Kendrick Lamar Showcased Uncle Sam, Serena Williams, and West Coast Hip Hop At The Super Bowl
Showcasing a master-class in rap battle ass whooping.
Words by Damian Nicholas | 2 Minute Read
MATT SLOCUM / AP PHOTO
On February 9, the spectacle of the Super Bowl was heightened by an electrifying halftime performance from Kendrick Lamar at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Known for his profound artistry and lyrical prowess, Lamar drew not only football fans but also a diverse audience eager to witness a master in action following his recent Grammy triumphs.
In a year that saw Lamar walk away with five Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year and Record of the Year for his summer hit “Not Like Us,” anticipation ran high for his inaugural headlining spot at the Super Bowl LIX halftime show. Jay-Z, a collaborator and supporter, praised him, noting, “Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer,” a sentiment echoed throughout the music community.
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Though this was Lamar’s first time leading the halftime show, he had previously shared the stage with icons such as Dr. Dre and Eminem during the 2022 show. The NFL even revived memories of his powerful performances by reposting highlights of his earlier set on TikTok as part of the buildup.
As the show began, Lamar made waves with his dynamic set list, featuring tracks from his recently released album *GNX* as well as hits from his celebrated catalog. SZA, a notable collaborator, was the only guest performer announced ahead of time. The two artists joined forces for a captivating rendition of “Luther” and the beloved “All the Stars,” thrilling fans with their synergy on stage.
To the delight of the audience, unexpected guests added an element of surprise. The performance was narrated by none other than Samuel L. Jackson, donning an Uncle Sam outfit, setting a uniquely theatrical tone. Tennis superstar Serena Williams made a surprise appearance, showcasing her rhythm and connection to Lamar through their shared roots in Compton, California.
Adding to the buzz, the performance saw a special cameo by rapper and producer Mustard during Lamar's highly anticipated track “Not Like Us,” a song that has ignited discussions and playful speculation about potential legal issues due to its barbed lyrics aimed at fellow artist Drake.
Every Song On Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl Performance Setlist:
“Squabble Up” from *GNX*
“Humble” from the Pulitzer Prize-winning *Damn*
“DNA” from *Damn*
“Euphoria,” a newly released track addressing his ongoing feud with Drake
Additional tracks such as “Man at the Garden,” “Peekaboo,” and “TV Off,” all from *GNX*, showcasing his unmistakable range and depth as an artist.
JAMIE SQUIRE / GETTY IMAGES
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show was not merely a performance; it was a cultural moment, blending music, artistry, and surprise with reflective nods to his personal and professional narratives. As fans celebrate this groundbreaking appearance, the conversation around Lamar's influence and significance in modern music continues to thrive, promising to resonate long after the final whistle of the game has blown.
Kendrick Lamar: GNX
Kendrick Lamar’s GNX reaffirms his place as a virtuoso of lyrical depth and social commentary. The album pulsates with an energy that’s both frenetic and contemplative, tipping its hat to the complexities of contemporary existence. Tracks like “Reincarnated” and “Heart pt.6” showcase Kendrick's unparalleled storytelling prowess. Lamar continues to push boundaries, earning his status as not just a rapper, but a cultural beacon.
Released: November 22, 2024Listen Now: Apple Music | Spotify
Feb 11, 2025
Source NFL The Business Insider
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