On February 9, 2025, Kendrick Lamar made history as the first solo hip-hop artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. His performance was both powerful and memorable, featuring special guests and symbolic messages.
The show began with Lamar and his dancers emerging from a 1980s Buick GNX onto a stage designed to look like a giant PlayStation controller. He opened with a snippet of an unreleased track titled “Bodies.” Throughout the performance, actor Samuel L. Jackson appeared as “Uncle Sam,” offering satirical commentary that highlighted themes of American culture and history.
Lamar’s setlist included hits like “Humble,” “DNA,” and “Euphoria.” He was joined by R&B singer SZA for performances of “Luther” and “All the Stars.” A standout moment was when tennis star Serena Williams made a surprise appearance during “Not Like Us,” performing a dance that referenced her 2012 Olympic victory celebration.
The performance was rich in symbolism. Dancers dressed in red, white, and blue formed an American flag, and Jackson’s portrayal of Uncle Sam provided a critical lens on national identity. Lamar also made a reference to “40 Acres and a Mule,” a historical term linked to unfulfilled promises to freed African Americans after the Civil War. Filmmaker Spike Lee, whose production company shares the same name, expressed gratitude for the mention.
The show concluded with Lamar performing “TV Off” alongside DJ Mustard, ending with the words “GAME OVER” displayed through crowd wristband lights. The performance was watched by a record 133.5 million viewers, making it the most-viewed halftime show in U.S. history.
While many praised the performance for its artistry and messages, it also faced criticism. Some felt that another artist, like Lil Wayne, who is a New Orleans native, should have headlined the show. The NFL later expressed regret over not choosing Lil Wayne, acknowledging the missed opportunity to honor the host city’s musical heritage.
Overall, Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show was a significant cultural moment, blending music, performance, and social commentary on one of the world’s biggest stages.
