While the anticipation already builds for Super Bowl LX in 2026, it’s important to reflect on the spectacular halftime show that graced our screens just a few months ago during Super Bowl LIX. The Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, held on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a landmark event, particularly for fans of hip-hop. Headlined by the iconic Kendrick Lamar, the performance was a powerful and culturally resonant spectacle that left audiences both thrilled and deeply engaged.
The Headliner: Kendrick Lamar Takes Center Stage
The announcement in September 2024 that Kendrick Lamar would be the solo headliner for the Super Bowl LIX halftime show was met with considerable excitement and some debate. While many lauded the choice as a fitting recognition of Lamar’s artistic brilliance and cultural impact, some felt that it was a snub to other prominent artists, particularly with the Super Bowl taking place in Lil Wayne’s hometown.
However, any doubts were quickly dispelled when Lamar took the stage. His performance was not just a concert; it was a meticulously crafted artistic statement, rich with symbolism and cultural references. This marked a significant moment as Lamar became the first solo rapper to headline the Super Bowl halftime show, further solidifying hip-hop’s central place in mainstream popular culture.
What people were asking:
Was Kendrick Lamar the sole headliner? Yes, Kendrick Lamar was the primary headliner for the Super Bowl LIX halftime show. This was a historic moment as he was the first solo rapper to take on this prestigious role.
Had Kendrick Lamar performed at the Super Bowl before? Yes, Lamar previously performed at Super Bowl LVI in 2022 as part of a star-studded lineup that included Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Mary J. Blige.
What was the reaction to Kendrick Lamar being chosen? The reaction was polarized. While many celebrated his selection as a momentous occasion for hip-hop, some felt other artists should have been chosen, sparking discussions within the music industry and among fans.
Did he bring any special guests? Yes, Kendrick Lamar was joined by several notable guests during his performance, including singer-songwriter SZA, actor Samuel L. Jackson, tennis superstar Serena Williams, and DJ and record producer Mustard.
A Performance to Remember: Key Moments and Themes
Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show was far from a straightforward medley of hits. It was a carefully constructed narrative that delved into themes of cultural identity, social commentary, and personal triumph. Several key moments and visual elements contributed to the performance’s profound impact.
The show opened with Lamar and his dancers emerging from a 1980s Buick GNX, a car with deep personal significance to the artist, onto a stage designed to resemble a part of a PlayStation controller. This striking visual immediately captured the audience’s attention and set a unique tone for the performance.
Samuel L. Jackson made recurring appearances throughout the show, dressed as Uncle Sam, providing satirical commentary and advice to Lamar between songs. This theatrical element served to highlight the cultural divides within America and added a layer of social critique to the performance.
Lamar’s dancers, dressed in solid red, white, and blue outfits, formed the American flag at one point, with Lamar positioned to seemingly divide them. This powerful imagery was interpreted by many as a commentary on the divisions within contemporary American society.
In a surprising and culturally significant moment, tennis icon Serena Williams took the stage to perform the C-Walk, a dance deeply rooted in West Coast hip-hop culture. Her presence added another layer of cultural resonance to Lamar’s performance.
Midway through his set, Lamar alluded to his ongoing feud with Drake, delivering the line, “They tried to rig the game, but you can’t fake influence,” before transitioning into his Grammy-winning diss track, “Not Like Us.” However, in a notable alteration, Lamar omitted the word “pedophile” from the lyrics, replacing it with a moment of silence, likely due to FCC and legal concerns surrounding the song’s content. He also performed “Luther” and “All the Stars” alongside SZA.
Lamar’s wardrobe also carried significance. His jacket prominently displayed the word “GLORIA,” which many interpreted as a tribute to his song “Gloria” from his then-upcoming album GNX, symbolizing his artistic commitment and his place in hip-hop history.
The performance concluded with Lamar dropping the phrase “Game Over,” seemingly a final salvo in his ongoing musical rivalry.
What people were asking:
What songs did Kendrick Lamar perform? While a definitive setlist isn’t always immediately clear, reports indicate he performed snippets and full versions of tracks including an unreleased song reportedly titled “Bodies,” “Luther” and “All the Stars” with SZA, and his controversial hit “Not Like Us.”
What was the meaning behind the visuals and staging? The Buick GNX, the Uncle Sam character, the dancers forming the American flag, and the PlayStation controller stage all contributed to the layered symbolism and narrative of the performance, touching on themes of personal journey, cultural commentary, and societal divisions.
Why did Serena Williams appear on stage? Her appearance performing the C-Walk was seen as a powerful cultural statement, connecting the worlds of sports and hip-hop and highlighting the influence of West Coast culture.
Did he perform “Not Like Us” in its entirety? No, while he did perform “Not Like Us,” he notably omitted the controversial word “pedophile” from the lyrics, opting for a moment of silence instead. This was likely due to broadcast regulations and ongoing legal issues related to the song.
What was the significance of the “GLORIA” jacket? It was interpreted as a nod to his song “Gloria” and a broader statement about his artistic glory and legacy.
What was the overall message of the performance? Many critics and viewers interpreted the performance as a powerful statement on Black artistry, cultural identity, and social commentary within the American landscape.
