Clueless Dad’s Accidental Encounter with Superstar SZA Steals the Show at Cardiff Concert
Music fans flocked to Cardiff’s Principality Stadium for an unforgettable night as icons Kendrick Lamar and SZA delivered electrifying performances on their much-anticipated “Grand National Tour.” Yet, for one concertgoer, the headline act wasn’t the only surprise of the evening—a chance encounter in the city centre became a story to remember.
Alex Westley, hailing from Bedford, had originally travelled to Cardiff to accompany his son Julian, a keen Kendrick Lamar fan. Like many supportive parents, Alex planned to tag along mainly as company. Unbeknownst to him, he would soon find himself chatting with one of the chart-topping stars about to take to the stage.
Recounting the incident, Alex revealed he struck up a friendly conversation with a woman he described as “nice”—completely oblivious to her celebrity status. The exchange took place just hours before the concert, and Alex’s lack of recognition turned an ordinary interaction into a truly memorable anecdote. Not knowing her identity, he asked her casually if she was attending the gig that evening in Cardiff.
The woman, who was in fact the acclaimed R&B artist SZA, reportedly stifled a giggle and, with a playful grin, told Alex she would not be part of the concert. She then made her way off, likely amused by the charming misunderstanding.
Adding to the serendipity of the moment, SZA had earlier complimented Alex’s De La Soul t-shirt, calling it “smoking.” Alex took this to heart, joking afterwards that he’d wear the shirt to every gig from now on in hopes of more memorable encounters with music royalty.
Reflecting on the meeting, Alex said, “It’s one of those things; we go to so many gigs and meet so many people. It was a really pleasant encounter.” He emphasised how approachable and kind SZA had been, noting that some celebrities can often be guarded or standoffish. Instead, she was warm and engaging, turning what could have been an ordinary chat into a moment to cherish.
The event didn’t go unnoticed by Alex’s son, Julian, although he missed the chance to meet SZA himself. Asked ahead of the show what he was most looking forward to, Julian expressed excitement for the prospect of seeing both Kendrick Lamar and SZA perform together, praising SZA’s beautiful voice in particular.
Upon hearing this, Alex couldn’t resist a light-hearted quip, telling his son, “I already have,” referring to his earlier encounter with the singer.
With the Cardiff concert now behind them, Kendrick Lamar and SZA continue their “Grand National Tour” with a string of upcoming performances, including a major stop at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Judging by the warm reception in Cardiff, it’s clear that British audiences are eager for more.
Alex’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes the most memorable moments at a concert aren’t just on stage, but also in the interactions and serendipities that unfold off it. For one unassuming dad, a simple act of kindness and curiosity created a unique showbiz tale that will no doubt be retold for years to come.
As the music world continues to bring people together, stories like Alex’s highlight the unpredictable and joyful encounters that can happen when stars and fans cross paths—sometimes even before the curtain goes up.