Kendrick Lamar didn’t just perform at the Super Bowl halftime show—he made a statement. Fresh off his Grammy sweep for Not Like Us, the diss track that reignited his feud with Drake, Lamar used the global stage to deliver a mix of new hits, classic anthems, and a few not-so-subtle jabs at his longtime rival. Here’s the breakdown of his headline-making performance:
The Setup: A Star-Studded Intro
The show kicked off with Samuel L. Jackson, dressed as Uncle Sam, introducing Lamar with a cheeky line: “You picked the right time for the wrong guy.” The phrase, later echoed by Lamar himself, set the tone for a performance brimming with confidence and swagger.
The Music: Hits, New Tracks, and a Drake Diss
Lamar’s 15-minute set was a masterclass in showmanship, blending tracks from his latest album GNX with fan-favorite hits. But the highlight came when he teased Not Like Us, the Grammy-winning diss track that cemented his victory in the feud with Drake.
- The Tease:
Lamar played the opening notes of Not Like Us, only to pause and say, “I’d like to play this song, but you know they love to sue.” The crowd erupted in laughter and cheers, a clear nod to Drake’s January 15 lawsuit against Universal Music Group over the track. - The Context:
Not Like Us was the final blow in a summer-long exchange of diss tracks between the two rap titans. Lamar’s track not only dominated streaming charts but also earned him five Grammys, including Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance.
The Feud: A Recap
The Lamar-Drake feud has been one of the most talked-about rivalries in hip-hop history. Here’s how it unfolded:
- The Spark:
Lamar’s Not Like Us accused Drake of predatory behavior and questioned his authenticity as an artist. - The Fallout:
Drake responded with his own diss tracks, but Lamar’s sharp lyrics and public support from fans and critics gave him the upper hand. - The Aftermath:
Despite Drake’s popularity, many fans have sided with Lamar, praising his artistry and lyrical prowess.
Fan Reactions: Social Media Erupts
X (formerly Twitter) was ablaze during and after the performance, with fans applauding Lamar’s boldness:
- “Kendrick just ended Drake’s career on the Super Bowl stage. Legendary.”
- “The way he paused ‘Not Like Us’ to troll Drake… Kendrick is untouchable.”
- “Drake thought he could sue his way out of this feud. Kendrick just proved he’s on another level.”
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for Hip-Hop
Lamar’s halftime show wasn’t just about settling scores—it was a celebration of his artistry and a reminder of his dominance in the rap game. By blending new music, classic hits, and a touch of drama, he solidified his status as one of the greatest performers of his generation.
Final Takeaway
Kendrick Lamar didn’t just perform at the Super Bowl—he made history. With subtle digs at Drake and a setlist that showcased his versatility, he proved once again why he’s a force to be reckoned with. As the feud fades into the background, one thing is clear: Lamar is the undisputed king of hip-hop.
