Inside The TDE Christmas Concert: Kendrick Lamar, Jay Rock, SZA, And More

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The charitable event brought Hip-Hop superstars to the Watts community.

11th Annual TDE Holiday Charity Concert

Laetitia Rumford/VIBE

The 11th Annual TDE Christmas Concert & Toy Drive was for the upliftment of the community and the empowerment of Hip-Hop culture. 

Thursday morning (Dec. 12), an endless crowd lined up down Compton Ave. in Watts, CA at the Nickerson Gardens to see their favorite Top Dawg Entertainment musicians perform, anticipating a handful of special guests and an unforgettable day on the West Coast. The gloomy morning was brightened by the sheer joy among those native to the community and outsiders who are only tied to the neighborhood through the storytelling of their Hip-Hop favorites. 

A few quick California rain showers did not wash away any excitement as the affair kicked off bringing dozens to the stage through impromptu talent shows and local acts. As the day continued, the sun attempted to peek through thick, grey clouds and the audience thickened, bringing more fans and more donations.  

“It’s always a full-circle moment when we get to come back every year, especially growing up here and coming from this neighborhood,” explained Terrance “Punch” Henderson, rapper and President of TDE to VIBE backstage. TDE signee Ray Vaugh shared similar sentiments. 

 “I’d rather do this than do the other shows. Of course, you get the money but these are the moments that matter. When you give back to the community…I feel like this is our due diligence as artists.”

To the left, a small child dances to Tyler, the Creator’s “Sticky” which echoes from the stage as her mother enthusiastically records. To the right, a man sells bean pies and periodicals to curious onlookers.  Take a few more steps to see D Smoke and Jason Martin dapping up and making plans. With the plates sold and served by Trap Kitchen, Vurger Guyz, and Big B the chef, support of local talent was fully on display. 

SZA takes the stage at the TDE Christmas concert in Watts pic.twitter.com/nTtmm8wtfn

— VIBE Magazine (@VibeMagazine) December 13, 2024

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Once the audience settled in, it was clear everyone was ready for the promised TDE showcase as a few crowd-control obstacles resulted in a temporary delay. Once the show did begin, each artist connected with the crowd through their fan-favorite records and fun interactions that all who made their way through the rich, dusty, campus are sure to remember forever. 

Starting in the late afternoon, the anticipated show began with performances from Devin Malik, Zacari, Ray Vaughn, SiR, and Isaiah Rashad with a surprise appearance from Lefty Gunplay, who’s expanded his audience since being featured in Kendrick Lamar’s surprise GNX album. 

While the sun never fully came from behind the clouds, a waxing gibbous moon showed up for its job, providing a natural glow among the bright stage lights keeping everyone’s vision focused. The crowd erupted with back-to-back performances from certified superstars SZA and Kendrick Lamar, who both shined in their respective glory in short, yet effective sets, with the rapper performing “squabble up” for the first time.  A surprise drop-in from Memphis native GloRilla brought another thunderous applause as fans changed along to her “TGIF” anthem. 

Next, Doechii brought her Swamp energy to Watts, carrying on the Southern rap girl energy introduced to the Christmas concert by Glo before her.  Entering the stage to fans chanting her name, the Grammy-nominated rapper performed “BOOM BAP,” “NISSAN ALTIMA,” and “What It Is.”

Ab-Soul continued the lyrical showcase with “FOMF” and “All That” joined by Jason Martin. Formerly known professionally as Problem, the Compton rep continued, performing solo records. 

Jay Rock closed the event with a homecoming performance in the projects where it all started, opening his set with his standout verse on Kendrick Lamar’s “Money Trees.” The hometown hero graciously thanked his community for showing up and showing out. Backed by family, friends, and fans on stage, the Watts native made sure the event was a “Win” for all. 

As the excited crowd was ushered to exit, the DJ blared Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” with the chart-topper standing as a personal, symbolic track for victory for those who call L.A. home. The concert is just one of two days planned by TDE to ensure the community has a memorable holiday season. Festivities continue on Friday with family-friendly, winter holiday activities.  Take a look inside the 11th TDE Christmas Concert & Toy Drive below.

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