Live from iconic Los Angeles venue, The Forum, Kendrick Lamar had all eyes on him during a special Pop Out – Ken & Friends performance. Lamar took carrying to new heights as he put the whole LA on his back for an unforgettable night featuring tons of guest appearances. Certainly, if Kobe Bryant and Nipsey Hussle were still with us, they would have been front and center as well.

Kendrick Lamar's performance, streamed live on several apps like Amazon Prime and Twitch, felt like the West Coast reclaiming the hip-hop crown. More importantly, it was a Drake knockout punch in the beef if Not Like Us wasn't already the nail in the coffin. For anyone unfamiliar with how West Coast hip-hop artists get down, this was the epitome of that culture. Let's dive right into the most epic moments from this special night.

Euphoria Opens the Night

Kendrick Lamar kicked off his highly anticipated Pop Out concert with a bang, opening the show with his intense track “Euphoria.” This wasn't just any performance; it was the first time Lamar had publicly performed this song, which had become synonymous with his ongoing rivalry with Drake, Grimygoods reports.  The atmosphere crackled with energy as Lamar delivered the song in its entirety, adding new lyrics that took direct aim at Drake, demanding the return of Tupac's ring for even a modicum of respect. The audience, both live and streaming, was captivated from the very start, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.

Black Hippy Reunion

As the night unfolded, Kendrick Lamar took his audience on a journey through his illustrious career, touching upon milestones from albums like “DAMN.,” “To Pimp a Butterfly,” and “good kid, m.A.A.d city.” The highlight came with “Money Trees,” a fan favorite from 2012, where Lamar and Jay Rock teamed up for an electrifying rendition. This performance also marked a poignant reunion of TDE's Black Hippy collective, with Ab-Soul and Schoolboy Q joining Lamar and Jay Rock on stage. The presence of Black Hippy symbolized not just a musical collaboration but a shared history and camaraderie that resonated deeply with fans who have followed Lamar's career from its early days.

Tyler The Creator Takes the Stage

Continuing the celebration of West Coast talent, Tyler The Creator made a guest appearance that electrified the crowd. Known for his dynamic performances and recent standout sets at events like Coachella, Tyler brought his A-game to The Pop Out. Performing hits like “WusYaName,” Tyler showcased why people consider him one of the most innovative artists in hip-hop today. His presence added another layer of excitement and diversity to an already stellar lineup, cementing the concert as a showcase of the best the West Coast has to offer in contemporary music.

Dr. Dre Joins Kendrick on Stage

A truly iconic moment unfolded when Dr. Dre, a legendary figure in West Coast hip hop, made a surprise appearance during Kendrick Lamar's set. The significance of Dr. Dre's presence cannot be overstated; he played a pivotal role in shaping Lamar's career and the broader landscape of rap music. Together, they performed classics like “Still D.R.E.” and “California Love,” evoking nostalgia and reverence from the audience. The collaboration between mentor and protege on stage was a testament to their enduring influence and legacy within the genre. And let's not forget Lamar having Dre introduce Not Like Us with him whispering, “Psst. I see dead people.”

Unity and Peace Amidst the Music

Beyond the music, Kendrick Lamar used The Pop Out as a platform for unity and peace. In a heartfelt moment, Lamar addressed the crowd, emphasizing that the event was about more than just music or rivalries. It was a gathering to celebrate community and togetherness, transcending any conflicts or differences. Lamar's words resonated deeply as he urged everyone to appreciate the historic moment of unity, where people from diverse backgrounds and neighborhoods came together in harmony. The symbolic group photo taken on stage captured this sentiment, showcasing a rare display of solidarity in the often-divided landscape of hip-hop.

Not Like Us: A Victory Lap

The climax of The Pop Out came with Kendrick Lamar's emphatic performance of “Not Like Us,” his diss track aimed squarely at Drake. Not content with a single rendition, Lamar performed the song a staggering five times, each performance more intense and resonant than the last. The crowd joined in enthusiastically, singing along to every lyric that underscored Lamar's supremacy in their long-standing feud. The repeated performances of “Not Like Us” were not just a victory lap but a statement of artistic dominance and resilience, solidifying Lamar's position as a force to be reckoned with in contemporary rap.

Conclusion

Kendrick Lamar's The Pop Out was more than just a concert; it was a milestone event that showcased the power of music to unite, inspire, and transcend. From electrifying performances to poignant reunions and heartfelt messages of unity, the night was a testament to Lamar's artistry and influence. As fans reflect on the epic moments from The Pop Out, it's clear that Kendrick Lamar continues to push boundaries, challenge norms, and elevate the cultural conversation through his music and performances.