On Wednesday, June 19, Kendrick Lamar delivered a thrilling and unforgettable performance at The Pop Out – Ken & Friends Concert, held at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. This event was particularly significant as it marked the live debut of his Drake diss track, “Not Like Us“. Kendrick didn’t just perform the track once; he performed it five times, much to the delight of his enthusiastic fans.
The concert began with a bold and confrontational note as Kendrick opened with “Euphoria“, another track aimed at Drake, where he altered a line to take an additional swipe at the rapper. This fiery start set the stage for an evening of high-energy performances. Kendrick continued with some of his most popular hits, including “DNA,” “Element,” “Alright,” and “Swimming Pools,” delivering each song with his trademark intensity and passion. A standout moment came when he performed “Money Trees” alongside Jay Rock, creating a powerful and memorable experience for the audience.
The excitement only grew as Kendrick brought out his fellow Black Hippy member, Ab-Soul, to join him on stage. This collaboration set the scene for another highlight: Kendrick’s performance of the first verse of “6:16 in LA,” another Drake diss, before handing the spotlight to ScHoolboy Q, who kept the energy high with “Collard Greens.” The Black Hippy reunion was a nostalgic and electrifying segment that showcased the group’s incredible synergy and individual talents.
Kendrick then returned to his solo repertoire, delivering a dynamic performance of “Backseat Freestyle“. He followed this with a powerful rendition of his “Like That” verse, keeping the crowd on their feet. The concert reached new heights when the legendary Dr. Dre took the stage. The audience erupted as Dre performed his classic hits “Still D.R.E” and “California Love,” adding a historic element to the night.
The pinnacle of the evening came when Dr. Dre introduced “Not Like Us“. Kendrick took over and delivered the track with unparalleled energy, performing it five times in succession. Each performance built on the intensity of the last, leaving the audience in awe and solidifying Kendrick’s reputation as a masterful performer.
The Pop Out – Ken & Friends Concert was announced on June 6, heightening anticipation for Kendrick’s return to the stage after his and Drake’s recent series of diss tracks. This concert not only marked his return but also reaffirmed his dominance and influence in the hip-hop world.
“Not Like Us” has been performing exceptionally well on the charts, currently sitting at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song debuted at No. 1 on May 13, breaking a Spotify record previously held by Drake for the most streams in a single day for a hip-hop track. This achievement adds to Kendrick’s list of No. 1 hits, including “Like That,” “Humble,” and his collaboration with Taylor Swift, “Bad Blood.”
The Pop Out – Ken & Friends Concert was a testament to Kendrick Lamar‘s exceptional artistry and ability to captivate an audience. This remarkable evening underscored his status as a hip-hop legend and left fans eagerly anticipating his next move. The concert not only celebrated his music but also highlighted his unmatched performance skills, setting a high standard for future shows.
