On Sunday, Kendrick Lamar opened the Grammys with a nod to America’s tumultuous state.
Featuring an American flag display and soldiers, Lamar launched into “XXX”, before the words “This Is a Satire by Kendrick Lamar” appeared and U2 took the stage.
Lamar also performed “DNA” from his 2017 album DAMN., before Dave Chappelle took the stage to deliver a poignant message:
“Hi. I’m Dave Chapelle. And I just wanted to remind the audience that the only thing more frightening than watching a Black man be honest in America is being an honest Black man in America. Sorry for the interruption. Please continue.”
E! News shared the exclusive this morning that the rapper would be joined by U2 and Chappelle, while host James Corden told Ryan Seacrest on the carpet, “Kendrick [Lamar] opens with Bono and The Edge with Dave Chapelle in what is quite possibly the most unique opening to a Grammys you’ve ever seen. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
Lamar received seven nominations this year, just behind JAY-Z who was nominated for eight awards. He’s already taken home the award for Best Rap Song, Best Rap Performance, and Best Music Video.