Kendrick Lamar, the Compton-born rap icon, transformed the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California, into a vibrant celebration of Juneteenth and West Coast hip-hop on Wednesday night. The event, dubbed “Ken & Friends – The Pop Out,” wasn’t just a concert; it was a powerful display of unity that brought together over 25 L.A.-based artists for a night filled with electrifying performances, nostalgic throwbacks, and a clear message of West Coast pride.
A Night of Unity and Celebration
While the concert undoubtedly generated buzz due to Kendrick Lamar’s ongoing rap beef with Drake, the true focus was on highlighting the vibrant tapestry of West Coast talent. The evening kicked off with a showcase of 15 up-and-coming L.A. artists, including Ray Vaughn, Cuzzos, Westside Boogie, and Zoe Osama. This opening act served as a powerful testament to the depth and diversity of the Los Angeles hip-hop scene.
As the night progressed, established stars took center stage. Tyler, the Creator, YG, Roddy Ricch, Ty Dolla $ign, Dom Kennedy, and Steve Lacy all delivered electrifying sets, each showcasing their unique styles and captivating the Inglewood crowd. A particularly poignant moment came during L.A. producer DJ Mustard’s set, where a tribute was paid to the late Nipsey Hussle, a beloved figure in the Los Angeles rap community.
Black Hippy Reunion and Dr. Dre’s Surprise Appearance
One of the most anticipated moments of the night arrived when Kendrick Lamar reunited with his Black Hippy comrades, Schoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, and Jay Rock. The TDE (Top Dawg Entertainment) supergroup formed in 2008 and quickly rose to prominence, dropping a string of critically acclaimed albums. Their energetic performance rekindled the chemistry they possess as a collective and brought back memories for fans who have followed their careers since the early days.
The night took another unexpected turn when the legendary Dr. Dre joined Lamar on stage. The West Coast pioneer delivered iconic hits like “Still D.R.E.” and “California Love,” further amping up the energy and igniting a wave of nostalgia through the audience.
The Power of “Not Like Us”: Lamar’s Diss Track Takes Center Stage
But the element that truly sent the crowd into a frenzy was Lamar’s performance of his recently released diss track aimed at Drake, “Not Like Us.” The track has become a viral sensation, fueled by its scathing lyrics and audacious claims. The anticipation for its live debut had been building throughout the night, with the crowd occasionally chanting “OV-hoe,” a line from the diss track, throughout the evening.
Lamar didn’t disappoint. He not only performed “Not Like Us” once but went on to rap the track an additional four times, each rendition generating a more explosive reaction from the audience. With each performance, Lamar emphasized specific lyrics, notably the line “Tryna strike a chord and it’s probably A minor,” a reference to Drake’s alleged attraction to underage girls.
The energy surrounding “Not Like Us” was undeniable. It seemed to serve as a rallying cry for the West Coast pride that permeated the entire show. Lamar’s decision to repeatedly perform the diss track became a powerful statement, solidifying his position as a lyrical titan and a defender of West Coast hip-hop.
A Night to Remember: A Celebration of Music, Community, and Legacy
“Ken & Friends – The Pop Out” wasn’t just a concert; it was a cultural moment. It showcased the depth and diversity of the Los Angeles hip-hop scene, fostered a sense of unity amongst West Coast artists, and provided a platform for rising stars. But beyond that, it was a celebration of Juneteenth, a day commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. Kendrick Lamar’s closing words resonated deeply: “We put this together with peace… I promise this won’t be the last of us.”
This message of unity and continued collaboration holds immense promise for the future of West Coast hip-hop. The concert served as a powerful reminder of the immense talent, creativity, and resilience that define this vibrant musical scene. As Lamar and his fellow artists move forward, one thing is certain: the West Coast remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of hip-hop.
