Kendrick Lamar Delivers Explosive Super Bowl Halftime Performance, Takes Aim at Drake

Kendrick Lamar took the stage at New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome for the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, marking a milestone as the first solo hip-hop artist to headline the event.

Actor Samuel L. Jackson, dressed as Uncle Sam, introduced Lamar with a powerful message, setting the stage for a politically charged and culturally significant performance.

Super Bowl Halftime Performance — *Photo via Mike Segar/Reuters*

A Bold and Thematic Setlist

Lamar opened with GNX and moved through Squabble Up, commanding attention with his signature storytelling. Dancers, clad in red, white, and blue, performed alongside him while Jackson’s character mocked their presence, calling them “too loud, too reckless, too ghetto.” The message resonated with Lamar’s themes of resistance and perseverance.

The performance continued with hits like Humble., DNA., Euphoria, and Man at the Garden. Jackson interrupted mid-set, stating, “Score keeper, deduct one life.” Lamar responded by launching into Peakboo, leading up to the highly anticipated moment—his performance of Not Like Us.

Lamar’s Subtle but Sharp Jab at Drake

Before performing Not Like Us, Lamar made a pointed reference to his ongoing feud with Drake. “I wanna play their favorite song, but you know they love to sue,” he told his dancers, alluding to Drake’s lawsuit against Universal Music Group over the track’s lyrics.

As Lamar performed, Mustard, the track’s producer, joined him on stage. In the crowd, Serena Williams was seen crip walking to the song, adding another layer of cultural significance to the moment.

SZA Joins for Surprise Duets

SZA, a frequent collaborator, made an appearance, performing Luther and All the Stars alongside Lamar. Jackson, staying in character, quipped, “That’s what America wants—nice and calm.” The set took a turn immediately after, as Lamar delivered an altered version of Not Like Us, omitting the word “pedophiles” but maintaining its core message.

A Super Bowl Performance With Lasting Impact

Lamar closed out his performance with TV Off, reinforcing his ability to blend artistry with sharp social commentary. This wasn’t his first Super Bowl, having appeared in 2022 alongside Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, and Eminem.

*Photo via Ashley Landis/The Associated Press*

When first announced as the 2025 halftime performer, Lamar emphasized rap’s dominance in the music industry. “Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date,” he said. “And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one.”

Lamar delivered on that promise, making a statement that extended beyond music into the realms of culture, politics, and social justice.

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