The Pop Out: Ken & Friends, often referred to simply as The Pop Out, was a one-off concert by renowned American rapper Kendrick Lamar. Held at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California, on June 19, 2024, this event celebrated Juneteenth and Black Music Month. It marked Lamar’s first major performance following his highly publicized feud with Canadian rapper Drake.
The concert was unexpectedly announced by Lamar on June 5, 2024, just two weeks before the event. The set list comprised 60 songs predominantly crafted by artists from the Greater Los Angeles area. Opening acts DJ Hed and Mustard set the stage for over 25 West Coast performers, including notable names like Ty Dolla Sign, Dom Kennedy, Steve Lacy, Tyler, the Creator, Roddy Ricch, YG, Schoolboy Q, Jay Rock, Ab-Soul, and Dr. Dre.
Lamar’s headlining set included four of his five Drake-diss tracks: “Like That,” “Euphoria,” “6:16 in LA,” and “Not Like Us,” the latter of which was performed six times consecutively.
The Pop Out was Lamar’s second performance to be live-streamed on Amazon Prime Video and Twitch, following his 2022 concert film Kendrick Lamar Live: The Big Steppers Tour. The event received universal acclaim, with critics and industry peers praising Lamar for spotlighting underground talent and promoting unity within the West Coast hip hop scene.
Background
Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s feud reignited on March 22, 2024, when Lamar dissed Drake and J. Cole on Future and Metro Boomin’s single “Like That.” The track topped the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks. Throughout April and May, both rappers exchanged diss tracks, escalating tensions. Lamar’s “Not Like Us” became his second Hot 100 chart-topper of 2024, prompting Drake to seemingly concede the feud with “The Heart Part 6.” Music experts and social media fans generally favored Kendrick in the feud.
Concert Announcement and Ticket Sales
Lamar’s announcement of The Pop Out came on June 5, 2024, describing it as a “victory lap” celebration. The concert’s title was derived from a lyric in “Not Like Us.” The event was sponsored by Cash App, Gin & Juice, and Visa. Tickets, which went on sale on June 6, sold out instantly due to high demand. Despite affordable initial prices, resale tickets soared to between $350 and $1,500. Several media outlets noted that the actual audience was predominantly Black or Brown, despite initial concerns. And from being in attendance, I can personally attest to this.
Broadcasting and Production
The Pop Out was live-streamed on Amazon Prime Video and Twitch as part of Amazon Music’s “Forever the Influence” initiative. Power 106 rebranded as “Kendrick 106,” playing Lamar’s discography in celebration. The event was presented by Lamar’s creative company, PGLang, and Free Lunch, with AEG promoting it. The broadcast was directed by Damien Gravois and Mike Carson, with Lamar, Dave Free, and Hank Neuberger as executive producers.
Backstage and Notable Attendees
Backstage, the atmosphere was described as intimate and energizing. Artists mingled and practiced routines together, emphasizing the concert’s communal spirit. DJ Hed, a long-time friend of Lamar, encouraged him to “own the moment.” Notable attendees included celebrities like LeBron James, The Weeknd, and Russell Westbrook. Lamar’s partner, Whitney Alford, attended with their children, dispelling rumors fueled by Drake’s fans.
Fashion and Set List
Lamar’s outfit paid homage to Tupac Shakur, with a red hoodie, wide-leg jeans, and a custom-made cap. Merchandise was available, including a T-shirt referencing a line from “Euphoria.” The set list featured performances from DJ Hed and Mustard, culminating in Lamar’s headlining act with numerous guest appearances, creating a memorable and impactful event.
Conclusion
The Pop Out: Ken & Friends was more than just a concert; it was a cultural milestone that highlighted Kendrick Lamar’s dominance in the rap industry and his commitment to uplifting the West Coast hip hop community. The event seamlessly blended star power with grassroots talent, creating a unique celebration of Black music and culture. Lamar’s strategic use of the platform to address his feud with Drake, while simultaneously fostering a spirit of unity, underscored his influence and artistry. As Kendrick rapped “Not Like Us” while giving handshakes and hugs to friends and family, it was clear that The Pop Out had not only showcased an unforgettable array of performances but had also solidified its place in music history as a defining moment for Kendrick Lamar and his peers.
