Kendrick Lamar, SZA Set Record $9.1 Million on Tour Opening Night

Kendrick Lamar and SZA's Grand National Tour has set a new benchmark in hip hop, with their opening night in Minneapolis becoming the highest-grossing rap concert ever, surpassing Eminem’s previous record. The tour’s massive stadium crowds and sold-out shows in cities like Houston and Dallas underscore their immense demand and global influence. Critics and fans alike have praised Kendrick’s live performances, especially for his ability to rap without backing tracks, drawing comparisons to Jay-Z and earning accolades from figures like DJ Akademiks. The concerts blend cinematic visuals and theatrical storytelling, with both artists performing collaborative tracks and solo hits, while SZA also promotes her exclusive makeup line at pop-up events along the tour. Notably, Kendrick continues to fuel headlines by referencing his ongoing feud with Drake, using both lyrics and onstage skits. The tour will continue across North America before heading to Europe and the UK, with expectations running high following its historic start.