Pop stars have been performing with orchestras since as long as there have been pop stars, but an upcoming orchestral collaboration featuring hip-hop pathbreaker Kendrick Lamar looks to be particularly exciting.
On Oct. 20, Lamar will make a one-time appearance with the National Symphony Orchestra at Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Lamar will perform songs from his acclaimed new album To Pimp a Butterfly.
This will be the first orchestral collaboration for Lamar, who's quickly risen to become one of the world's most popular and well-respected young rappers. A native of Compton, California, the 28-year-old Lamar was quickly embraced by rap veterans—particularly those from the West Coast, such as Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg.
This spring, Lamar released his third full-length studio album; To Pimp a Butterfly earned critical raves and hit the top of the U.S. album charts. Lamar broke even further into mainstream success when he joined superstar Taylor Swift on a version of "Bad Blood" that reached #1 on Billboard's Hot 100.
As the Washington Post notes, the National Symphony has previously performed with guest musicians including Trey Anastasio (Phish) and the legendary rapper Nas.
Tickets for Lamar's performance with the orchestra went on sale to Kennedy Center members this morning, and were to go on sale to the general public tomorrow morning—but Kennedy Center reports that the tickets have already sold out.
Love the music?
Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.
Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.
YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.