Who Is Performing at the Super Bowl Halftime Show 2025-The Super Bowl halftime show is more than just a break in the action—it’s a cultural juggernaut, a spectacle that draws millions of viewers worldwide, often outshining the game itself. For Super Bowl LIX, held on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, the NFL tapped one of hip-hop’s most acclaimed artists to headline: Kendrick Lamar. As of March 27, 2025, with the performance now in the rearview mirror, Lamar’s show has sparked widespread conversation, praise, and even some controversy. Joined by special guests like SZA, Samuel L. Jackson, Serena Williams, and Mustard, Lamar delivered a performance that was both a musical triumph and a bold statement.
This article dives deep into everything you need to know about the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show: who performed, what they brought to the stage, how it all came together, and why it’s still dominating discussions on YouTube, Google, and beyond. From setlists to surprise cameos, from fan reactions to FCC complaints, here’s the full story of Kendrick Lamar’s historic night.
Kendrick Lamar: The Headliner Who Redefined the Halftime Show
A Hip-Hop Titan Takes the Helm
Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, born in Compton, California, in 1987, is no stranger to the spotlight. With 22 Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize for his 2017 album DAMN., and a catalog that blends raw lyricism with social commentary, Lamar was a natural choice to headline Super Bowl LIX. Announced on September 8, 2024, via a promotional video released by the NFL, Apple Music, and Roc Nation, his selection marked a historic moment: he became the first solo rapper to lead the halftime show, building on his 2022 ensemble appearance alongside Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Mary J. Blige.
In the announcement trailer, directed by his longtime collaborator Dave Free, Lamar stood on a football field, launching passes from a training machine while an American flag loomed large behind him. “My name’s Kendrick Lamar, and I’ll be performing at Super Bowl LIX,” he declared. “Will you be pulling up? I hope so. You know, there’s only one opportunity to win a championship. No round twos.” The line doubled as a subtle jab at rival Drake, fueling speculation about whether Lamar would bring their feud to the Super Bowl stage.
Why Kendrick?
Lamar’s selection wasn’t just about his star power—it was a nod to hip-hop’s growing dominance in mainstream culture and the NFL’s evolving relationship with the genre. Since Jay-Z’s Roc Nation partnered with the league in 2019 to co-produce the halftime show, the performances have leaned heavily into Black artistry, from the 2022 hip-hop extravaganza to Rihanna’s 2023 pop spectacle and Usher’s 2024 R&B showcase. Lamar, fresh off a banner year with his Drake diss track “Not Like Us” topping charts and sweeping the 2025 Grammys (including Song of the Year and Record of the Year), was at the peak of his influence. As NPR’s Sidney Madden noted, “This is one of the most important shows of his career, and it’s happening at a time where he’s never been hotter.”
The Special Guests: A Star-Studded Lineup
SZA: The Soulful Collaborator
On January 23, 2025, Lamar confirmed that SZA, the Grammy-winning R&B sensation, would join him onstage. The announcement came via an Apple Music teaser showing SZA playfully dousing Lamar with a water cooler on a grayscale football field. Their collaboration was no surprise—Lamar and SZA have a rich history, from their Oscar-nominated duet “All the Stars” for Black Panther to tracks like “Doves in the Wind” and “Babylon” on her 2024 album Lana. Their chemistry shone during the halftime show, with SZA adding soulful depth to Lamar’s razor-sharp verses.
Fans on YouTube had speculated about her inclusion for months, with search terms like “Kendrick Lamar SZA Super Bowl 2025” spiking after their joint Grand National Tour was announced for April 2025. Their performance of “Not Like Us” together became a viral moment, cementing their status as a dynamic duo.
Samuel L. Jackson: The Uncle Sam Surprise
One of the night’s biggest shocks was Samuel L. Jackson’s appearance as Uncle Sam, kicking off the show with a booming introduction. Dressed in patriotic garb, Jackson narrated parts of Lamar’s set, weaving a narrative thread about resisting conformity. His gravelly voice punctuated tracks like “Squabble Up,” adding theatrical flair. YouTube clips of Jackson’s entrance racked up millions of views, with fans dubbing him the “emcee of the night.” Google searches for “Samuel L. Jackson Super Bowl 2025” surged, reflecting viewers’ delight—and confusion—over his unexpected role.
Serena Williams: A Cultural Cameo
Tennis legend Serena Williams brought star power and symbolism to the stage, emerging during “Not Like Us” to dance and Crip walk—a nod to her Compton roots and a subtle dig at Drake, whom she once dated. Her appearance sent YouTube into a frenzy, with highlight reels titled “Serena Williams Super Bowl 2025” trending within hours. Fans on Google asked, “Why was Serena Williams at the Super Bowl?” Her presence tied into Lamar’s storytelling, blending personal history with cultural commentary, though it later drew criticism for perceived gang affiliations.
