Kendrick Lamar delivers excellence during Super Bowl LIX halftime show

by

The Super Bowl half-time show has evolved significantly over time. In the early days when the game was played soon after the Earth had cooled, marching bands and groups like Up With People were often the main acts. However, things changed in the 1990s when the NFL recognized they could offer something more during the breaks of the game.

Indeed, it made perfect sense for the NFL to take such an action. Often, the games were one-sided, leading to a potential loss of viewer interest. To prevent this, they decided to invite high-profile musicians as guests, ensuring viewers wouldn’t stray towards PBS or the store. It was a shrewd decision.

2025’s Super Bowl half-time performance was handled by Kendrick Lamar. It was anticipated that he might have some assistance from SZA, and indeed he did, more about that later. However, it’s worth mentioning that Lamar wasn’t a complete stranger to the halftime show; he lent a hand during Super Bowl LVI when Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Eminem were part of the act. But this time, it was Lamar’s moment in the spotlight.

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime show as good as the game itself

Before delving into it, let me share that the musical introduction was simply remarkable. The Southern University marching band, one of those impressive ensembles, delivered an outstanding performance. Their energy was infectious. Similarly, New Orleans native Harry Connick Jr., contrary to any assumptions about him being from a bygone era, was exceptional, albeit in a more restrained manner.

Indeed, let’s revisit Lamar. He hosted Samuel L. Jackson, who embodied Uncle Sam, making it quite intriguing. Additionally, he invited SZA, which was simply spectacular.

As a devoted fan, I can honestly say that what truly set Lamar’s halftime show apart was his restraint – he didn’t overdo it. There was no Lady Gaga-style spectacle because it simply wouldn’t have felt right. Instead, he delivered one powerful track after another, even throwing in a mesmerizing medley that included “DNA.” It was nothing short of extraordinary.

One problem lies in how the half-time shows are produced. They appear to be prerecorded, diminishing the sense of a live event. However, the fact that they’re live adds an element of awe and wonder. Yet, the production process seems to detract from this live feel.

KENDRICK!!! @KendrickLamar #AppleMusicHalftime

— NFL (@NFL) February 10, 2025

Additionally, there wasn’t much originality to be found. Certain elements of the performances seemed reminiscent of The Weeknd, rather than the creative vision of Lamar’s team. Regardless, the half-time show was still a worthwhile spectacle.

What makes him special? It’s the power in Kendrick Lamar’s creations, his knack for knowing when to speed up or slow down tunes for maximum impact. His song “Humble” showed off his potential and entertainment value to a wide audience, even appealing to those who might not be fans of rap music. In essence, he has the ability to deliver something enjoyable to many.

While his performance didn’t reach the heights of Prince, it certainly wasn’t disappointing. He even performed “Not Like Us,” despite potential legal issues. Kendrick Lamar definitely delivered a powerful show.

Read More

2025-02-10 05:00