At Super Bowl LIX on February 9, 2025, Kendrick Lamar delivered a groundbreaking halftime performance that captivated audiences worldwide. The show featured unexpected guest appearances, including R&B artist SZA, actor Samuel L. Jackson, tennis legend Serena Williams, and DJ Mustard. The performance was broadcast to a record-breaking 133.5 million viewers across television and streaming platforms, surpassing Michael Jackson’s 1993 halftime show as the most-watched in U.S. history.
Performance Highlights
Lamar’s setlist seamlessly blended his latest tracks with classic hits, showcasing his versatility and growth as an artist. The performance included:
- “Bodies” (Unreleased GNX track)
- “Squabble Up”
- “HUMBLE.”
- “DNA.”
- “Euphoria”
- “Man at the Garden”
- “Peekaboo”
- “Luther” (with SZA)
- “All the Stars” (with SZA)
- “Not Like Us”
- “TV Off” (with Mustard)
The inclusion of “Not Like Us” was particularly notable, as it addressed Lamar’s ongoing feud with fellow rapper Drake. During the performance, Lamar omitted the controversial line referencing Drake, opting for a more restrained delivery.
Guest Appearances
The halftime show was enriched by several surprise guest appearances:
- Samuel L. Jackson: Dressed as Uncle Sam, Jackson introduced each segment, adding a theatrical flair to the performance.
- SZA: The R&B singer joined Lamar for renditions of “Luther” and “All the Stars,” highlighting their successful collaborations.
- Serena Williams: The tennis icon made a cameo as a backup dancer, adding a dynamic element to the choreography.
- DJ Mustard: The producer collaborated with Lamar on “TV Off,” contributing to the show’s diverse musical landscape.
Cultural Impact
Lamar’s performance was lauded for its artistic depth and cultural significance. The show not only entertained but also sparked conversations about the evolving role of hip-hop in mainstream entertainment. The diverse lineup of guest performers underscored the genre’s broad appeal and its capacity to bridge various facets of popular culture.
Post-Performance Reactions
The aftermath of the performance saw various reactions from artists and fans alike. Notably, Drake subtly addressed the performance by altering a lyric in his song “Knife Talk” during a concert in Melbourne, Australia, changing “Beef is live, spoiler alert – this n—a dies” to “Beef is live, spoiler alert – I never died.”
Overall, Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime show was a landmark event that showcased his artistic prowess and solidified his status as a transformative figure in the music industry.
