Kendrick Lamar is enjoying one of the most successful runs of his career. His latest album, GNX, has received universal acclaim, with critics and fans alike praising its introspective themes and experimental sound. The rapper currently dominates the Billboard Hot 100, holding seven of the top ten spots. His track “Squabble Up” has become his third number-one hit of 2024 and fifth overall. Amid this career high, Lamar is preparing for his Grand National tour with SZA, which will cover major cities across North America. However, the addition of two new dates has sparked curiosity and further fueled his ongoing feud with Drake.
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A Second Toronto Show Sparks Speculation
In a surprising move, Kendrick Lamar announced two additional stops on his Grand National tour. While one of these stops in Los Angeles feels like a natural addition—GNX is deeply rooted in California culture—the second new date has raised eyebrows. Lamar will now perform not one but two shows in Toronto, Drake’s hometown, on June 12 and June 13.
The timing of these performances is notable. Falling just days before Father’s Day, some fans have speculated that this could be a veiled jab at Drake, given long-standing rumors and jabs about his parenting in previous rap battles. While there’s little concrete evidence to support this theory, Kendrick’s deliberate and calculated approach to his career makes it hard to dismiss entirely. The choice of Toronto, combined with the added Los Angeles date, feels like a subtle power move. As fans know, Kendrick rarely does anything without intention.
The Feud That Won’t Die
The Kendrick Lamar-Drake rivalry has been a dominant storyline in hip-hop this year. Both artists have thrown subliminal (and sometimes not-so-subliminal) shots at each other in their music and public appearances. This feud has also fueled massive success for Lamar, with two of his chart-topping hits, including “Not Like Us,” being widely interpreted as digs at Drake.
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Adding fuel to the fire, Drake recently filed a lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG), accusing the label of using bots to artificially inflate streaming numbers for Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” According to Drake, UMG is colluding with Spotify to prioritize Kendrick’s music while downplaying his own. While Kendrick has remained silent on these allegations, the massive success of GNX suggests he’s more focused on dominating the charts than engaging in public squabbles.
Purposeful Moves or Coincidence?
Fans have taken to social media to debate the significance of Kendrick’s Toronto encore performance. Some see it as a direct challenge to Drake on his home turf. Others view it as a testament to Lamar’s global appeal and ability to sell out back-to-back shows even in his rival’s city. The dates also underscore Kendrick’s intentionality as an artist. With GNX exploring themes of legacy, loyalty, and competition, it’s hard to imagine this move isn’t part of a broader narrative.
Kendrick has often let his work speak for itself, avoiding public feuds and focusing on his artistry. Yet, his subtle power plays, like adding these tour dates, show he’s aware of the optics and the buzz they generate. Whether or not the Toronto addition was meant as a flex, it’s undoubtedly keeping his name—and his album—in the conversation.
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Lamar’s Continued Reign
Despite the drama, Kendrick Lamar is proving why he’s one of the greatest rappers of his generation. His ability to dominate charts, sell out tours, and generate critical acclaim speaks volumes about his influence. The addition of a second Toronto date might feel like a chess move in his ongoing rivalry with Drake, but it also highlights his confidence in his craft and his ability to captivate audiences anywhere.
Meanwhile, Drake has yet to respond publicly to the new Toronto date, focusing instead on his lawsuit against UMG. As the two continue to battle it out—whether through music, streaming numbers, or subtle tour decisions—fans can’t help but stay tuned. One thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar’s Grand National tour is shaping up to be more than just a musical event; it’s becoming a statement of dominance.
For now, all eyes are on Toronto as Kendrick prepares to take his GNX success story to the heart of his rival’s territory. Whether it’s a calculated dig or just business as usual, one thing is for sure—Kendrick Lamar knows how to keep us guessing.
