Super Bowl halftime shows are known for their star-studded lineups, and this year was no exception as Los Angeles rapper Kendrick Lamar took the stage for a show-stopping performance. Unlike previous halftime spectacles, Lamar’s set focused on his raw talent and electrifying presence, with minimal flashy production elements. The iconic Samuel L. Jackson made a surprise appearance as Uncle Sam, adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to the show. Lamar kicked off his performance with a high-energy rendition of “Squabble Up” from his latest album, GNX, in front of a Buick Grand National GNX—a nod to his personal history and the inspiration behind his recent music.
Before the show, Lamar hinted at a setlist that would showcase his newer material, emphasizing his growth and evolution as an artist. True to his word, the halftime show featured five tracks from GNX, released late last year, while omitting any songs from before 2017. This bold choice highlighted Lamar’s commitment to his current creative journey and musical direction. The performance seamlessly transitioned through hits like “HUMBLE.” and “DNA.” from his acclaimed 2017 album DAMN., as well as newer tracks like “Euphoria” that alluded to his ongoing feud with fellow rapper Drake.
Lamar’s setlist also included fresh tracks from GNX, such as “Man at the Garden” and “Peekaboo,” which made their debut on the Super Bowl stage. The inclusion of these newer songs demonstrated Lamar’s confidence in his evolving sound and his willingness to push artistic boundaries. The performance culminated in a collaboration with SZA, who brought her signature style and vocal prowess to the tracks “Luther” and “All The Stars,” captivating the audience with their dynamic chemistry.
Amidst the high-energy performance, Lamar playfully teased the crowd with snippets of his hit diss track “Not Like Us,” eliciting a thunderous response from fans. The show concluded with a powerful rendition of “TV Off,” featuring Mustard, a prominent producer behind several GNX tracks. As the stadium lights dimmed and illuminated bracelets spelled out “GAME OVER,” Lamar left the audience buzzing with anticipation and speculation about the future of his music and ongoing rivalry with Drake.
In a surprise twist, Lamar’s halftime show featured notable guest appearances from Samuel L. Jackson, SZA, and Mustard, adding depth and variety to the performance. Jackson’s role as Uncle Sam provided a thematic thread throughout the show, while SZA’s vocal contributions elevated the overall grandeur of the performance. Mustard’s presence on stage highlighted his current musical prominence and collaborative work with Lamar, creating a memorable moment for fans and viewers alike.
Additionally, tennis legend Serena Williams made a cameo appearance, dancing on stage during Lamar’s performance, adding a subtle yet impactful layer to the narrative of his feud with Drake. The inclusion of such high-profile guests and collaborators further underscored Lamar’s influence and reach within the music industry, solidifying his status as a cultural icon and trendsetter.
As the echoes of Lamar’s electrifying halftime performance faded, fans were left to ponder the implications of his setlist choices, guest appearances, and overall showmanship. With speculation rife about his future musical direction and ongoing beef with Drake, Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show was a masterful display of artistry, creativity, and unapologetic self-expression. Whether this performance marks a turning point in his career or simply a chapter in an ongoing saga, only time will tell.