Summer 2024 is set to be owned by Kendrick Lamar, along with the entire West Coast. At his incredible Pop Out: Ken & Friends show in Inglewood, California, Kendrick brought together fans, artists, and rival gang members to celebrate his victory over Drake in the rap war. This show showcased a unity among West Coast artists that many believed was impossible, proving the power of a diss track to bring people together.
Initially, I was skeptical about what attending Ken & Friends would feel like. Held on Juneteenth, the show was hailed as a significant cultural event immediately after its surprise announcement just two weeks prior. Tickets sold out within minutes, with resale prices skyrocketing. But as I spoke with fans entering the venue, it became clear that the majority of attendees were Black or brown, dressed in custom LA gear. One fan expressed, “Kendrick means everything to the West Coast. He represents the best in us.”
Though I am not from the West Coast, I understand the pride one feels for their city. Kendrick’s Ken & Friends show felt like a giant block party for the entire West Coast, where artists put aside their differences for the greater good. Kendrick wanted the show to have a real ‘hood’ feel, and it certainly captured that ambiance perfectly.
The show was streamed on Amazon Prime, but what viewers didn’t see were the intimate backstage moments where West Coast legends like Tommy the Clown practiced alongside artists like YG and Dom Kennedy. Artists from opposing sides mingled freely, breaking down barriers and sharing in the joy of the event. The energy was so infectious that even I found myself caught up in the West Coast spirit.
During the show, Kendrick chose not to have any elevated risers for special guests, leveling the playing field for all attendees. DJ Hed and Mustard kicked things off with a lineup of LA talent, paying homage to Nipsey Hussle. Throughout the night, everyone, including celebrities, showed their support for Kendrick and his friends, sharing in the celebration.
Kendrick’s performance included hits like “Money Trees” and “Humble,” along with a special reunion of Black Hippy members. The highlight of the night was when Kendrick performed the Drake diss track “Euphoria,” and the crowd rapped along with fervor. The electric atmosphere proved the unity and power that exists within the West Coast music scene.