The highly anticipated Super Bowl 2025 halftime show featured recent Grammy winner Kendrick Lamar and SZA, a event that promised a rich and energetic performance.
In a historic performance at the Super Bowl LIX halftime show on Feb. 9, 2025, Kendrick Lamar captivated New Orleans’s Caesars Superdome audiences with a powerful 13-minute set that seamlessly blended music, storytelling, and social commentary. As the first solo hip-hop artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show, Lamar’s performance celebrated his musical journey and profound reflection on American culture.
As the lights dimmed, the show began with an introduction by Samuel L. Jackson dressed as Uncle Sam, declaring the halftime show as the “great American game.” Lamar showed up on top of a black vehicle, delivering the opening lines of “Bodies.” This powerful opening set the tone for a performance that would delve deep into themes of identity, societal changes, and resilience.
Gabi Mugiya, a sophomore on Aliso’s dance team, says, “The opening really grabbed my attention. It was creative and unlike any Super Bowl performance yet.”
Throughout the performance, Lamar performed his most popular songs, including “Humble,” “DNA” and “Euphoria.” Each track was accompanied by astounding choreography and stunning pyrotechnics that increased the intensity of the show. The stage design included dancers forming an American flag, symbolizing unity and representing the nation’s cultural diversity.
A highlight of the evening was the surprise appearance of SZA, who joined Lamar during “Luther” and their famous collaboration of “All the Stars.” Their chemistry on stage was electric, with synchronized movements and harmonies that left fans mesmerized. Adding to the star-studded lineup, tennis legend Serena Williams made a brief yet memorable appearance, dancing alongside Lamar and SZA, much to the delight of the audience.
One of the most talked-about moments of the night was Lamar’s performance of “Not Like Us,” a Grammy-nominated track that had gained significant popularity across the nation. While the song is widely recognized for its energetic beat and powerful lyrics, its inclusion in the setlist was viewed as a bold statement, especially given its context within the music industry and its rumored references to fellow artists.
Matthew Balana (10) says, “I thought Serena Williams’ appearance in the show caused lots of conflict, especially since she was dancing to a song directed to Drake.”
Reflecting on his career in a pre-Super Bowl interview, Lamar emphasized his deep connection to hip-hop’s competitive spirit and his relentless pursuit of artistic innovation. However, his performance was more than just a musical performance; it was a cultural moment that showcased the power of hip-hop while blending American culture. Lamar secured his place as one of the most impactful artists of his generation.
The 2025 Super Bowl halftime show will be remembered not just for its star power but for its ability to blend emotional depth, high-energy entertainment, and stunning visuals—an undeniable triumph for music and culture. Many are already calling it one of the best halftime shows in history, setting a new standard for performances to come.
