Kendrick Lamar sets record for the highest-grossing concert performed by a rapper in Canada

Kendrick Lamar sets new Canadian concert record

Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s Grand National World Tour is on the brink of wrapping up its UK and European leg—but not before leaving a trail of broken records and unforgettable moments. One of the most jaw-dropping accomplishments came during their Canadian stop in Toronto, where the duo shattered records by delivering the highest-grossing concert by a rapper in Canadian history.

The figures are as massive as the hype. Over 72,000 fans packed into the Rogers Centre over two back-to-back nights, bringing in a combined gross of $7.7 million. Those shows were held on June 12 and June 13. It wasn’t just a concert—it was a moment of cultural significance that reinforced Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s global dominance, both as artists and as live performers.

As the tour heads toward its grand finale in Stockholm, Sweden, on August 9, it’s worth taking a closer look at what made this tour—and particularly the Toronto leg—so impactful, not just for fans but for the entire music industry.

A Record-Breaking Run in Canada

The Toronto shows weren’t just well-attended—they were record-breaking. These back-to-back nights catapulted Kendrick Lamar to a new height in Canada, marking the biggest rap concert in Canadian history by revenue. While Toronto has long been a hotspot for global touring acts, this milestone underscores the growing mainstream power of hip-hop, especially when anchored by two genre-defining artists like Kendrick and SZA.

What makes this achievement even more impressive is the context. The Grand National Tour had already been collecting headlines earlier in its North American leg, with shows in Minneapolis, Seattle, and Houston drawing staggering crowds and grossing millions in a single night. But the Toronto stop has become a standout moment, not just because of the revenue, but because of its energy and fan response.

The Grand National Tour: At a Glance

The Grand National Tour kicked off on April 19, 2025, and has since become one of the most successful hip-hop tours of all time. Here are a few quick stats to put things in perspective:

• Launch date: April 19, 2025, in Minneapolis
• Projected tour gross: Estimated to exceed $250 million globally
• Notable records: Highest-grossing rap show in history (Seattle), highest-grossing rap show in Canada (Toronto)
• Tour finale: August 9, 2025, in Stockholm, Sweden

This is more than a tour—it’s a template for how modern hip-hop acts can thrive on the global stage. And Toronto was a pivotal chapter in that story.

A Moment for the Culture

What happened in Toronto was more than just numbers. It was a clear signal that hip-hop stadium tours are not only possible—they’re thriving.

For years, stadium tours were largely dominated by rock, pop, and country artists. Hip-hop was often relegated to arenas or festivals. But Kendrick Lamar and SZA have shown that with the right vision, curation, and execution, rap and R&B acts can fill the world’s largest venues.

Their shows are not just musical performances—they’re immersive experiences. From cutting-edge visuals and stage design to curated setlists that span their entire catalogs, every night is a celebration of their artistry. The chemistry between Kendrick’s precise lyricism and SZA’s ethereal, emotional delivery creates a duality that keeps fans coming back, city after city.

Why Fans Are Showing Up In Record Numbers

Part of the tour’s massive success lies in its fan-first approach. These shows weren’t just about music; they were crafted to make every attendee feel like part of something bigger.

Here’s why fans can’t get enough:

• Setlist variety: Songs range from Kendrick’s early mixtape cuts to Pulitzer-winning anthems like “Alright” and “HUMBLE.” SZA balances with soulful hits like “Kill Bill,” “Snooze,” and “Good Days.”
• Collaborative energy: Though billed as separate sets, the artists occasionally perform together, creating once-in-a-lifetime moments.
• VIP packages and immersive merch: Exclusive merchandise drops, meet-and-greet opportunities, and early access perks add value beyond the music.
• Social media virality: Fan-shot videos and reviews dominate platforms like TikTok and Instagram, driving even more interest in remaining shows.

This tour is more than just entertainment—it’s an experience. And Toronto’s response is proof that fans are eager to show up when artists deliver with heart and precision.

Advice for Future Concert-Goers

Whether you caught Kendrick and SZA live or are planning your next big show, here are some timeless tips for making the most of any concert experience:

1. Get there early

Lines form hours before doors open. Arriving early ensures better merch availability, easier entry, and time to explore the venue.

2. Know the venue rules

Each location has specific rules about bags, cameras, and outside food. Check ahead so you’re not stuck at security.

3. Dress for comfort

Stadium shows mean long hours—opt for layers and comfortable footwear.

4. Stay hydrated

Most venues allow sealed water bottles or have hydration stations. Take advantage.

5. Capture the moment—without losing it

Snag a few pictures or clips, but don’t live through your screen. Enjoy the energy in real time.

These tips work for any major show, whether it’s hip-hop, rock, or pop. The idea is to balance enjoying the performance with making lasting memories.

A Look Ahead: The Final Countdown

With just four shows left on the European leg, excitement is building as the tour approaches its final destination: Stockholm, Sweden, on August 9, 2025. If trends continue, these final shows may set additional records—especially given the momentum created by the North American and UK performances.

For Kendrick Lamar and SZA, this tour may well mark a turning point. It represents not only their continued relevance but their ability to evolve with the times. From the music to the visuals, from ticketing strategy to fan engagement, every piece of the Grand National Tour is a masterclass in modern touring.

Why This Tour Matters

Beyond the numbers, beyond the merch, and beyond the streaming boosts, what’s most significant is what this tour represents. It’s about evolution. About hip-hop taking its rightful place on the global stage. About Black artists leading stadium tours without compromise. About fans feeling seen and heard, no matter where they are.

Kendrick Lamar and SZA didn’t just break records in Toronto—they set a new standard for what a hip-hop tour can be. And as this tour comes to a close, fans and artists alike will be looking at its legacy for years to come.