On June 6, 2025, Kendrick Lamar and SZA delivered an unforgettable performance to a sold-out crowd at Chicago’s Soldier Field as part of their “Grand National Tour.” This high-profile concert was a spectacle of electrifying performances, artistic collaboration, and powerful cultural moments.
A Night to Remember: The Grand National Tour
The evening was one of those rare moments in music history when two of the most influential artists in contemporary hip-hop and R&B united to create a one-of-a-kind performance. As the first joint tour between Lamar and SZA, the “Grand National Tour” showcased their individual hits, as well as collaborative tracks that spanned both their careers.
The Chicago stop on the tour attracted fans from all over the country, with tickets selling out in record time. According to sources, this was one of the highest-grossing concert events of the year, with a total revenue estimated to surpass $25 million. The crowd at Soldier Field, one of the largest stadiums in the United States, was electric as Lamar and SZA took the stage.
Sizzling Performances and Timeless Hits
The concert kicked off with Kendrick Lamar’s high-energy performance of hits like “DNA,” “HUMBLE.,” and “Swimming Pools,” each of which sparked chants and enthusiastic crowd reactions. His versatility as an artist was on full display, seamlessly moving between tracks that showcased his lyrical dexterity and politically-charged commentary on race and social issues.
As one of the most respected figures in hip-hop, Lamar brought a sense of urgency to his performance. His socially-conscious lyrics, paired with powerful visuals, resonated with the audience, as the rapper used the opportunity to comment on everything from police brutality to systemic injustice.
However, it was SZA’s performance that truly captivated the crowd, with her ethereal voice and magnetic stage presence. Her set included fan favorites like “The Weekend,” “Good Days,” and “Kill Bill.” As she performed, the crowd sang along to every word, immersed in her emotive delivery and intricate melodies. Her unique blend of R&B, soul, and pop elements created a mesmerizing atmosphere that transcended the boundaries of genre.
A Powerful Collaboration
The most anticipated moments of the night came when Lamar and SZA joined forces on stage, delivering their hits “All the Stars” and “Love.” Their chemistry was undeniable as they moved effortlessly through these tracks, showcasing the seamless partnership between two of music’s brightest stars. The crowd erupted with excitement during their joint performances, highlighting the undeniable energy that their collaboration brought to the stage.
Their set included a mesmerizing visual experience, featuring projections of celestial imagery, vibrant colors, and sweeping aerial shots of the stage. It was an artistic expression of their shared vision and commitment to pushing boundaries, both musically and visually.
Ticket Prices and Market Impact
Ticket prices for the concert ranged from $244 for standard seats to over $400 for premium VIP experiences. Despite the high price point, fans flocked to the venue in droves, proving that the demand for Lamar and SZA’s collaborative performance is unmatched. The tour has been a financial success, with future shows in Los Angeles, Atlanta, and New York expected to continue selling out.
The collaboration between Lamar and SZA has also driven an uptick in streaming numbers. According to data from Spotify and Apple Music, their respective albums saw significant increases in plays following the announcement of the tour. The momentum created by the tour has also resulted in a spike in merchandise sales, with limited-edition items flying off the shelves.
What’s Next for Lamar and SZA?
As the “Grand National Tour” continues to make waves across the United States, both Lamar and SZA are expected to release new music later this year. Industry insiders speculate that Lamar’s next album will explore new genres and collaborations, pushing the boundaries of his artistic expression. Meanwhile, SZA’s fans are eagerly awaiting the follow-up to her 2024 album, “SOS,” with rumors suggesting a more experimental approach to her next project.
Both artists have already secured their places in music history, but their collaboration has only solidified their cultural impact. For fans and music critics alike, the “Grand National Tour” will go down as one of the defining moments in hip-hop and R&B.