Kendrick Lamar Caps Off Victory Lap With Searing Super Bowl Halftime Show Featuring SZA, Samuel L. Jackson & More

Following his triumphant evening at the Grammys on February 2, where he secured five trophies, including the prestigious awards for Record and Song of the Year for “Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar took the stage at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans for the Super Bowl 2025 Halftime Show on February 9. Amidst the excitement of the Philadelphia Eagles taking a surprising 24-0 lead over the Kansas City Chiefs by halftime, the setting was prime for Lamar to shine. The stage, resembling a giant tic-tac-toe board, was graced by Samuel L. Jackson, donning a patriotic outfit, who introduced the event as “The Great American Game.”

Lamar kicked off his performance atop a GNX with “Bodies,” surrounded by a horde of dancers in red and white, quickly transitioning into his Billboard Hot 100 leader “Squabble Up.” Despite his precise delivery, he was briefly interrupted by Jackson’s critique: “No, no, no. Too loud, too reckless, too ghetto,” Jackson chided. “Mr. Lamar, do you really know how to play the game? Then tighten up.” Taking this advice to heart, Lamar dove into a medley from his 2015 album DAMN, delivering hits like “Humble” and “DNA.” He continued to captivate the audience, particularly with “Euphoria,” a sharp rebuke of Drake, hinting he might perform “Not Like Us.” Moving to a staged street corner, he performed “Man in the Garden,” much to Jackson’s mock dismay.

“I see you brought your homeboys with you,” Jackson sneered. “The old culture cheat code. Scorekeeper, deduct one life.”

As the stage transformed into an X, Lamar initiated “peekaboo,” flirting with the idea of romance through his lyrics. As the intro to “Not Like Us” began, Lamar brought a change of pace, inviting SZA to join him for “Luther” and “All the Stars,” earning Jackson’s approval: “That’s what I’m talking about. That’s what America wants,” he exclaimed. Encouraged, Lamar led into an impromptu freestyle, setting the stage for “Not Like Us.” Focused and intense, he delivered a controversial verse, engaging the audience in a collective chant of a notable line from the song.

Lamar then transitioned into “TV Off,” with the song’s producer, Mustard, by his side. The shout of “Mustard” echoed throughout the venue, culminating in a striking “Game Over” sign lighting up amongst the crowd, marking an unforgettable end to the show. Lamar’s performance not only thrilled the audience but also left an indelible mark on hip-hop and pop culture.