Marcus Mumford has shared a memorable story about the first time he met rapper Kendrick Lamar, describing a backstage encounter at Bonnaroo Music Festival that left a lasting impression. Speaking on the SmartLess podcast, the Mumford & Sons frontman recalled being summoned to Lamar's dressing room after a set, only to find the rapper mid-change and unfazed by the presence of a guest, an act Mumford praised as a display of genuine self-assurance.

Mumford said he was told Lamar had personally requested to see him, joking that "when Kendrick calls, you come, because he's the king." Upon entering, he found Lamar largely undressed and happy to chat regardless, a moment Mumford summed up as "real confidence" and "swag". Lamar has played Bonnaroo three times, in 2012, 2015 and 2023, with Mumford & Sons appearing at the same festival in 2015. Mumford is currently touring North America with his band's Prizefighter Tour, including upcoming dates in Minnesota, Iowa, Atlanta and three shows at New York's Madison Square Garden.