Latest news with #SquabbleUp
Metro
24-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
SZA proves Glastonbury flop was a fluke but still dwarfed by Kendrick Lamar
SZA hasn't had the easiest time when it comes to UK live performances. Who could forget her Glastonbury headliner slot two years ago? But her London gig with Kendrick Lamar has been a redemption. Having seen the Kill Bill hitmaker fail to make an impact on the Pyramid Stage, the Grand National Tour announcement admittedly left me a little apprehensive. How could she match up to the Humble legend, whose own Glastonbury headliner slot was met with rapturous applause? But SZA held her own, for the most part. Splitting their sets back and forth was the perfect way to make sure the energy kept flowing in Tottenham Stadium. First up was Kendrick, opening the show with a string of energy boosting tracks like Squabble Up and TV On (cut teasingly just before the crowd could scream 'Mustard'). SZA's introduction prompted huge applause from the crowd but this adoration couldn't quite last her entire performance. While the Kiss Me More singer has some stunning vocals and catchy tunes, being K Dot's counterpart didn't serve her well. Kendrick is simply an absolute juggernaut on stage. It's hard to imagine anyone being able to match him in sheer presence — the stadium came alive every time he walked out. It didn't help that SZA seemed to take a minute (or 30) to warm to the gig, choosing not to interact with fans until much later and only really letting her playful personality shine in moments when they were both on stage. Her early sections opted for set pieces over movement around the walkway, and this was unfortunately to her detriment, putting up barriers between herself and the audience. This mirrors her choices at Glastonbury and we all remember how that went. As the London night two gig went on, the clunky sets cleared and SZA appeared to relax into it. We've teamed up with Camp Bestival Dorset to give one lucky Metro reader and their family the chance to win family weekend tickets, worth up to £1,172! Created by families, for families, Camp Bestival combines all the fun of a fantastic family camping holiday with everything you would expect from a perfect and action-packed festival adventure. Headliners include music legend Sir Tom Jones, pop icons Sugababes, plus a carnival-filled live show from electronic music duo Basement Jaxx. Simply enter your details here to be in with a chance of winning four tickets to this epic experience. You have until midnight on 23 July to enter. Good luck! * Open to GB residents (excluding Northern Ireland) aged 18+. Promotion opens at 18:01 on 16/7/25 and closes at 23:59 on 23/7/25. Entrant must submit their first and last name, email address, date of birth and postcode when prompted via the entry form available on (available here). 1 prize available of a family weekend camping ticket, including two (2) adult tickets and up to four (4) child and/or teen tickets in any combination as chosen by the winner to attend Camp Bestival (Lulworth Castle, Dorset) from 31st July 2025 to 3rd August 2025. Maximum 1 entry per person. Attendance is governed by the Camp Bestival Terms and Conditions. Full T&Cs apply, see here. For many fans, her input has sadly been overlooked. The might of Kendrick, especially after his explosive fame after his viral Drake beef, cannot be ignored. And it's not just in his lyrics that he's slamming his rival; according to Viagogo, 47% more global fans searched for tickets to Kendrick than Drake, who headlined Wireless. The difference in numbers could have reportedly filled the O2 Arena 10 times over. Ouch. The weight of this feud could be felt as the entire stadium shouted 'a minor' during Not Like Us, a volume only reached when we finally got to shout 'mustard' later in the gig. It's no surprise then that SZA couldn't quite match Kendrick's presence, although her popularity is rising with her page views tripling on the day the UK tour was announced compared to the day before. Despite her own sections falling short of Kendrick's, their few duets were really where the collaborative tour concept shone. All The Stars was a visual highlight of the show, with the duo elevated on platforms singing to a room lit with tiny stars (also known as phone torches). SZA and Kendrick have an undeniable musical chemistry, as well as an onstage ease with each other that only adds to the harmony. Once you've seen them on stage together, you're left wondering why they ever perform apart. Aside from the sheer dominance of Dot, the show was surprisingly let down by the staging, which remained simple other than the occasional car and a ride-on giant ant (named Anthony). My main gripe is that several songs were sung at the very back of the stage, between the screens. This meant large chunks of songs were blocked from view if you were on either side of the stage. Considering how much money fans have coughed up, to be left watching some songs mainly on a screen is a little disappointing, especially when they could have easily been brought forward into view. This aside, the dancers were some of the best I've seen. Throughout the show they were completely in sync — a truly precision performance, which was never thrown off by the copious amounts of pyrotechnics. More Trending Overall, the tour delivers on what it promises: a solid selection of Kendrick and SZA's biggest tracks with some incredible duets. It almost feels as if the timing is wrong as the Peekaboo rapper is too big post-Super Bowl, while his duet partner has not yet come into her own. There's an undeniable chemistry here, and they put out incredible performances but it's impossible to ignore the gulf in energy between the two artists. Ultimately, this was the Kendrick Tour, and SZA was sadly left playing second fiddle. Still, it was leaps and bounds ahead of her Glastonbury set, so don't count her out of this race. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you.