Mustard: The Beatmaker’s Moment
DJ Mustard, the producer behind “Not Like Us,” joined Lamar to perform their chart-topping hit. His turntable skills electrified the crowd, and YouTube breakdowns of his contribution—like “Mustard Super Bowl 2025 highlights”—highlighted his role in shaping the song’s infectious energy. Mustard’s cameo was a victory lap for the LA sound that dominated 2024, bridging West Coast hip-hop with the New Orleans stage.
The Setlist: A Journey Through Kendrick’s Catalog
What Songs Did Kendrick Perform?
Lamar’s 13-minute set was a masterclass in pacing and narrative, blending hits, deep cuts, and unreleased tracks. Here’s the full setlist, based on reports from TODAY and YouTube uploads:
“Unreleased Track” – A somber opener, setting a reflective tone.
“Squabble Up” – From his 2024 album GNX, with Jackson’s narration.
“HUMBLE.” – The Grammy-winning anthem, igniting the crowd.
“DNA.” – A showcase of Lamar’s lyrical prowess.
“Euphoria” – Another Drake diss, amplifying their feud.
“Man at the Garden” – An unreleased cut, teasing future projects.
“Peekaboo” – Performed in an X-shaped box stage, symbolizing confinement.
“TV Off” – A GNX standout, with Mustard’s influence clear.
“Alright” – An uplifting rallying cry from To Pimp a Butterfly.
“Not Like Us” – The finale, featuring SZA, Williams, and Mustard.
YouTube searches for “Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl setlist 2025” exploded post-show, with fans dissecting every choice. Lamar avoided some fan favorites like “Money Trees” or “King Kunta,” opting instead for a thematic arc about identity and resistance.
The “Not Like Us” Moment
The inclusion of “Not Like Us” was inevitable—and electric. Edited for FCC compliance (swapping expletives like “f—” with “freak”), the track still packed a punch, with the crowd roaring along to lines targeting Drake. SZA’s harmonies, Williams’ dance moves, and Mustard’s beats turned it into the night’s defining moment. YouTube clips of this performance topped trending charts, with titles like “Kendrick Lamar Not Like Us Super Bowl 2025” amassing millions of views overnight.
The Production: A Visual and Narrative Triumph
Storytelling Through Symbolism
Lamar promised storytelling, and he delivered. At a February 6 press conference, he said, “I’ve always had a passion about bringing that on whatever stage I’m on.” The show opened with Jackson’s Uncle Sam demanding Lamar play “The Great American Game,” only for Lamar to subvert expectations with introspective tracks. Visuals—like a split American flag and an X-shaped stage—underscored themes of division and entrapment, resonating with his Compton roots and broader critiques of America.
YouTube analysts praised the production, with channels like “HipHopDX” calling it “a cultural moment.” The show’s 133.5 million viewers—the most-watched halftime performance ever, per CBS News—proved its reach, surpassing Michael Jackson’s 1993 record.
Behind the Scenes
Roc Nation, Apple Music, and director Hamish Hamilton (a halftime veteran since 2010) crafted the spectacle. A March 14, 2025, Roc Nation video on YouTube, “Inside the Making of Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show,” revealed the meticulous planning, from choreography to guest coordination. Posts on X noted Lamar’s hands-on role, ensuring every detail aligned with his vision.
Pregame Performances: New Orleans’ Finest
Jon Batiste: The National Anthem
Before Lamar took the stage, New Orleans native Jon Batiste set the tone with a soulful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The Grammy-winning multi-instrumentalist, known for his work on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and Pixar’s Soul, brought local flavor to the pregame. Stephanie Nogueras performed it in American Sign Language (ASL), adding inclusivity.
Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle: “America the Beautiful”
Trombone Shorty, a jazz icon, and Lauren Daigle, a Christian pop star—both Louisiana natives—teamed up for “America the Beautiful.” Their fusion of funk and melody honored New Orleans’ musical heritage, with Nogueras again signing in ASL.
Ledisi: “Lift Every Voice and Sing”
R&B powerhouse Ledisi delivered “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often called the Black National Anthem, with Otis Jones IV signing in ASL. Her performance, a Super Bowl tradition since 2021, moved the crowd, with YouTube clips circulating widely.
“Who Performed at the Super Bowl Halftime Show 2025?”
The top query post-game, answered simply: Kendrick Lamar headlined, with SZA, Samuel L. Jackson, Serena Williams, and Mustard as guests. YouTube searches for “Super Bowl 2025 performers” spiked, reflecting fans’ eagerness to relive the night.
