Kendrick Lamar, Big Sean, Rick Ross, Lil Wayne and More Rock Power 106’s Cali Christmas

What would be the best gift for a hip-hop fan this holiday season? How about a concert that features many of the best artists of 2012 all on one bill? Los Angeles radio station Power 106’s annual Cali Christmas brought together the likes of Rick Ross, Big Sean, Meek Mill, 2 Chainz, and Kendrick Lamar for an early holiday gift.

The sold out Gibson Amphitheater at Universal City Walk was a party from start to finish with energetic performances, hit records and papable excitement. Cali Christmas was a live playlist of the hottest tracks from 2012—without the commerical interruptions. Hosted by radio personality Big Boy and the rest of his “Neighborhood,” Cali Christmas lived up to the hype and beyond.

Solid performances by Big Sean, 2 Chainz and a special appearance by newly signed Def Jam aritst Trinidad James were just some of the highlights of the event. The show reached its apex with the performance of headliner Kendrick Lamar.

Kendrick made a statement during the show that he indeed is ready to set the standard and take the torch. He not only changed the pace of the show with his usual lyrical assault, but also showed his star power by ushering in a slew of guests on stage. The Compton native integrated J. Cole, E-40, Lil Wayne and his TDE fam into what arguably was one of his strongest performances to date. His star shined bright in the presence of legends and kings. Kendrick was in complete control and performed his set as authentically as he always has with new cuts like “Money Trees” and classic K .Dot tracks like “P&P,” while the capacity crowd sung the chorus to “Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe.”

There were plenty of gifts for fans at Cali Christmas on Friday night. Check out some footage below. —Eric Montgomery (@E_MONT_3)