MINNEAPOLIS, MN – The highly anticipated “Grand National” tour, featuring hip-hop icon Kendrick Lamar and R&B sensation SZA, kicked off to a roaring start on Friday night, April 19, 2025, at the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The opening show drew an estimated 60,000 fans, marking a significant moment as Lamar joins the elite ranks of rappers capable of filling such massive venues.
The concert was a sprawling 45-song spectacle that lasted for two and a half hours, showcasing the extensive catalogs of both artists and their undeniable joint appeal. The evening began with a 30-minute set by DJ Mustard, who notably produced Lamar’s recent track “Not Like Us,” setting the energetic tone for the night.
The main event commenced with a dramatic entrance from Kendrick Lamar, emerging from beneath the stage in a Buick GNX – a clear nod to his current album initials. He launched into his set with “wacced out murals,” immediately captivating the sold-out crowd.
The concert was thoughtfully structured into seven acts, seamlessly blending solo performances from both Lamar and SZA with their collaborative tracks. They alternated lead segments, ensuring a dynamic flow throughout the night. Highlights included their joint performances of “30 for 30,” “Love Galore,” “Doves in the Wind,” “All the Stars,” “LOVE.,” “bodies,” “tv off,” “Not Like Us,” “luther,” and “gloria.”
Despite a dimly lit stage design, the sound quality was reportedly excellent, allowing the clarity of both artists’ vocals to shine. The energy from the sold-out crowd remained high throughout the entire performance, with enthusiastic sing-alongs and thunderous applause greeting both solo and collaborative moments.
The 52-song setlist offered a deep dive into their respective discographies, satisfying long-time fans and those new to their music. The successful launch of the “Grand National” tour in front of a massive, sold-out audience underscores the immense popularity and cultural impact of both Kendrick Lamar and SZA. Fans across North America and Europe eagerly await their turn to witness this powerhouse pairing on stage.
The tour continues with dates across the United States and Canada before heading to Europe and the UK in July. Given the reception of the opening night, the “Grand National” tour is undoubtedly one of the must-see musical events of 2025.