The anticipation for Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, is growing, with fans eagerly awaiting the clash between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs. However, it’s the halftime show that’s generating the most buzz. This year’s headliner is Kendrick Lamar, an artist widely considered one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Recognized for his technical prowess and thought-provoking lyricism, Lamar is no stranger to the Super Bowl stage. He previously appeared as a guest in the iconic 2022 halftime show alongside Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre. Now, the spotlight is solely on him, and excitement among his fans has reached new heights. The announcement of his performance came in September 2024, accompanied by a teaser trailer from Apple Music, the official sponsor of the halftime show.
The teaser, a striking black-and-white clip, features Lamar pacing across a vast football field, casually remarking, “This field a lot bigger than what it looks.” The teaser also contained an exciting revelation—Grammy-winning artist SZA will be joining Lamar for what promises to be a thrilling, unforgettable performance.
While many fans have expressed overwhelming enthusiasm for Lamar’s Super Bowl debut as a headliner, reactions have been mixed. One supporter wrote, “Kendrick deserves it,” while another stated, “Back in like 2016, I said Kendrick is the GOAT, and I’m happy he has proven me right every step of the way.” However, not everyone is thrilled. Some viewers are indifferent, with one commenting, “It’s fine, I suppose, but I don’t watch football, so I probably have no stake. He’s no scandal, generally well-liked, better than TS or something like that lol.”
Criticism of Lamar’s live performances has also surfaced. One fan expressed admiration for his artistry but questioned his stage presence, saying, “I love Kendrick, but I never found him to be the most fun live performer. Seems like he can’t rap all his verses with that same passion live.” Others have questioned why he was chosen for a second appearance at the Super Bowl. “Why does he get to be there twice? I pay no attention to that kind of music,” one critic said. Another took a harsher stance, declaring, “Sick of rap at Super Bowl. It is the lowest denominator of music IMHO.” One particularly blunt reaction read, “Huge disappointment. Not a fan of Kendrick Lamar at all, and this will be the first halftime show I won’t care if I miss.”
For those who may not be Lamar fans, the NFL has incorporated additional performers to honor the rich musical legacy of Louisiana, the host state of the Super Bowl. Jon Batiste, a renowned jazz musician and multi-instrumentalist, will perform the national anthem. “I’m excited to figure out an arrangement that lasts the test of time, and I look forward to sharing it,” Batiste said. Christian singer Lauren Daigle and jazz musician Trombone Shorty will collaborate on a rendition of “America the Beautiful,” while R&B legend Ledisi will deliver a stirring performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
One artist who was notably absent from the lineup—and disappointed by it—was Louisiana rap icon Lil Wayne. Many fans expected Wayne to headline the halftime show in his home state, and the rapper himself appeared to believe he was in consideration. In an emotional Instagram video, he opened up about his feelings. “I blame myself for not being mentally prepared for a letdown and for automatically mentally putting myself in that position like somebody told me that was my position,” he admitted. Reflecting on what the opportunity would have meant to him, he added, “I thought there was nothing better than that spot and that stage and that platform in my city, so it hurt.”
Lamar, known for his introspective nature and selective public statements, did not directly respond to Wayne’s comments. However, his latest album may have addressed the situation. On November 22, Lamar surprise-released his sixth album, GNX, which includes the track “Wacced Out Murals.” In the song, he seemingly references Wayne’s disappointment with the lyrics: “Used to bump Tha Carter III, I held my Rollie chain proud / Irony, I think my hard work let Lil Wayne down / Whatever though, call me crazy, everybody questionable.”
Another subplot surrounding the halftime show is the ongoing tension between Lamar and Drake. Reports indicate that Lamar may perform his controversial track “Not Like Us” at the event. According to The U.S. Sun, the song contains lyrics that seem to take direct aim at Drake, even making insinuations about inappropriate behavior. Legally, it appears that Drake has no recourse to prevent Lamar from performing the song if he chooses to do so.
The feud between the two rap powerhouses has spanned years and originated in competitive rivalry. It dates back to 2013 when Lamar delivered a now-legendary verse on Big Sean’s “Control,” in which he called out several rappers, including Drake, challenging them to elevate their craft. While many perceived the verse as a competitive call to action, Drake later hinted in interviews that he took it as a sign of disrespect.
As the countdown to February 9, 2025, continues, anticipation for Super Bowl LIX is at an all-time high. Whether fans are tuning in for the game itself, the halftime spectacle, or simply to witness any potential surprises, one thing is certain—this Super Bowl is shaping up to be an unforgettable event.
For those eager to catch all the action, Super Bowl LIX will be available for streaming across multiple platforms. Fans can tune in through the Fox Sports app on iOS or Android, Tubi, FoxSports.com, NFL+, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, or Sling TV.
With so many elements converging on one of the biggest nights in entertainment and sports, the spotlight will be shining brightly on Kendrick Lamar. Whether his performance will be remembered as a legendary Super Bowl moment or simply another halftime show remains to be seen. Fans and critics alike will soon have their answers when the lights come up on one of the most anticipated musical events of the year.