“What Songs Did Kendrick Lamar Perform?”
Fans scoured YouTube for the setlist, with “Not Like Us” and “HUMBLE.” topping requests. The absence of classics like “M.A.A.D City” puzzled some, prompting Google searches like “Why didn’t Kendrick play [song]?”
“Why Was Serena Williams There?”
Her cameo baffled casual viewers, driving searches like “Serena Williams Super Bowl 2025 meaning.” YouTube breakdowns explained her Compton ties and Drake connection, tying it to Lamar’s narrative.
“Was It the Best Halftime Show Ever?”
A hot debate on YouTube, with channels like “The Athletic” ranking it against Prince (2007) and Beyoncé (2013). Its 133.5 million viewers fueled the hype, though some X posts called it “overrated” or “too political.”
“Why Did People Complain?”
Post-show, 125 FCC complaints surfaced, per X posts and CBS News. Critics cited “inappropriate lyrics” (Drake disses), “offensive moves” (Williams’ Crip walking), and “anti-American themes” (flag visuals), sparking YouTube debates about censorship and art.
Reception and Controversy
A Polarizing Performance
Lamar’s show divided audiences. Hip-hop fans on YouTube hailed it as “the greatest ever,” citing its boldness and execution. The Ringer’s Justin Sayles called it the “capstone of Lamar’s ascendant year,” while Andscape’s David Dennis Jr. saw it as a victory lap over Drake. Yet older viewers and conservative critics, per ocolly.com, found it “boring” or “pandering,” questioning a millionaire critiquing capitalism on football’s biggest stage.
The FCC complaints added fuel, with X posts noting objections to “crotch-grabbing” and perceived gang references. A dancer unfurling a Palestine flag—quickly tackled by security—further stirred discourse, trending on YouTube under “Super Bowl 2025 controversy.”
Cultural Impact
At 37, Lamar elevated his legacy, proving hip-hop’s power on a global stage. The show’s viewership and streaming bumps (sales surged post-performance, per historical trends) underscored its reach. YouTube reactions from artists like Venus Williams (“Lil sis killing it”) and Snoop Dogg affirmed its resonance.
The Bigger Picture: Super Bowl LIX Highlights
The Game
The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22, ending the Chiefs’ three-peat bid. Taylor Swift, cheering for Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, didn’t join Lamar onstage (despite fan hopes for “Bad Blood”), but her presence boosted female viewership, per NPR.
Other Performances
The pregame and halftime weren’t the only musical moments. The Southern University Human Jukebox Marching Band played during pregame festivities, honoring HBCU tradition, while Matt Maxey signed Lamar’s set in ASL.
FAQS
Who performed at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2025?
Kendrick Lamar headlined the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, marking his first time as the solo lead act. The 22-time Grammy-winning rapper brought his signature intensity to New Orleans, joined by special guests SZA, Samuel L. Jackson, Serena Williams, and Mustard. It was a star-studded affair that blended hip-hop mastery with unexpected cameos, making history as the first solo rap headliner in Super Bowl history.
Was Kendrick Lamar the only performer at the halftime show?
No, Kendrick didn’t go it alone! He shared the stage with:
SZA, his frequent collaborator and R&B powerhouse, who added soulful vibes.
Samuel L. Jackson, appearing as Uncle Sam, kicking off the show with theatrical flair.
Serena Williams, the tennis legend, who danced and introduced “Not Like Us” with a memorable strut.
Mustard, the DJ and producer, who joined Kendrick for a high-energy segment. This lineup turned the 13-minute performance into a dynamic showcase of music, culture, and star power.
Why was Kendrick Lamar chosen to headline Super Bowl 2025?
Kendrick Lamar’s selection was a no-brainer for the NFL, Apple Music, and Roc Nation (Jay-Z’s production company). Fresh off a dominant 2024—highlighted by his Drake diss track “Not Like Us” winning Song and Record of the Year at the 2025 Grammys—Kendrick was at the peak of his cultural influence. Jay-Z called him a “once-in-a-generation artist” whose love for hip-hop and ability to redefine culture made him the perfect fit. Plus, his prior Super Bowl cameo in 2022 with Dr. Dre proved he could rock the big stage.
What songs did Kendrick Lamar perform at the Super Bowl 2025 halftime show?
Kendrick delivered a nearly dozen-song setlist that mixed classics with recent hits:
“Squabble Up” (from GNX)
“Money Trees”
“m.A.A.d city”
“HUMBLE.”
“Alright”
“DNA.”
