Rappers Share the Stage More Than Ever During Summer 2016

Now that fans at concerts have moved away from raising their lighters in the air to holding up illuminated cell phone screens to acknowledge their favorite artist onstage, one other element has also worked its way into being a staple of the live concert experience: the surprise guest.

This component has now become an exciting part of what fans expect to see when they head to a show, especially one with a larger production value. At the same time, it also allows artists to get creative with who they bring out and how this elevates their showmanship in a live capacity. As concert ticket prices rise, so does the idea that the show is guaranteed to be a memorable night not to be missed. Along with that same expectation comes an added pressure for artists to bring out other reputed guests throughout their tour runs.

While artists such as Kanye West typically prefer to act alone while on the road, the likes of Drake and Diddy are making their concerts an extended family affair, with all respective parties putting on incredible live performances. Drizzy had more friends show up to his Summer Sixteen tour than fans could keep up with. From A Boogie to Bun B to Eminem and more, he showed love to the newcomers and veterans alike. Diddy embraced his hip-hop pals from the past and present with names like Yeezy, Travi$ Scott and Gucci Mane hitting the stage for the Bad Boy reunion tour.

Regardless of what the future of live entertainment may hold, it’s without a doubt that Summer 2016 was full of surprise performances by some very unexpected guests, making for plenty of Instagram-worthy moments (and of course, a little FOMO for those watching at home). If there's anything to take away from the shows this summer, it's that it was all love onstage.

Take a look at our gallery of artists sharing the stage more than ever this summer.