The opening night of Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s Grand National tour was nothing short of spectacular, smashing longstanding records in the process.
Kendrick Lamar, on the very first night of his Grand National tour co-headlined by SZA, shattered a remarkable record. With more than 47,000 fans packing into the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, the event grossed over $9.1 million, making it the highest-grossing hip hop concert ever. This surpasses Eminem’s previous record established in Melbourne back in 2019.
Touring Data took to social media, posting about Kendrick’s massive achievement, which also marks the first rap concert to break the $9 million barrier. This highlights the massive appeal and star power Kendrick holds in the music industry, especially given that the tickets sold averaged a price of $192.70 each.
While the concert itself was a monumental success, Kendrick also took the opportunity to add a bit of drama to the night. He aimed some pointed remarks at fellow rapper Drake, taking a jab at Drake’s ongoing legal battles. Before performing a popular diss track, Kendrick played a skit that humorously mirrored courtroom proceedings, poking fun at Drake’s lawsuit against Universal Music Group.
During the night, Kendrick also premiered a new verse over the track “Family Ties.” However, fans noted the notable absence of Baby Keem during this performance. As if that wasn’t enough, he gave fans another surprise by interpolating Anita Baker’s “Sweet Love” into his song “m.A.A.d. City.” Baker was among those who reacted, expressing her delight over social media.
The opening event holds special significance not only for breaking records but also being the most attended event for both Kendrick and SZA outside a festival setting. With the tour off to such a sensational start, fans can only anticipate what other surprises Kendrick has in store as the Grand National tour moves along.
In the world of hip-hop, breaking records is no easy feat, but Kendrick Lamar continues to set new standards. Surpassing previous achievements, the Grand National tour has hit the ground running, showing no signs of slowing down.
