Kendrick Lamar, the Grammy-winning and Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper, is set to electrify the NFL's biggest stage once again. The NFL, Apple Music, and Roc Nation announced that Lamar will headline the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show in New Orleans, Louisiana, on February 9, 2025.
This performance will be Lamar's second appearance at the Super Bowl halftime show. In 2022, he joined Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Mary J. Blige for a star-studded performance that captivated audiences. However, this time, Lamar will take center stage as the headliner, signifying a significant moment for hip-hop and a testament to his unparalleled influence on music and culture.
Lamar's return to the Super Bowl stage marks a pivotal moment for the genre. He has consistently pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, garnering critical acclaim and widespread recognition for his innovative sound and thought-provoking lyrics. His 2017 album, DAMN., earned him a Pulitzer Prize for Music, making him the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to achieve this prestigious honor.
The rapper expressed his excitement about the upcoming performance in a statement, stating, “Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date. And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one.” His words highlight the enduring power of hip-hop and its ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Jay-Z, the founder of Roc Nation, also shared his enthusiasm for Lamar's performance, describing him as a “once-in-a-generation artist and performer.” He praised Lamar's deep love for hip-hop and his ability to define and influence culture on a global scale. Jay-Z's statement underscores the immense impact that Lamar has had on music and his ability to transcend genres and reach a diverse audience.
The creative direction of Lamar's performance will be guided by pgLang, the creative company he co-founded with Dave Free. pgLang has been instrumental in shaping Lamar's artistic vision, overseeing the production of his music videos and collaborating on his live performances. The company's involvement promises a visually captivating and musically innovative show that will capture the essence of Lamar's artistry.
Lamar's Super Bowl performance comes on the heels of a highly publicized rap battle with Canadian rapper Drake. The feud, which began with the release of Future and Metro Boomin's “Like That,” featuring Lamar, resulted in a series of diss tracks and sparked intense debate among fans. While the battle has largely subsided, it undoubtedly fueled Lamar's creative energy and further cemented his position as a dominant force in the hip-hop landscape.
The Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show will be held at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, a venue that has hosted seven previous Super Bowls. This will be the first Super Bowl in New Orleans since 2013. Lamar's performance is sure to attract a large audience, both in the stadium and worldwide, as the Super Bowl is one of the most-watched television events globally.
A Hip-Hop Legacy
Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show represents a historical milestone for hip-hop. His selection as the headliner is a testament to the genre's enduring popularity and influence. Lamar's performance will not only showcase his musical prowess but also serve as a reminder of the transformative power of hip-hop. The stage is set for Lamar to deliver a powerful and memorable performance that will leave a lasting impact on the music world.
A Look Back at Recent Super Bowl Halftime Shows
The Super Bowl halftime show has become a prestigious event in the entertainment industry, attracting some of the biggest names in music. Here's a look at the performers who graced the stage in recent years:
- 2024: Usher, joined by Alicia Keys, Ludacris and H.E.R.
- 2023: Rihanna, who performed while pregnant.
- 2022: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar.
- 2021: The Weeknd.
- 2020: Shakira and Jennifer Lopez.
Lamar's performance promises to be a highlight of the 2025 Super Bowl. As a leading figure in contemporary hip-hop, he is poised to deliver a show that will resonate with fans around the world and further elevate the genre to new heights.
