Videos by According2HipHop
Kendrick Lamar showed up and showed out at Top Dawg Entertainment’s 12th annual Christmas Concert and Toy Drive on Thursday (Dec. 18) in Watts, Los Angeles. The rapper, no longer signed to the storied West Coast label, joined frequent collaborator SZA for a surprise performance that had the crowd buzzing.
The event, held at Nickerson Gardens, was stacked with TDE talent—Doechii, Isaiah Rashad, Jay Rock, Lance Skiiiwalker, Ray Vaughn, Ab-Soul, and Zacari all hit the stage—while special guests added extra star power. Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre came through with classic hits like “The Next Episode” and Dre’s verse on 2Pac’s “California Love,” and R&B favorites Mario and Monica brought smooth vibes to the night.
The crowd was buzzing with excitement, but things really hit a high note when the night’s biggest surprise performers, SZA and Kendrick Lamar, took the stage. They performed their recent collabs “Luther” and “30 For 30,” along with other songs like “squabble up.”
Kendrick Lamar performs "Squabble Up" at the TDE Christmas Concert ‼️ pic.twitter.com/1CvHO8CBeZ
— VIBE Magazine (@VibeMagazine) December 19, 2025
Beyond the music, the concert is always about giving back. Fans were asked to bring unwrapped toys, ensuring kids in the local community had something to unwrap on Christmas morning. Lamar’s choice to show up in the very projects where the TDE legacy began sent a message louder than any verse: hip-hop shines brightest when it’s rooted in community and connection.
Fans left not just with memories of star-studded performances, but with the reminder that the true gift of the season is extending joy and love to all.