“TV Off” (featuring Mustard)
“Not Like Us” (with Serena Williams’ intro)
Snippets of “Euphoria” and “King Kunta” woven into transitions. SZA joined for a soulful rendition of their collab “All the Stars”. The set was a storytelling journey, reflecting Kendrick’s Compton roots and his 2025 LA energy, as he described in a pre-show press conference.
Did Kendrick Lamar perform “Not Like Us” at the Super Bowl?
Yes, and it was a moment! Serena Williams introduced the track with a dance that had the crowd roaring, and Kendrick performed an edited version to comply with FCC guidelines—toning down some of the spicier Drake disses. The performance, backed by a split American flag visual, sparked 125 FCC complaints for its “inappropriate lyrics” and “offensive dance moves” (like Serena’s Crip walking), but it’s widely regarded as the night’s highlight.
Who else performed at Super Bowl LIX besides the halftime show?
The pregame festivities featured Louisiana natives celebrating New Orleans’ musical legacy:
Jon Batiste sang the national anthem, bringing his Grammy-winning flair.
Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle teamed up for “America the Beautiful.”
Ledisi performed “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often called the Black National Anthem. ASL performers Stephanie Nogueras, Otis Jones IV, and Matt Maxey accompanied these acts, ensuring inclusivity.
Was this Kendrick Lamar’s first Super Bowl performance?
Nope! Kendrick made his Super Bowl debut in 2022 during Dr. Dre’s hip-hop extravaganza alongside Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and 50 Cent. That show won three Emmys, and critics raved about Kendrick’s “electrifying” contribution. His 2025 headlining gig was a step up, giving him the full spotlight.
Were there any surprise guests at the 2025 halftime show?
Yes, the surprises were epic! While SZA was announced beforehand, Samuel L. Jackson, Serena Williams, and Mustard were unadvertised additions that sent fans into a frenzy. Speculation had swirled about potential cameos from Baby Keem, Dr. Dre, or even Lil Wayne (given the New Orleans connection), but the chosen guests tied perfectly into Kendrick’s narrative.
How long was the Super Bowl 2025 halftime show?
The performance clocked in at around 13 minutes, a standard length for Super Bowl halftime shows. It started around 8:30 p.m. ET, midway through the Chiefs vs. Eagles game, which kicked off at 6:30 p.m. ET. Kendrick packed a lot into that time, blending high-energy tracks with cinematic moments.
Who produced the Super Bowl 2025 halftime show?
The show was a collaborative effort:
DPS handled the telecast production.
Roc Nation (Jay-Z’s company) and Jesse Collins served as executive producers.
Hamish Hamilton directed, continuing his streak since 2010.
Kendrick’s creative agency, pgLang, co-founded with Dave Free, shaped the artistic vision, ensuring his personal stamp was all over it.
How many people watched the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show?
The show smashed records with 133.5 million viewers across Fox, Fox Deportes, Tubi, and NFL+ platforms, making it the most-watched halftime show ever in the U.S., surpassing Michael Jackson’s 1993 performance. Kendrick’s global pull and the buzz around his setlist drove the massive audience.
Was there any controversy surrounding the 2025 halftime show?
Oh, yes! Posts on X and news reports noted 125 FCC complaints citing “anti-American themes” (the split flag), “inappropriate lyrics” (Drake disses), and “offensive moves” (Serena’s Crip walking). Some also debated Kendrick’s selection over New Orleans native Lil Wayne, who’d campaigned for the gig. Despite the noise, the performance was a critical and cultural win.
Where can I watch the Super Bowl 2025 halftime show again?
Missed it or want a replay? You’re in luck:
Apple Music offers the full performance in Spatial Audio, plus exclusive interviews and playlists.
NFL’s YouTube channel and Fox Sports have highlights.
Roc Nation’s site dropped a behind-the-scenes video on March 14, 2025, giving fans an inside look.
How does Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 show compare to past halftime performances?
Kendrick’s set is already being hailed as one of the greats, rivaling Prince (2007) and Beyoncé (2013) for its cultural impact. Unlike Usher’s 2024 roller-skating spectacle or Rihanna’s 2023 pregnancy reveal, Kendrick’s show leaned into raw hip-hop energy and storytelling, cementing rap’s place on the Super Bowl stage.
What’s next for Kendrick Lamar after the Super Bowl?
Post-Super Bowl, Kendrick’s on fire. He and SZA announced a UK and Europe tour starting in summer 2025, riding the wave of their halftime chemistry. His latest album, GNX (November 2024), keeps climbing charts, and fans are already speculating about more music in 2025. The Super Bowl was a victory lap—and a launchpad.
From Kendrick’s historic headlining moment to the pregame’s local flavor, Super Bowl LIX was a musical feast. Whether you’re dissecting the setlist or debating the guest stars.
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