Kendrick Lamar’s Juneteenth Pop Out celebration took the internet by storm with an unforgettable evening of music, unity, and a little pettiness. The special event commemorating Juneteenth drew attention online and in person for its special lineup and surprises throughout the night. Special guest performances by renowned artists like Tyler The Creator, DJ Mustard, and Steve Lacy added an extra layer of excitement, each delivering electrifying sets that resonated with the audience.
Beyond the stellar performances, the Juneteenth Pop Out was a testament to the power of community support. Lamar emphasized the importance of giving back, and the celebration featured various local artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere that blended the California music scene together.
One of the most talked-about moments of the evening was Lamar’s performance of his diss track to Drake, “Not Like Us.” Lamar’s decision to perform the song five times back-to-back at the event was a bold statement as each rendition was charged with intensity and emotion. Check out the most viral moments from yesterday’s festivities.
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Kendrick Lamar Premiered A New Verse In “Euphoria”
During his opening performance, Lamar surprised fans with an electric performance of “Euphoria,” where he debuted a new element of the song, spitting, “Give me Tupac’s ring back, and I might give you a little respect.” A reference to Drake recently purchasing the jewelry at an auction last year.
DJ Mustard Surprised Fans With Roddy Ricch Performance
We all remember where we were when “The Box” dropped, so it was only right to see Roddy Ricch at the Pop Out concert taking fans on a trip down memory lane.
Tyler The Creator Makes A Guest Appearance
Tyler The Creator performed a surprise performance during the festivities, and fans embraced him on the stage. “It was beautiful to see the whole city come together last night,” he tweeted. My first raps were written at home off Crenshaw Dr and 82nd, right down the street from the forum. Thank you. Shout out to FREE LUNCH.”
LA Came Together
As Lamar performed many of his hits, he brought several sections, artists, and musical figures together on stage to celebrate the city’s coming together. “This sh-t gets me emotional,” Lamar says. “We done lost a lot of homies to this music sh-t. A lot of homies to some street sh-t and for all of us to be on this stage together; unity from each side of motherf-ckin L.A., Crips, Bloods, Pirus this sh-t is special, man.”
A Five-Time Performance Of “Not Like Us”
In true Gemini fashion, Kendrick Lamar activated his petty powers when he performed “Not Like Us” five times in a row. From the intense camera work to fans screaming the entire song he broke the internet. Not only did he have massive fan support, but many rappers and LA figures hopped on stage with him to have a full celebration as the diss track played.
About the Author: Kenyatta Victoria is the lead writer for Essence GU, working on all things pop culture, politics, entertainment and business. Throughout her time at GU, she’s garnered devoted readers and specializes in the Zillennial point of view.