On February 9, 2025 Kendrick Lamar performed as the first solo hip-hop artist to headline the Super Bowl LIX halftime show at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.
People worldwide wanted to see Lamar perform as the first solo hip-hop star to appear at the Super Bowl halftime show.
The show began with Samuel L. Jackson presenting Uncle Sam in a humorous costume. Just before the political start Jackson’s figure delivered thoughts about rap and urban American culture. He defined what would follow.
Lamar’s setlist featured some of his most iconic tracks, including “Humble” and “DNA,” much to the excitement of the crowd.
The stadium erupted in cheers as Lamar transitioned into his powerful anthem “DNA,” showcasing his lyrical prowess and energetic stage presence.
SZA made a surprise appearance, joining Lamar for a stunning rendition of “All the Stars.” Together Lamar and SZA gave a stunning performance that stood out through bright lighting and complex dance moves.
Serena Williams joined the show making her presence boost the performance meaning.
She added special importance to the show because of her past connections to both Lamar and Drake making their interactions in the background a central part of the event.
The performance took a shocking turn when Lamar performed “Not Like Us,” a song widely seen as a diss track aimed at fellow rapper Drake.
Everyone wondered if Lamar would perform the song but their curiosity grew during the start of the track.
Court requirements caused Lamar to revise the performing version of the song for his Super Bowl presentation.
Despite modifying the lyrics and adjusting the song Lamar kept the performance intense and powerful which made it the main topic of the event.
As Lamar performed “Not Like Us,” many fans were left questioning the appropriateness of airing such a personal conflict at an event watched by millions worldwide. People reacted in contrasting ways to Lamar’s new style of artistic showing.
People had varied feedback about this performance on their social media accounts. Some fans praised Lamar’s bravery in bringing hip-hop culture to the forefront of mainstream entertainment, while others called the performance “underwhelming” and criticized its aggressive tone.
People recognize Kendrick Lamar’s skill as a lyricist yet they did not enjoy his halftime show performance. The audience shows their respect for Lamar yet calls his show the worst halftime routine they have seen.
The criticisms didn’t stop there. Viewers felt Lamar’s Super Bowl performance failed to match the remarkable productions by Rihanna and Beyoncé.
“This is the Super Bowl, not a poetry slam,” one viewer commented, reflecting the sentiment of those who felt that Lamar’s performance lacked the grandeur typically associated with the event.
Everyone will remember Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX show for challenging boundaries head-on. Despite strong acclaim or negative reception for the show it will continue to spark arguments across different audiences.
A surprise event happened at the halftime show as controversy continued to grow. One of Lamar’s performers displayed an unauthorized mixed Sudanese-Palestinian flag as an unwelcome surprise.
The security team arrested the performer because he broke NFL guidelines. Network cameras blocked the flag while security teams banned the performer from all future NFL events.
The NFL explained they had not agreed for the performer to display the flag at halftime. The event created more pressure for Lamar even though he did not intend it to happen.
The NFL made an official apology to Lil Wayne after failing to choose him as the show headliner following the controversial performance. The NFL had difficulties finding suitable talent to perform at a high-profile event.
Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show created important talks between hip-hop devotees and mainstream music audience.
By featuring his personal fights and political views at the Super Bowl Lamar caused debate about what belonged at an event of that scale.
Lamar received reactions from fans who both loved and disliked his performance at Super Bowl LIX. People saw his creation as a successful musical expression although others evaluated it as a poor strategic choice.
People will remember Lamar’s halftime show as one of the most significant performances during Super Bowl history.
Though Kendrick Lamar broke new ground at his Super Bowl performance it made many spectators feel uncomfortable.
His bold decision to perform “Not Like Us” and incorporate personal disputes into such a widely broadcasted event caused many to ask: was the Super Bowl halftime show the right platform for such a statement
Feature Image Credit: (Youtube/ NFL)