Kendrick Lamar has long been a master of storytelling, blending sharp lyricism with potent symbolism to create moments that transcend music. His Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show was no exception—it was a declaration, a celebration, and a reckoning all in one.
With three Grammy wins already secured for “Not Like Us” in the categories of “Best Rap Performance,” “Best Rap Song,“ and “Best Music Video,“ Lamar entered the Super Bowl halftime show as a 22-time Grammy winner and one of hip-hop’s most profound voices. His presence on the biggest stage in sports was more than just an opportunity to entertain; it was a moment to solidify his impact on culture.
As DJ Mustard accepted Lamar’s Grammys at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, a little more than week ago, the crowd erupted in applause, further proving that the track had become a cultural anthem. “Not Like Us” wasn’t just a song — it was a movement that carried even greater weight when performed in front of millions during the Super Bowl halftime show. At the New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome, Mustard, who produced the song, made his cameo.
Kendrick Lamar’s American theme
Since the announcement of Lamar as the halftime performer, a clear American theme has emerged. His stage design, wardrobe, and visuals were layered with meaning. Dressed in red, white, and blue, Lamar evoked the imagery of Uncle Sam—an intentional nod to the character he embodied in his 2015 “For Free?“ music video from To Pimp a Butterfly.
His background dancers, each clad in one of the three colors, strategically formed a human American flag, reinforcing the complex relationship between Black artistry, patriotism, and resistance.
Including legendary actor Samuel L. Jackson, “Uncle Sam,“ as a key figure in the performance was equally symbolic. Jackson, a Morehouse College alumnus and vocal political advocate, has historically aligned himself with progressive causes, endorsing Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential race and previously supporting President Barack Obama. His presence wasn’t just a cameo—it was a statement.
Lamar’s latest album, GNX, is named after the Buick Grand National GNX (Grand National Experimental), a high-performance, rear-wheel-drive coupe that was retired in 1987—his birth year—and once driven by his father. The car, a symbol of speed, power, and resilience, took center stage as a central prop in the performance. Much like Lamar himself, the GNX is a product of its time, embodying a legacy of strength and innovation.
With a 400-member field cast bringing his vision to life, Lamar’s 13-minute set built up to a seismic moment—the performance of “Not Like Us.“ The song, which has been widely interpreted as a clapback and a rallying cry, took on new life on the Super Bowl stage. The energy was palpable as Lamar transitioned into his closing track, “TV Off,“ further solidifying his message.
SZA’s presence in Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime performance was a defining moment in her career. It solidified her status as a powerhouse in contemporary R&B while showcasing the deep artistic synergy between her and Lamar—two generational talents who have consistently pushed the boundaries of music and culture. They performed “All the Stars“ and “Luther.”
SZA, whose real name is Solána Imani Rowe, dated Drake from 2008 to 2009; it was a romance that she dubbed a “childish fling.“ He revealed their relationship in his 2020 single “Mr. Right Now.“
One of the most talked-about moments of the performance was Serena Williams’ electrifying C-Walk on stage. The tennis legend, known for her dominance on the court, made a cultural statement with her effortless Crip Walk—a dance move deeply tied to West Coast hip-hop and L.A. street culture.
But her presence carried even more weight considering her past romantic ties to Drake, Lamar’s rap nemesis. The pair were linked in 2015, with Drake frequently attending Williams’ matches and referencing her in multiple songs. And in 2022, Drake ignited tensions in 2022 when he took shots at Williams’ husband Alexis Ohanian in his single, “Middle of the Ocean“:
“Sidebar, Serena, your husband a groupie / He claim we don’t got a problem but / No boo, it is like you coming for sushi.”
Ohanian clapped back with a tweet, embracing the insult:
“The reason I stay winning is because I’m relentless about being the absolute best at whatever I do—including being the best groupie for my wife & daughter.”
Lamar, never one to shy away from a battle, seemingly defended Williams on Not Like Us, rapping:
“From Alondra down to Central / N*** better not speak on Serena.”*
With her C-Walk center stage, Serena’s appearance wasn’t just a dance but the ultimate power move. It symbolized allegiance, legacy, and a subtle yet undeniable response to past disrespect.
Overall, his performance was about music, identity, resistance, and reclaiming narratives. It was about Black excellence, power, and legacy. And in that moment, Kendrick Lamar didn’t just make history—he defined it.
