Kendrick Lamar and SZA inspire 50,000 fans in the Cologne stadium!

Kendrick Lamar and SZA inspire 50,000 fans in the Cologne stadium!

A dazzling music world came together in the sold-out Rheinenergiestadion in Cologne on July 2, 2025, as Kendrick Lamar and SZA gave the first European stop of their eagerly anticipated “Grand National Tour”. The 50,000 spectators who experienced the evening were treated to a dazzling spectacle that offered a very special experience both musically and visually. Kendrick Lamar stepped out of a black car and greeted his audience with epic performances that included classics like “Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe,” “Humble,” “DNA,” and “TV Off,” among others. SZA accompanied him and together they presented almost 50 hits - some solo, some in harmonious duets.

The staging of the concert was particularly impressive, including Hollywood-like cutscenes and fascinating images of insects. A highlight of the evening was when SZA floated across the stage like a fairy during her song “Nobody Gets Me,” which left the audience in awe. The musical spectrum ranged from hip-hop and R'n'B to pop and rock, which created a varied and rousing atmosphere.

“Grand National Tour” and its records

The Grand National Tour, which started in Minneapolis on April 19, 2025 and has now begun its European leg, is once again setting records in the history of the music industry. In North America, Lamar and SZA's 23 shows grossed an impressive $256.4 million and sold over 1.1 million tickets. The two artists set a new benchmark for co-headlining tours, surpassing Beyoncé and Jay-Z's On the Run II Tour (2018) by less than $3 million. Compared to other successful tours, the Grand National Tour represents the largest concert event in the career of the duo, who previously collaborated on musical projects in 2014 when SZA released her extended play "Z".

As down-to-earth as ever, the two not only let the music speak for themselves, but also through their interactions with the audience. The Cologne audience enthusiastically sang along to the chorus of SZA's hit "Kill Bill" and SZA made a tongue-in-cheek reference to Drake by covering his song "Rich Baby Daddy." At the same time, Kendrick specifically made serious accusations against Drake with his piece “Not Like Us”. It was a musical exchange that captivated fans, while Drake performed at the Lanxess Arena at the same time.

Overview and outlook

The entire tour includes 16 shows in Europe, and the Grand National Tour is also rumored to be in demand in Australia and Latin America, with additional dates already announced. Due to expected revenue declines of 15%-20% in Australia and 35% in Europe, the tour could still reach total revenue of up to $400 million. The tour has proven to be not only the most lucrative of its kind, but also one that brings together the best in the business.

Kendrick Lamar and SZA are also former Top Dawg Entertainment labelmates and their collaboration has left a lasting impact on the hip-hop landscape. With their joint success and their incredible stage presence, they have impressively proven that they don't just rely on canned goods, but are also in harmony with their fans live.

If you haven't experienced the lightning-fast duo yet, but live in Sydney or Melbourne, for example, don't miss the chance, because this tour will rightly go down in history.

For more information on upcoming shows and tickets, check out the official website t online, Wikipedia and Billboard.