Kendrick Lamar is set to bring a unique Juneteenth celebration to the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, marking a significant moment for fans and the hip-hop community. The Compton-born rapper, known for his profound lyrics and dynamic performances, will take the stage for a one-night-only event titled “The Pop Out — Ken & Friends.” This highly anticipated show, scheduled for June 19, promises to be a memorable experience for those lucky enough to attend.
The announcement of this special Juneteenth concert has generated considerable excitement, especially since it will be Lamar’s first live performance in Southern California following his recent public feud with Drake. The rivalry between the two rap giants has been a hot topic, with both artists releasing diss tracks that have captivated fans and critics alike. Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” a track that takes direct aim at Drake, has been particularly notable for its sharp lyrics and bold accusations.
For those unable to secure tickets, which are currently being resold for prices ranging from $496 to $2,500 on Ticketmaster, there is good news. The concert will be streamed online, providing a more accessible option for fans. Amazon’s Prime Video will broadcast the event, produced by Lamar’s pgLang label and Free Lunch agency, starting at 4 p.m. Additionally, Twitch, owned by Amazon, will livestream the show via Amazon Music’s channel, ensuring that Lamar’s performance reaches a wide audience.
The event will kick off with sets from 92.3 KRRL’s DJ Hed and “Not Like Us” producer DJ Mustard, who will help set the tone for the evening. DJ Hed will start at 4 p.m., followed by DJ Mustard at 4:45 p.m. Lamar is scheduled to take the stage at 5:45 p.m., promising a night filled with his greatest hits and possibly some new music.
The name “The Pop Out” is derived from a line in Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” where he raps, “Sometimes you gotta pop out and show n—s/ Certified boogeyman, I’m the one that up the score with ’em.” This track, along with others like “Meet the Grahams,” has been central to Lamar’s ongoing feud with Drake. The public spat began in March when Lamar criticized Drake and J. Cole in a verse on Future and Metro Boomin’s “Like That,” leading to a series of retaliatory tracks from both sides.
The feud reached a peak with Lamar’s “Not Like Us” and “Meet the Grahams,” where he made serious allegations against Drake, including accusations of pedophilia. Drake responded with tracks like “Family Matters” and “Push Ups,” but the tension between the two artists has seemingly cooled in recent weeks. Despite the heated exchanges, both rappers have continued to focus on their music, with Lamar now preparing for his Juneteenth performance.
The concert is not just a celebration of Juneteenth but also a testament to Lamar’s resilience and artistry. As fans eagerly await the show, there is speculation that Lamar might film a music video for “Not Like Us” in Compton, adding another layer of excitement to the event.
Tickets for “The Pop Out — Ken & Friends” are still available, with presales ongoing and the general sale starting soon. This concert is expected to be a landmark event, showcasing Lamar’s talent and his ability to captivate audiences with his powerful performances.
As the date approaches, fans are buzzing with anticipation, eager to see what surprises Lamar has in store. Whether attending in person or watching online, this Juneteenth celebration promises to be a night to remember, highlighting Kendrick Lamar’s impact on the music industry and his dedication to his craft.