Reception and Impact: A Performance That Sparked Conversation
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime show was met with widespread acclaim from critics, who lauded its artistic ambition, powerful imagery, and Lamar’s electrifying stage presence. However, fan reception was more mixed. Some viewers reported issues with the audio quality during the broadcast, making it difficult to clearly hear Lamar’s vocals. Additionally, the prominent inclusion of his diss track “Not Like Us” drew criticism from some who felt it overshadowed his more broadly celebrated work. Reports also suggested that the live audience’s reaction during certain segments was somewhat subdued.
Despite the mixed reactions, the performance undeniably sparked significant conversation and analysis across social media and in the media. Many debated the lyrical content, the symbolism of the visuals, and the overall message Lamar conveyed. The performance was seen by a combined 133.5 million viewers domestically across all platforms, surpassing Michael Jackson’s iconic Super Bowl XXVII halftime show in 1993 as the most-watched halftime show in United States history.
The critical acclaim for the show was further cemented when it went on to win three Primetime Emmy Awards, including the prestigious award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), a historic win for a halftime show centered entirely around hip-hop music.
What people were asking:
What was the critical reception of the show? Critics generally praised the artistic merit, boldness, and cultural significance of Lamar’s performance.
What was the fan reaction? Fan reaction was more divided, with some praising the artistry while others cited audio issues and the focus on the Drake diss track as drawbacks.
How many people watched the halftime show? The Super Bowl LIX halftime show was the most-watched in US history, drawing a combined audience of 133.5 million viewers across all platforms.
Did the show win any awards? Yes, the show won three Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Variety Special (Live).
Were there any controversies or issues during the performance? The audio quality during the broadcast was a point of criticism for some viewers, and the inclusion of “Not Like Us” with the omitted lyric sparked discussion. Additionally, reports suggested a somewhat subdued reaction from the live audience at times.
Looking Ahead: The Legacy of Super Bowl LIX
The Super Bowl LIX halftime show, headlined by Kendrick Lamar, will undoubtedly be remembered as a significant moment in Super Bowl history. It was a performance that transcended mere entertainment, offering a thought-provoking and culturally relevant artistic statement on one of the world’s biggest stages. While opinions on specific aspects of the show varied, its impact and the conversations it generated are undeniable. As we look forward to future Super Bowl halftime shows, Lamar’s performance serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for this platform to showcase not just musical talent but also meaningful cultural expression. The imagery of Lamar emerging from the Buick GNX, the poignant commentary from Samuel L. Jackson, and the powerful symbolism woven throughout the performance will continue to be analyzed and discussed for years to come, solidifying its place in the pantheon of iconic Super Bowl halftime moments.
The success of a hip-hop-centric show, culminating in major Emmy wins, also signifies a continued shift in the cultural landscape and the growing recognition of the genre’s artistic merit and mainstream appeal. As the NFL and its partners look towards future halftime shows, the groundbreaking performance of Kendrick Lamar will likely serve as a benchmark for artistic ambition and cultural impact on this global stage.
FAQs
Who headlined the Super Bowl 2025 halftime show?
Kendrick Lamar, the Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper known for his profound lyrics and dynamic performances, was the main act for the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show. This marked his second Super Bowl appearance, following his ensemble performance in 2022.
Was there a special guest during the halftime show?
Yes, SZA joined Kendrick Lamar as a special guest. Their collaboration included performances of their hits like “All the Stars” and “Luther,” showcasing their musical synergy .
What songs were performed during the halftime show?
The setlist featured a mix of Kendrick Lamar’s iconic tracks, including:
“HUMBLE.”
“DNA.”
“Not Like Us”
“All the Stars” (with SZA)
“TV Off” (with Mustard) The performance was noted for its thematic depth and artistic presentation .
How was the performance received by critics and audiences?
The halftime show received widespread acclaim for its artistry and cultural significance. Critics praised Lamar’s ability to blend entertainment with poignant social commentary, making it one of the most impactful halftime shows in recent memory .
Were there any notable appearances during the show?
Yes, actor Samuel L. Jackson made a cameo as “Uncle Sam,” introducing the performance and adding a theatrical element to the show .
Who performed the national anthem and other pre-game songs?
The pre-game performances featured:
Jon Batiste singing the national anthem.
Lauren Daigle and Trombone Shorty performing “America the Beautiful.”
Ledisi delivering “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” All performers are Louisiana natives, adding a local touch to the event .
How can I watch the halftime show again?
Replays of the halftime show are available on various platforms, including the NFL’s official channels and streaming services like Tubi.
To conclude
The 2025 Super Bowl halftime show stands as a testament to the power of music to transcend entertainment and deliver profound messages. Kendrick Lamar’s performance, enriched by SZA’s collaboration and Samuel L. Jackson’s cameo, offered a blend of artistry, cultural commentary, and musical excellence. The show’s record-breaking viewership underscores its impact and the resonance of its themes with a broad audience.
As the halftime show continues to evolve, embracing diverse genres and voices, it reaffirms its place as a cultural touchstone that reflects and shapes societal conversations. The 2025 edition not only entertained but also provoked thought and dialogue, setting a high bar for future performances.
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