The Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show in New Orleans on February 9, 2025, delivered an electrifying performance by Kendrick Lamar, setting a new benchmark in hip-hop’s dominance in mainstream entertainment. The show, held at the Caesars Superdome, was visually striking, politically charged, and musically groundbreaking, showcasing Lamar’s artistry, influence, and cultural impact.
A Star-Studded Performance
Lamar’s setlist blended his classic hits with newer material, providing a powerful narrative of struggle, triumph, and social consciousness. What made the performance even more remarkable was the inclusion of several high-profile guest appearances, each adding their unique flair to the show.
Guest Appearances
- SZA – Lamar and SZA performed their critically acclaimed collaborations, Luther and All the Stars. Their chemistry was undeniable, making this one of the most talked-about moments of the night.
- Samuel L. Jackson – In a bold move, Jackson played the role of “Uncle Sam”, providing satirical interludes that spoke on American politics, racial injustices, and power structures. His appearances added a cinematic touch to Lamar’s performance, reinforcing his reputation for blending storytelling and activism.
- Serena Williams – The tennis legend shocked the audience when she joined Lamar on stage during Not Like Us. Williams performed the crip walk, a dance she famously did during her 2012 Wimbledon victory celebration. This moment went viral instantly, further fueling the performance’s cultural significance.
Symbolic Stage Design and Setlist
Lamar’s stage design was one of the most intriguing aspects of the performance, filled with symbolism and Easter eggs that spoke directly to his fans.
Stage Elements
- PlayStation Controller Symbols – The stage featured X, O, Square, and Triangle symbols, possibly alluding to themes of control, power, and competition.
- 1987 Buick GNX – A vintage muscle car was a central prop, symbolizing Lamar’s personal journey and paying homage to the year of his birth.
Setlist
Lamar curated a powerful setlist, blending his biggest hits and newer material:
- Bodies
- Squabble Up
- HUMBLE.
- DNA.
- Euphoria
- Man at the Garden
- Peekaboo
- Luther (with SZA)
- All the Stars (with SZA)
- Not Like Us
- TV Off (with Mustard)
Each song carried deep lyrical meaning, showcasing Lamar’s growth as an artist and social commentator.
A Subtle Jab at Drake
Lamar’s performance was not just about the music—it was also a moment to address ongoing industry feuds. While performing Not Like Us, he took a subtle dig at Drake, quipping:
“I want to play their favorite song, but you know they love to sue.”
This was a clear reference to his ongoing rap battle with Drake, which has been one of the biggest rap feuds in recent years.
A Record-Breaking Performance
The viewership numbers for Lamar’s performance were staggering. According to official reports, the Super Bowl Halftime Show attracted 133.5 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched halftime shows in history.
Cultural Impact
Critics and fans alike praised Lamar for blending entertainment with powerful messages. His performance cemented hip-hop’s place in mainstream American culture and proved that it can be both politically charged and widely celebrated.
Final Thoughts
Kendrick Lamar’s Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show will be remembered as one of the greatest halftime performances of all time. His ability to combine social commentary, music, and entertainment is unparalleled, making him one of the most influential artists of his generation.
If you missed the performance, you can watch it here:
🎥 Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show
