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Kendrick Lamar performed at the Super Bowl LIX halftime show on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. His performance was notable for several reasons:
Headline Act
Lamar was the solo headliner, marking the first time a solo hip-hop artist has headlined the halftime show. This follows his previous appearance during the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show, where he was part of a lineup celebrating West Coast hip-hop.
Special Guests
SZA joined Lamar on stage, performing their collaborative hits “Luther” and “All The Stars.” Additionally, there were surprise guest appearances by Samuel L. Jackson, who introduced the performance dressed as Uncle Sam, and Serena Williams, who danced during Lamar’s performance of “Not Like Us.”
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Setlist
Lamar’s set included a mix of his hits spanning his career, with songs like “Squabble Up,” “Humble,” “DNA,” and “Euphoria.” He notably performed “Not Like Us,” his recent hit that was part of his public feud with Drake, but he skipped the controversial “pedophile” lyric to keep the performance family-friendly.
Cultural Impact
The performance was significant not only for its entertainment value but also for its cultural commentary. Lamar used the platform to showcase the storytelling aspect of hip-hop, emphasizing its impact and relevance in modern music. His performance included themes of American identity, as evidenced by the dancers forming the shape of the American flag.
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Reaction
The performance received widespread attention, with posts on X (formerly Twitter) showing anticipation and speculation about the setlist and guest appearances. Some posts highlighted the cultural significance of Lamar’s choice for the halftime show, while others debated its appeal to the broader NFL audience.
No Payment for Performance
Like other Super Bowl halftime performers, Lamar did not receive payment for the performance, but the NFL covered all production costs, including travel expenses for the artists.
This halftime show was part of a broader trend of diversifying the halftime musical offerings. Lamar’s performance continued the streak of artists of color headlining the event for several years. The event was broadcast on Fox, with millions tuning in to watch both the game and the halftime show.
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