Rapper Kendrick Lamar will headline the Super Bowl half-time show on February 9, in New Orleans, Louisiana, the National Football League (NFL) and Apple Music announced on Sunday. This highly anticipated performance marks Lamar’s first time as the main act in one of the most prestigious stages in music. Having previously shared the spotlight with legends like Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Mary J. Blige at the 2022 Super Bowl, this opportunity cements Lamar’s standing as a major force in the music industry.
Lamar, known for his innovative approach to hip-hop, expressed his excitement about the upcoming performance. “Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date. And I’ll be there to remind the world why,” he said in a statement. “They got the right one.” Lamar’s assertion underscores his commitment to using the Super Bowl stage not just as a platform for entertainment but as a means of showcasing the cultural power of rap music.
The Compton-born rapper, 37, is celebrated as one of the most inventive lyricists in the genre. His ability to craft thought-provoking narratives that address social, political, and personal issues has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. In 2018, Lamar made history by becoming the first hip-hop artist to win the Pulitzer Prize for music, further solidifying his status as a trailblazer in the industry.
“Time and time again, Kendrick has proven his unique ability to craft moments that resonate, redefine, and ultimately shake the very foundation of hip-hop,” said NFL’s Head of Music Seth Dudowsky. This Super Bowl performance is expected to be another one of those defining moments, reflecting Lamar’s artistry and influence on a global stage.
This announcement comes amid a year filled with public feuds and musical triumphs for Lamar. Notably, his publicized feud with Canadian rapper Drake saw both artists exchanging diss tracks, with Lamar’s contributions becoming major hits. Among these, his collaborations on Future and Metro Boomin’s “Like That” and his own track “Not Like Us” dominated the charts, showcasing his enduring relevance and competitive edge in the industry.
Kendrick Lamar joins a distinguished list of artists who have headlined the Super Bowl half-time show, including Rihanna, Usher, Beyoncé, the Rolling Stones, and Bruce Springsteen. The Super Bowl is not just the biggest sports event in the U.S.; it is a global phenomenon that draws tens of millions of viewers worldwide, offering an unparalleled platform for artists to reach diverse audiences.
The significance of Lamar’s headlining performance goes beyond entertainment—it represents a moment of recognition for hip-hop as a genre that has shaped cultural narratives and influenced generations. Lamar’s presence as the main act is a testament to the evolution of rap music from its roots in the streets to its current status as a dominant force in mainstream culture.
With anticipation building, fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see how Lamar will use the Super Bowl stage to create a performance that not only entertains but also makes a statement. His past performances have been marked by their boldness and creativity, often incorporating powerful visual elements and messages that resonate long after the music stops.
As February 9 approaches, all eyes will be on New Orleans, not just for the game but for what promises to be a historic half-time show. For Kendrick Lamar, this is more than just another performance—it’s an opportunity to remind the world why rap music remains, as he puts it, “the most impactful genre to date.”
