Kendrick Lamar delivered an electrifying Super Bowl halftime show in 2025, leaving fans and critics with much to analyze.
The Grammy- and Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper took full advantage of one of the world’s biggest musical stages, crafting a performance that blended high-energy entertainment, sharp lyricism, and deep symbolism—all while reigniting his public feud with Drake.
A Statement Through Performance
Lamar’s setlist was carefully curated to showcase his artistic range while also making a powerful statement.
He performed a selection of his greatest hits, including “Peakboo”, before transitioning into “Not Like Us”, a diss track that has fueled his ongoing rivalry with Drake.
The song’s inclusion alone was provocative, but Lamar took it further, name-checking Drake mid-performance while looking directly into the camera with a knowing grin.
Fans and analysts were quick to note the layered symbolism throughout the set, including elements that drew from video games and cultural references that seemed to take direct shots at his Toronto-based rival.
The performance added fuel to an already blazing feud, ensuring that this halftime show would not be forgotten anytime soon.
An Iconic Introduction: Samuel L. Jackson as Uncle Sam
One of the most striking moments of the show came before Lamar even took the stage.
Legendary actor Samuel L. Jackson, dressed as Uncle Sam, introduced the rapper at New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome.
This was a powerful and politically charged choice, aligning with Lamar’s history of social commentary in his music.
Lamar’s entrance reinforced his status as a generational voice in hip-hop—one who not only entertains but also challenges norms and expectations.
He became the first solo hip-hop artist to headline a Super Bowl halftime show, marking another historic moment in his career.
The Drake Feud: More Than Just Lyrics
Lamar’s decision to perform “Not Like Us” at the Super Bowl was met with intense anticipation leading up to the event.
The song, which levels serious accusations against Drake, has been at the center of one of rap’s most heated beefs in recent history.
Drake, for his part, has not taken the song lightly. He has since filed a defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group, the parent company distributing Lamar’s music, arguing that the track has caused significant damage to his reputation.
Lamar’s decision to perform it at the Super Bowl—where millions were watching—was a clear message that he is standing firm in the battle.
Serena Williams’ Cameo Sparks Debate
Another unexpected moment in Lamar’s performance was the cameo appearance of Serena Williams.
The tennis icon’s involvement received mixed reactions, with some applauding her participation and others questioning the reasoning behind it.
This is partly because Williams is known to have dated Drake in the past leading many to question her intentions for joining Lamar on stage to dance to ‘Not Like Us’.
Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, quickly came to her defense, stating that her role was intentional and significant.
However, the controversy surrounding her appearance only added another layer of intrigue to a halftime show already brimming with discussion points.
A Super Bowl Halftime Show for the Ages
Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 Super Bowl halftime show was more than just a performance—it was a cultural moment.
From the carefully chosen setlist and symbolic imagery to the continuation of his public feud with Drake, Lamar ensured that this show would go down in history.
With Samuel L. Jackson’s iconic introduction, the performance of a highly controversial diss track, and surprise cameos, Lamar proved once again that he is one of the most compelling and fearless artists of his generation.
The world will be dissecting this performance for years to come—just as he intended.
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