Hypebeast
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hypebeast
Tyler, the Creator Taps Clipse & Lebron James For "STOP PLAYING WITH ME" Music Video
If dropping his second LP in less than one year wasn't enough for a Monday morning,Tyler, the Creatorhas also revealed the first video treatment forDON'T TAP THE GLASS— a playful star-studded visual for 'STOP PLAYING WITH ME.' FeaturingLeBron JamesandClipsemembersPusha TandMalice, the video sees Tyler wearing a retro number with a new stache and chunky glasses — perhaps, intentionally goofy. In a recent statement, the rapper, who also directed the visual, shared, 'I asked some friends why they don't dance in public and some said because of the fear of being filmed.' 'It made me wonder how much of our human spirit got killed because of the fear of being a meme, all for having a good time,' he added. Unlike the militant aesthetics ofCHROMAKOPIA, the feel of the first video for DON'T TAP THE GLASS is casual, with a similar feel to Kendrick's recent 'Squabble Up' video. Revealing golden grills in up-close shots and red Converse on feet, Tyler dances alone in the still frame — minus sudden appearances from his guests. With his latest project, the rapper wants to unlock egos and get people to dance:'This album was not made for sitting still. Dancing, driving, running any type of movement is recommended to maybe understand the spirit of it. Only at full volume.' See the video in the window above and streamDON'T TAP THE GLASSeverywhere now.
Global News
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Global News
Kendrick Lamar gets 2-minute ovation after ‘Not Like Us' in Drake's hometown
Kendrick Lamar stepped onto Drake's turf on Thursday, playing his first concert in Toronto since the rift between the music superstars went into hyperdrive last year. For the most part, the Los Angeles rapper didn't fan the flames of his feud, even if some ticketholders hoped he might douse the conflict in gasoline. Instead, Lamar mostly took the high road by focusing on the music. As the first of two nights at the Rogers Centre neared its close, Lamar pulled out his ace card with a performance of 'Not Like Us,' the chart-topping diss track that knocked Drake down a few pegs in popular culture. Immediately, phones went up, booties started shaking, and fans shouted along to the contemptuous lyrics that brought Lamar and Drake's rift to its apparent head. Once he was finished, Lamar stood centre stage in a spotlight, his face in shadow, and for the next two minutes he took in the roar of the crowd. Many of them screamed, 'One more time.' Story continues below advertisement Lamar didn't deliver that pleaded encore, but he gave the crowd plenty of other hits to dance to, including 'Squabble Up' and 'TV Off' from his latest album 'GNX' and older favourites 'Humble' and 'All the Stars,' which he performed with his tour mate SZA. 0:45 Drake announces tour, opening night coincides with rival Kendrick Lamar's Superbowl performance The duo are snaking their way across North America and Europe with their Grand National Tour this summer, but their only Canadian dates are in Toronto at a massive stadium that Drake has never played on tour. And so Lamar's moment in the spotlight could be seen as another win in the battle against his rap nemesis. Get breaking National news For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy Drake and Lamar have been entrenched in a highly publicized rap beef that has culminated in a legal battle between the Canadian rapper and the U.S. record label that represents both men. Story continues below advertisement Drake is suing Universal Music Group for defamation for publishing and promoting 'Not Like Us.' In legal documents, Drake says the song's lyrics wrongly accuse him of being a pedophile, jeopardizing his safety and damaging his reputation. None of the allegations have been proven in court. Before the show, how Lamar might play his cards in Toronto loomed as internet forums and local barbershops buzzed with speculation of special guests and what he might say on stage. 2:07 Police investigate shooting at Drake's Toronto mansion amid rapper's beef with Kendrick Lamar Brendan Wong flew in from Calgary for what he described as a 'monumental occasion.' 'I love the music, I love Kendrick, I love SZA, so that's why I'm here, honestly,' he said outside the venue. 'It's not like I'm a religious Drake supporter, you know what I'm saying? I like Kendrick more, so I guess I'm on his side.' Story continues below advertisement Other ticket holders arrived wearing Drake's OVO gear, branded with its famous owl logo. Peter Jin's shirt featured a Canadian flag adorning the wing of the OVO owl. He said he likes the music of both rappers and was hoping for a surprise Drake appearance that might lead to a truce during the show. 'Maybe if they can go to the stage together,' he said. 