lamar responding to imagined legal inquiries related to his feud with Drake, adding a theatrical layer to the show that complemented the heavy lyrical content.
Despite the competitive atmosphere, Lamar’s artistry shines through. Reports indicate that he broke records on his Grand National Tour; opening night in Minneapolis saw him generate over $9 million from a single performance, marking a historic milestone for a rapper.
As the concert progressed, SZA and Lamar crowned their performances with their latest collaboration, “Luther,” which recently made Billboard history, demonstrating their unyielding presence in the music scene.
Attendees were left in awe as both artists pulled together to conclude the night, driving the metaphorical GNX into the future with their final song, carrying forward the legacy of empowerment they embody.
In summary, Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s concert at Soldier Field celebrated not only their personal and professional journeys but also their commitment to authentic storytelling through music. The Grand National Tour facilitated a deep connection with fans, instilling pride for their roots while continuing to address the complexities of contemporary life.
This fusion of narrative and performance art undoubtedly solidifies both Lamar and SZA as leading voices in the music industry—poets in their own right.
image source from：https://chicago.suntimes.com/music/2025/06/07/kendrick-lamar-sza-grand-national-tour-soldier-field-show-set-list
