#KendrickSuperbowl
Kendrick Lamar headlined the Super Bowl LIX halftime show in New Orleans on February 9, 2025, delivering one of the most politically charged and critically acclaimed performances in Super Bowl history.
The Performance
Kendrick’s 14-minute set featured:
- Opening with “Alright” as dancers formed a peace sign
- “HUMBLE.” with Drake diss lines intact (controversial decision)
- A New Orleans tribute featuring Lil Wayne (surprise guest)
- “Not Like Us” performed in front of a giant owl (Drake reference)
- Closing with “i” as dancers spelled out “LOVE” across the field
The entire production was designed by Dave Free and featured 500 dancers in all-white outfits.
The Drake Controversy
Performing “Not Like Us” at the Super Bowl - less than a year after the Drake beef - was seen as either:
- A cultural victory lap: Kendrick cemented his win in the greatest rap beef of the 2020s
- Petty and unnecessary: Critics felt it was beneath the gravitas of the moment
- Authentic Kendrick: Supporters argued he’s never compromised for mainstream acceptance
The NFL reportedly asked Kendrick to remove certain Drake references. He refused, threatening to pull out. The NFL backed down.
Lil Wayne’s Surprise
New Orleans legend Lil Wayne’s appearance was bittersweet. Many felt Wayne deserved to headline a NOLA Super Bowl, but he graciously joined Kendrick for “m.A.A.d city” and received a standing ovation.
Wayne later tweeted: “That’s how you pass the torch. Love K.Dot.”
Cultural Impact
- Viewership: 127 million people watched (second-highest ever)
- Streaming surge: Kendrick’s catalog streamed 421% more in the week following
- Political statements: His performance was seen as pro-Black, anti-establishment
- Artistic integrity: Praised for refusing to sanitize his art for corporate America
Legacy
Kendrick’s performance joined the pantheon of legendary halftime shows (Prince, Beyoncé, Shakira/J.Lo). It proved that hip-hop’s most conscious, uncompromising artist could command the world’s biggest stage.
Related: #SuperBowlLIX, #KendrickLamar, #Drake, #HalftimeShow
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