Kendrick Lamar and SZA launched their co-headlining Grand National Tour on Saturday, April 19, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The highly anticipated event showcased the duo’s musical synergy, as they alternated sets and performed a mix of their hits, captivating the audience from start to finish.
The tour supports Lamar's latest album, GNX, and SZA's SOS Deluxe: Lana, both of which have received critical acclaim and commercial success. Lamar, a Pulitzer Prize-winning artist, kicked off the evening with a five-song set that included the live debut of “wacced out murals” and fan favorites like “King Kunta” and “ELEMENT.” The energy in the stadium was palpable, as he transitioned smoothly between tracks, engaging the audience with his charismatic performance style.
SZA took the stage next, opening her set with “30 for 30,” a collaboration with Lamar that marked its live debut. She followed up with her multiplatinum hits “Love Galore,” “Broken Clocks,” and “The Weekend,” which had the crowd singing along. Each artist brought their unique flair to the performance, creating a dynamic concert experience that kept fans on their feet.
Following their individual sets, Lamar and SZA joined forces for a triumphant rendition of three classics: “Doves in the Wind,” “All the Stars,” and “LOVE.” This collaboration was a highlight of the evening, showcasing their chemistry and mutual respect as artists. The duo’s ability to blend their distinct styles has been a defining feature of their collaborations, and this concert was no exception.
The Grand National Tour is not just a showcase of individual talent; it also celebrates the collaborative spirit that has characterized Lamar and SZA's relationship over the years. After their joint performance, they returned to the alternating format, giving fans a taste of each artist's catalog. Lamar performed tracks like “HUMBLE.,” “m.A.A.d city,” and “Alright,” while SZA dazzled with songs like “Kill Bill,” “Good Days,” and “Kiss Me More.”
This stadium tour has been highly anticipated, especially given that Lamar's GNX is his fourth album to top the Billboard chart. SZA’s SOS Deluxe: Lana is a deluxe edition of her previous release, which also topped the Billboard album chart and was certified six-times-platinum. The success of both albums has set a high bar for the tour, and the Minneapolis kick-off did not disappoint.
In addition to their tour success, Kendrick Lamar and SZA's collaboration “Luther” has made waves on the Billboard Hot 100, remaining at the top for eight consecutive weeks as of April 19, 2025. This marks a significant achievement, as the last rap song to maintain such a position for eight weeks was 24kGoldn's “Mood” featuring iann dior in 2020-21.
“Luther” has garnered impressive statistics, earning 63.1 million radio airplay audience impressions, 22.7 million official streams, and 2,000 sales in the United States during the tracking week ending April 10, 2025. The track, which samples Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn's 1982 rendition of “If This World Were Mine,” has not only topped the Hot 100 but also leads the Radio Songs, Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, and Hot Rap Songs charts.
The single was released as the third from Lamar's sixth studio album, GNX, on November 29, 2024, and has since become a cultural phenomenon. It’s clear that both artists are at the pinnacle of their careers, with “Luther” solidifying their place in music history.
As the Grand National Tour progresses, fans can expect a mix of thrilling performances and chart-topping hits, making each concert a unique experience. The collaboration between Lamar and SZA continues to resonate with audiences, and their ability to draw from their individual strengths only enhances their collective artistry.
With the tour expected to visit multiple cities across the country, anticipation is building among fans eager to witness the magic of Lamar and SZA live. As they continue to break records and redefine musical boundaries, there’s no doubt that the Grand National Tour will be a landmark event in the music industry.
Ed Masley, a seasoned music journalist, has covered pop music for The Republic since 2007, bringing insights and reviews from festivals and concerts to fans. His extensive experience in the field has made him a trusted voice in the industry.
