Kendrick Lamar brings America and ‘Not Like Us’ into history-making Super Bowl halftime show

Kendrick Lamar brings America and ‘Not Like Us’ into history-making Super Bowl halftime show

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime show on February 9, 2025, marked a groundbreaking moment in the history of the event. As the first solo hip-hop artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show, Lamar delivered a performance that seamlessly blended his artistic vision with powerful political commentary.

**Innovative Performance and Artistic Direction**

Lamar’s set was a visual and auditory spectacle, featuring a stage designed to resemble a giant PlayStation controller, symbolizing the intersection of American culture and technology. The performance began with Lamar and his backup dancers emerging from a 1980s Buick Regal coupe, setting the tone for a nostalgic yet forward-thinking show. Samuel L. Jackson made a cameo as Uncle Sam, providing comedic commentary and advice to Lamar between songs, further emphasizing the theme of American identity.

**Political Commentary and Cultural Pride**

A significant highlight of the performance was Lamar’s rendition of “Not Like Us,” a track originally known for its pointed critique of Drake. In the Super Bowl setting, the song evolved into an anthem of cultural pride, with the live audience passionately chanting along, underscoring the song’s transformation beyond its original context.

**Guest Appearances and Symbolic Moments**

The show featured appearances by notable figures, including Serena Williams, who performed a ‘crip-walk’ dance during “Not Like Us,” adding a personal touch to the performance. Additionally, a protester waving a Palestinian flag attached to a Sudanese flag with the words “Gaza” and “Sudan” stood on the stage during Lamar’s performance, highlighting the show’s engagement with global issues.

**Critical Reception**

Critics have lauded Lamar’s performance for its ambition and depth. The Guardian described it as “an ambitious, uneven set blending artistry and statement,” noting that Lamar “delivered a show that included unreleased tracks, a nod to gang unity, and politically charged moments.”

Time magazine highlighted Lamar’s ability to “rewrite the rules of the Super Bowl Halftime Show,” emphasizing his blend of narrative and political commentary with engaging visual stagecraft.

**Conclusion**

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime show was a historic and impactful performance that pushed the boundaries of traditional halftime entertainment. By integrating his unique artistic style with poignant political messages, Lamar not only entertained millions but also sparked important conversations about culture and identity.

For a visual recap of Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime performance, you can watch the following video: