The stage is set for Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, and while the matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs is highly anticipated, it’s the halftime show that’s stealing the spotlight. This year, the headliner is none other than Kendrick Lamar, a rapper often hailed as one of the greatest of all time.
Lamar is no stranger to the Super Bowl stage, having made a guest appearance during the iconic 2022 halftime show alongside Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre. This time, he’s taking center stage, and fans are buzzing with excitement. Apple Music, the official halftime show sponsor, released a teaser in September 2024, showing Lamar walking across a massive football field and joking, “This field a lot bigger than what it looks.” The teaser also hinted at a surprise guest: Grammy-winning artist SZA, promising a performance to remember.
However, not everyone is thrilled about Lamar’s headline act. While many fans praised the choice, calling him “the GOAT” and celebrating his artistry, others expressed disappointment. Some critics feel rap has dominated the Super Bowl halftime show for too long, with one commenter stating, “I’m tired of rap at the Super Bowl. It’s the lowest denominator of music.” Others questioned Lamar’s live performance skills, with one fan admitting, “I love Kendrick, but his live performances aren’t the most exciting.”
Adding to the drama, Louisiana-born rap legend Lil Wayne publicly shared his disappointment at not being chosen for the halftime show in his home state. In an emotional Instagram video, Wayne said, “It hurt… I thought there was nothing better than that spot and that stage in my city.”
Despite the mixed reactions, Lamar’s new album, GNX, released in November 2024, seems to address some of the criticism. A line from the song “Wacced Out Murals” appears to reference Wayne’s disappointment, adding another layer of intrigue to the upcoming performance.
With the Super Bowl set for February 9, 2025, the excitement is building. Whether you’re tuning in for the game, the halftime show, or both, this year’s event promises to be unforgettable. What are your thoughts on Kendrick Lamar headlining? Let us know!
