Los Angeles is bracing for a major musical event as Kendrick Lamar and SZA bring their Grand National Tour to SoFi Stadium on May 21. The tour, already hailed as one of the most compelling live acts of 2025, has captivated audiences across the country with its high-energy performances, intimate visuals, and a celebration of two of the most influential voices in contemporary hip-hop and R&B.
The Grand National Tour marks a rare co-headlining effort by Lamar and SZA, both of whom rose to prominence under the Top Dawg Entertainment label and share a deep artistic synergy. The tour showcases their respective catalogs of hits—Kendrick’s politically-charged lyricism and dynamic flow paired with SZA’s ethereal vocals and genre-blending soundscapes. Together, they offer a compelling experience that bridges storytelling, emotion, and social commentary.
Fans attending the SoFi Stadium concert can expect a full-throttle production, complete with elaborate stage design, cinematic visuals, and a setlist spanning from Lamar’s Pulitzer Prize-winning DAMN. and Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers to SZA’s critically acclaimed CTRL and SOS. The duo has also teased special collaborations and guest appearances unique to each city, fueling anticipation among fans in their shared hometown of Los Angeles.
“This is more than just a concert—it’s a cultural moment,” said music critic Lena Rodriguez of Spin. “Lamar and SZA are both at the peak of their creative powers, and this tour feels like a celebration of everything they’ve built over the last decade.”
The tour’s success comes at a time when both artists are redefining their careers. Kendrick Lamar, who has taken a more independent path after parting ways with Top Dawg Entertainment in 2022, has embraced a more conceptual and theatrical approach to performance, integrating spoken word, dance, and multimedia into his sets. SZA, who continues to dominate streaming charts and award shows, has cemented her place as a leading figure in modern R&B with themes of vulnerability, empowerment, and resilience.
Beyond entertainment, the Grand National Tour has also spotlighted broader cultural themes. Lamar, known for his social activism and political commentary, weaves messages about race, identity, and systemic injustice into his performances. SZA complements this with explorations of self-worth, mental health, and womanhood. Their collaboration on this tour represents a powerful artistic dialogue at a time of national introspection.
The stop at SoFi Stadium—a venue known for hosting some of the largest concerts and sporting events in the country—underscores the scale of the tour. With a seating capacity exceeding 70,000, the event is expected to be one of the largest musical gatherings in Los Angeles this year. Local businesses and hospitality services are preparing for an influx of fans, boosting the regional economy.
Security has also been ramped up to accommodate the large crowd, with officials coordinating with venue staff to ensure safety and smooth logistics. Public transit options are being expanded for the night, and fans are encouraged to arrive early due to anticipated high traffic volumes around the stadium.
Tickets for the Grand National Tour stop at SoFi Stadium sold out within hours of going on sale, though resale prices remain steep, reflecting the high demand. For many fans, the experience represents more than just a night of music—it’s a reunion with artists whose voices have defined a generation.
As Kendrick Lamar and SZA prepare to take the stage, Los Angeles prepares to witness a night that blends artistry, activism, and celebration—a hallmark of two artists who continue to push boundaries and inspire audiences worldwide.