Kendrick Lamar had fans on the edge of their seats during his Super Bowl half-time performance as he hinted at playing a controversial song. Referring to his hit track “Not Like Us,” which took aim at rival Drake, the rapper teased the audience with its potential inclusion despite legal implications. The song, a massive success with a billion streams on Spotify and multiple Grammy wins, had sparked a defamation lawsuit from Drake over contentious lyrics. Lamar tantalized the crowd by repeatedly hinting at the song before delivering a censored version during the show, maintaining its impact with clever wordplay.
In a bold move, Lamar addressed the ongoing legal battle with Drake through his performance, ensuring the song’s message resonated throughout the stadium. The electrifying set also featured a surprise appearance by tennis star Serena Williams, adding to the spectacle. Despite legal challenges looming over the track, Lamar’s performance captivated over 120 million viewers, showcasing a mix of introspective tracks and crowd-pleasing hits.
The rapper’s stage presence, paired with an elaborate production, offered a visual spectacle that underscored his lyrical depth and artistry. With special guests and intricate choreography, Lamar’s performance highlighted the tension between his introspective side and mainstream appeal. Actor Samuel L. Jackson’s role as emcee added a satirical touch, critiquing the expectations placed on Lamar to conform to a sanitized image for television.
Lamar’s defiant stance against societal norms and his commitment to staying true to his artistry set the tone for a powerful and unforgettable performance. From hits like “Humble” and “DNA” to the thought-provoking “All The Stars,” Lamar’s setlist showcased his versatility and impact in the music industry. The energy and passion that Lamar brought to the stage left a lasting impression on viewers, solidifying his position as a groundbreaking artist unafraid to push boundaries.
With a charismatic swagger, he glided in sync with his dancers, the clever staging adding momentum to the show, especially on tracks like Peekaboo. SZA’s supple vocals and flexible choreography complemented Lamar’s edgy performance, with the undeniable highlight being Not Like Us. Lamar wrapped up the set with a victory lap on the bouncy anthem TV Off, joined by producer Mustard for a lively moment on stage.
While fans appreciated the performance filled with surprises and Easter eggs, some casual viewers struggled to grasp Lamar’s densely-written lyrics due to the stadium’s echoing acoustics. Surprisingly, Lamar skipped his civil rights anthem Alright, despite its significance in the current social context.
As expected, Lamar’s performance was polished and seamless, albeit missing a potentially impactful statement that many had anticipated, especially with President Donald Trump present. The show went smoothly until a protester briefly interrupted by climbing onto Lamar’s car with a flag.
The set packed in 11 songs within 13 minutes, including a rumored collaboration with Taylor Swift, who ultimately opted to enjoy the show from her VIP suite. The star-studded audience, including celebrities like Paul McCartney, Lady Gaga, and Jay-Z, added to the event’s allure.
Before the game, Lady Gaga’s surprise performance on Bourbon Street paid tribute to the victims of a recent terror attack in New Orleans, showcasing the city’s resilience and spirit. Former American footballer Michael Strahan praised the city’s resolve in a pre-filmed segment, highlighting the significance of the moment.
In a stirring tribute to unity and patriotism, musical performances graced the stage before a recent game. The lineup included the soulful R&B artist Ledisi, captivating the audience with a powerful rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” a poignant anthem often regarded as the Black National hymn. The melody was further elevated by the harmonious voices of 125 youth choir members, creating a truly moving experience.
Troy Andrews, widely recognized as the talented Trombone Shorty, and the acclaimed Christian singer-songwriter Lauren Daigle took the stage next, infusing their performance of “America the Beautiful” with a vibrant New Orleans flair. Their musical collaboration added a feel-good vibe to the beloved classic, resonating with the audience and setting a celebratory tone for the event.
As anticipation mounted and the crowd’s excitement reached a crescendo, the stage was graced by the soulful sounds of Jon Batiste, a proud native of New Orleans. With his melodic voice and masterful piano skills, Batiste delivered a captivating rendition of the American National Anthem, infusing it with his signature jazz stylings. The performance was a testament to his musical prowess and creativity, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to witness it.
Overall, the pre-game musical performances served as a powerful reminder of the unifying nature of music and its ability to transcend boundaries. Each artist brought their unique style and energy to the stage, creating a memorable experience that resonated with the audience and celebrated the rich tapestry of American music.