'And challenge each other (in a rap battle), that would be amazing.' Jin didn't get his wish, though he said no matter how the night went, he would have fun. Outside the venue, a noticeably stronger police foot patrol roamed the premises, though the crowd appeared peaceful. Plans for some Drake fans to congregate in support of Drizzy during the show fizzled when organizers behind an Instagram account promoting the gathering said 'logistical constraints' prevented them from moving forward. Drake was also set to host a livestream Thursday night with American internet personality Kai Cenat, but the streamer later posted those plans were being delayed 'a few more days.' At least one Drake fan at the Rogers Centre came to simply to show his unwavering support, dressed head to toe in OVO memorabilia, including a hat, pants and jacket. Story continues below advertisement Even though he didn't have concert tickets, the fan, who called himself Julian, said he arrived from Whitby, Ont., 'to show who runs this city.' 'I've been a Drake and OVO diehard fan, that's what I was made for,' he said. 'I'm born October the 6th in the 6 (Toronto's nickname) … so I'm just here to support through and through.' 1:58 Shooting at Drake's home puts spotlight on Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar feud Anthony Tran and Krisha Mae came to the Lamar show without much thirst for the drama. They waited several hours in the merchandise line to purchase matching SZA shirts, in support of Lamar's Grammy-winning tour mate. But they admitted that the lingering feud between Drake and Lamar was still on their minds. 'Everyone's talking about it, so we had to get tickets because of the beef,' he said. Story continues below advertisement Tran said while the hype surrounding the rappers' bad blood drove them to buy seats, it wasn't the main reason they showed up. 'I think both of them are really good songwriters, so I don't really care about the personalities,' he added, before rethinking his answer. 'Honestly, I do like Drake better. I'm sorry. Yeah, but we are from Toronto, so we got to rep Drake.'
Hamilton Spectator
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hamilton Spectator
Kendrick Lamar gets two-minute ovation after ‘Not Like Us' in Drake's hometown
TORONTO - Kendrick Lamar stepped onto Drake's turf on Thursday, playing his first concert in Toronto since the rift between the music superstars went into hyperdrive last year. For the most part, the Los Angeles rapper didn't fan the flames of his feud, even if some ticketholders hoped he might douse the conflict in gasoline. Instead, Lamar mostly took the high road by focusing on the music. As the first of two nights at the Rogers Centre neared its close, Lamar pulled out his ace card with a performance of 'Not Like Us,' the chart-topping diss track that knocked Drake down a few pegs in popular culture. Immediately, phones went up, booties started shaking, and fans shouted along to the contemptuous lyrics that brought Lamar and Drake's rift to its apparent head. Once he was finished, Lamar stood centre stage in a spotlight, his face in shadow, and for the next two minutes he took in the roar of the crowd. Many of them screamed, 'One more time.' Lamar didn't deliver that pleaded encore, but he gave the crowd plenty of other hits to dance to, including 'Squabble Up' and 'TV Off' from his latest album 'GNX' and older favourites 'Humble' and 'All the Stars,' which he performed with his tour mate SZA. The duo are snaking their way across North America and Europe with their Grand National Tour this summer, but their only Canadian dates are in Toronto at a massive stadium that Drake has never played on tour. And so Lamar's moment in the spotlight could be seen as another win in the battle against his rap nemesis. Drake and Lamar have been entrenched in a highly publicized rap beef that has culminated in a legal battle between the Canadian rapper and the U.S. record label that represents both men. Drake is suing Universal Music Group for defamation for publishing and promoting 'Not Like Us.' In legal documents, Drake says the song's lyrics wrongly accuse him of being a pedophile, jeopardizing his safety and damaging his reputation. None of the allegations have been proven in court. Before the show, how Lamar might play his cards in Toronto loomed as internet forums and local barbershops buzzed with speculation of special guests and what he might say on stage. Brendan Wong flew in from Calgary for what he described as a 'monumental occasion.' 'I love the music, I love Kendrick, I love SZA, so that's why I'm here, honestly,' he said outside the venue. 'It's not like I'm a religious Drake supporter, you know what I'm saying? I like Kendrick more, so I guess I'm on his side.' Other ticket holders arrived wearing Drake's OVO gear, branded with its famous owl logo. Peter Jin's shirt featured a Canadian flag adorning the wing of the OVO owl. He said he likes the music of both rappers and was hoping for a surprise Drake appearance that might lead to a truce during the show. 'Maybe if they can go to the stage together,' he said. 