Halftime Show Review: Kendrick Lamar Makes History

This year’s Super Bowl halftime performance left me completely shocked—like, jaw-on-the-floor type of shocked. To be honest, I knew Kendrick Lamar would make a statement, but the way he executed it? Diabolical. I wasn’t surprised he performed that song, but looking directly into the camera and mentioning Drake’s name? That was next-level. We’ve seen rap beef play out in songs, social media, and even award shows, but never on a stage this massive. This was the Super Bowl. This was history.

Kendrick Lamar is no stranger to pushing the culture forward, and being the first rapper to headline the halftime show was already a major statement. But the way he used his platform to deliver a performance that was both thought-provoking and theatrical felt right on brand for him. He’s always been the rebel with a message, and last night, he delivered a masterclass in artistic storytelling.

Kendrick Lamar performs for the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show
Bob Kupbens / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Samuel L. Jackson playing Uncle Sam? Perfect casting. The way Kendrick’s performance blended social commentary with hip-hop culture was brilliant. The red, white, and blue color scheme symbolizing America while subtly tying in gang undertones? A genius-level artistic move. Every frame of this performance had layers to unpack. It was hip-hop, it was protest, it was poetry—it was Kendrick Lamar.

Of course, SZA came through looking flawless. Even though most of her part was lip-synced, everything sounded great, and her presence elevated the show. And let’s be real—people love to nitpick Kendrick. The same way Usher got unfair criticism last year, Kendrick is going to face that same scrutiny. But at the end of the day, he delivered a halftime show that will be talked about for years.

Samuel Jackson, as “Uncle Sam,” and Kendrick Lamar on stage during the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show.
Patrick Smith / Getty Images/Getty Images

For artists like Kendrick, moments like this don’t just happen. They break open doors. This performance wasn’t just about putting on a show; it was about shifting the culture, setting a new standard, and proving that hip-hop belongs on the biggest stage in the world. And as an artist and music scholar, I found it nothing short of inspiring. I can’t wait to see what opportunities this moment creates for future artists who carry the same fearless spirit.

What did you think of the performance? Let’s talk about it in the comments!