Kendrick Lamar proved once again that he supports rising talent — bringing out AZ Chike during his GNX Tour at SoFi Stadium last Friday, in a moment the L.A. rapper described as a “monumental achievement.”
The appearance came after some determined — and slightly desperate — efforts from Chike, who revealed the behind-the-scenes story in a nearly 20-minute TikTok breakdown.
“I Was Ready to Crash Out!”
AZ Chike had previously told TMZ Hip Hop he was determined to get on that stage — no matter what it took. He wasn’t bluffing. According to Chike, he sent Kendrick a voice memo last week joking that he was “ready to crash out” if he wasn’t included.
Apparently, Kendrick saved the memo, which gave Chike hope that he’d be added to the show. Days later, after reaching out to Kendrick’s assistant and their mutual friend J Real, Chike was invited to rehearsals — and just like that, his dreams became reality.
A Hometown Milestone
The two performed their track “Peekaboo” live in front of a massive hometown crowd, and AZ Chike described the moment as unforgettable — but also far from easy.
“It was no cakewalk,” he told fans on TikTok. “Everything had to be tight. It’s Kendrick’s stage, man. You don’t come unprepared.”
From SoFi to Gatorade
The collaboration’s momentum didn’t end at SoFi. “Peekaboo” is now featured in a Gatorade commercial, extending the song’s reach far beyond the GNX tour and giving both artists a solid commercial win.
Not Everyone Got a Mic
But while AZ Chike had his big night, not all GNX collaborators got their moment. Lefty Gunplay, who features on “TV Off,” apparently didn’t make the cut — with no invite to rehearsals or live appearances, leaving fans wondering why he was left out.
Kendrick Continues to Elevate the Culture
The GNX album is already being hailed as a cultural milestone, not just for its bold sound, but for how it’s elevating new voices from Los Angeles. AZ Chike’s story is just one example of how far persistence and talent can take you — especially when you have Kendrick listening.
Key Takeaways:
- AZ Chike performed with Kendrick Lamar at SoFi Stadium during the GNX tour.
- His appearance came after sending Kendrick a voice memo begging for a shot.
- The two performed their collab “Peekaboo,” now featured in a Gatorade ad.
- AZ Chike said the experience was tough but life-changing.
- Lefty Gunplay, another GNX artist, was reportedly left out of the tour.
Would you hustle like AZ Chike for a moment on Kendrick’s stage? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
