Kendrick Lamar and SZA Kick Off Grand National Tour with Stellar Minneapolis Show
Minneapolis, MN—On Saturday night, Kendrick Lamar and SZA launched their highly anticipated Grand National Tour at the U.S. Bank Stadium, captivating fans with an extensive 52-song setlist. This collaborative tour comes in celebration of their respective new albums—Lamar’s upcoming GNX and SZA’s SOS Deluxe: Lana, which showcases their evolution as artists and the dynamic chemistry they share on stage.
An Engaging Performance
As the lights dimmed, Lamar opened his set with “Wacced Out Murals,” performing from inside his iconic black Buick, a signature move that resonates with fans and reflects his unique performance style. SZA followed with her own creative flair, utilizing a visual of a praying mantis, known for its aggressive mating rituals, during her rendition of “Kill Bill.” The duo elegantly blended their sets, joining forces for performances of “30 for 30,” “Doves in the Wind,” “All the Stars,” “Love.,” “Gloria,” and their chart-topping single “Luther.” Their on-stage synergy delighted the audience and showcased their well-established friendship from their days at Top Dawg Entertainment.
Recent Achievements and New Releases
Lamar’s star continues to rise, especially following his significant achievements at the 2025 Grammy Awards, where he won five trophies, including Song of the Year and Record of the Year for his acclaimed track “Not Like Us,” a diss track directed at fellow rapper Drake. Additionally, Lamar made headlines as the first solo rapper to headline the Super Bowl Halftime Show in 2025, elevating his status within the music industry. His performance featured an impressive lineup, including SZA, tennis icon Serena Williams, and producer Mustard.
SZA, on the other hand, is also experiencing a year of recognition. Having recently appeared on Sesame Street to sing alongside Elmo and other beloved characters, she continues to reach new audiences. At the 2025 Grammys, SZA received the award for Best R&B Song for her track “Saturn.” Her SOS Deluxe: Lana includes additional tracks such as “Take You Down,” “Open Arms (Just SZA),” “PSA,” and a reimagined version of “Joni,” which robustly complements her already impressive catalog.
An Expansive Tour Ahead
The Grand National Tour is set to continue through August, with stops planned in Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, and throughout the United States. Both artists are looking to further connect with their fans across these diverse locations, bringing their musical styles and performances to wider audiences.
Fans can find information about the full setlist, along with photos and footage from the Minneapolis show, on various music platforms. This significant tour highlights not only their individual artistry but also underscores the growing trend of collaborations in the music industry.
Conclusion
As the Grand National Tour progresses, it marks a pivotal moment for both Kendrick Lamar and SZA, who are at the forefront of contemporary music. Their collaborative performances not only celebrate their artistry but also represent an ongoing dialogue in hip-hop and R&B, where partnerships can create unforgettable musical experiences. With a successful opening night under their belts, the anticipation for their upcoming shows is sure to stay high, solidifying their positions as leading figures in the music world. Fans can look forward to more electrifying performances and engaging content from both artists as they continue their tour, with many eager to see how they will push the boundaries of their music even further.