'And challenge each other (in a rap battle), that would be amazing.' Jin didn't get his wish, though he said no matter how the night went, he would have fun. Outside the venue, a noticeably stronger police foot patrol roamed the premises, though the crowd appeared peaceful. Plans for some Drake fans to congregate in support of Drizzy during the show fizzled when organizers behind an Instagram account promoting the gathering said 'logistical constraints' prevented them from moving forward. Drake was also set to host a livestream Thursday night with American internet personality Kai Cenat, but the streamer later posted those plans were being delayed 'a few more days.' At least one Drake fan at the Rogers Centre came to simply to show his unwavering support, dressed head to toe in OVO memorabilia, including a hat, pants and jacket. Even though he didn't have concert tickets, the fan, who called himself Julian, said he arrived from Whitby, Ont., 'to show who runs this city.' 'I've been a Drake and OVO diehard fan, that's what I was made for,' he said. 'I'm born October the 6th in the 6 (Toronto's nickname) … so I'm just here to support through and through.' Anthony Tran and Krisha Mae came to the Lamar show without much thirst for the drama. They waited several hours in the merchandise line to purchase matching SZA shirts, in support of Lamar's Grammy-winning tour mate. But they admitted that the lingering feud between Drake and Lamar was still on their minds. 'Everyone's talking about it, so we had to get tickets because of the beef,' he said. Tran said while the hype surrounding the rappers' bad blood drove them to buy seats, it wasn't the main reason they showed up. 'I think both of them are really good songwriters, so I don't really care about the personalities,' he added, before rethinking his answer. 'Honestly, I do like Drake better. I'm sorry. Yeah, but we are from Toronto, so we got to rep Drake.' This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 12, 2025.
Hamilton Spectator
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hamilton Spectator
Kendrick Lamar performs in Drake's hometown for the first time since onset of feud
TORONTO - Kendrick Lamar stepped onto Drake's turf on Thursday, performing his first concert in Toronto since the rift between the superstars went into hyperdrive last year. But if time heals all wounds, many fans in attendance at Rogers Centre seemed more eager to watch the sparks fly. Brendan Wong flew in from Calgary for what he described as a 'monumental occasion,' a chance to see the first of two nights on Lamar's Grand National Tour with SZA. 'I love the music, I love Kendrick, I love SZA, so that's why I'm here, honestly,' he said outside the venue. 'It's not like I'm a religious Drake supporter, you know what I'm saying? I like Kendrick more, so I guess I'm on his side.' The question of allegiance loomed heavy outside the venue as some ticket holders arrived wearing Drake's OVO gear branded with its famous owl. But plans for some Drake fans to congregate outside the venue in support of Drizzy fizzled when organizers behind an Instagram account promoting the gathering said 'logistical constraints' prevented them from moving forward. At least one Drake fan was there simply to show his unwavering support, dressed head to toe in OVO memorabilia, including a hat, pants and jacket. Even though he didn't have tickets, the fan, who called himself Julian, said he came in from Whitby, Ont., 'to show who runs this city.' 'I've been a Drake and OVO diehard fan, that's what I was made for,' he said. 'I'm born October the 6th (Drake's birthday) in the 6 (Toronto's nickname) … so I'm just here, you know, mean to support through and through.' Anthony Tran and Krisha Mae came to the Lamar show without much thirst for the drama. They waited several hours in the merchandise line to purchase matching SZA shirts, in support of Lamar's Grammy-winning tour mate. But they admitted that the lingering feud between Drake and Lamar was still on their minds. 'Everyone's talking about it, so we had to get tickets because of the beef,' he said. Tran said while the hype surrounding the rappers' bad blood drove them to buy seats, it wasn't the main reason they showed up. 'I think both of them are really good songwriters, so I don't really care about the personalities,' he added, before rethinking his answer. 'Honestly, I do like Drake better. I'm sorry. Yeah, but we are from Toronto, so we got to rep Drake.' Lamar kicked off the show with several tracks from his 2024 album 'GNX,' including 'Squabble Up' and 'TV Off,' but he offered little on the Drake beef. 'Toronto, you ready to party?' He asked to a roaring response. Lamar typically performs his chart-topping diss track 'Not Like Us' near the end of the show. Drake was set to host a livestream Thursday night with American internet personality Kai Cenat, but the streamer later posted those plans were being delayed 'a few more days.' Drake and Lamar have been entrenched in a highly publicized feud that has culminated in a legal battle between the Canadian rapper and the U.S. record label that represents both men. Drake is suing Universal Music Group for defamation for publishing and promoting 'Not Like Us.' In legal documents, Drake says the song's lyrics wrongly accuse him of being a pedophile, jeopardizing his safety and damaging his reputation. None of the allegations have been proven in court. In court filings, Universal calls Drake's suit a baseless 'attack on the commercial and creative success of the rap artist who defeated him.' This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 12, 2025.
