The Meaning of Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s Super Bowl Performance
The Super Bowl is one of the biggest events in the world. Every year, millions of people watch the game, but they also watch the halftime show. This year, rapper Kendrick Lamar and singer SZA (click here to learn more) performed together. With this their show had a deep meaning. It was not just about music. It was about history, culture, and the power of storytelling.
A Powerful Beginning
The performance started with a big surprise. Actor Samuel L. Jackson appeared on the screen, dressed like Uncle Sam. Uncle Sam is a symbol of the United States, and his image is often used to talk about America’s history. Jackson’s speech was about “The Great American Game.” This was not only about football but also about the way people live and struggle in America.
On the stage, Kendrick Lamar stood on top of a black Impala car. This car is important because it represents the neighborhoods he grew up in. Lamar’s songs often talk about life in Compton CA where many people face challenges. By standing on this car, he reminded people of where he came from and the experiences that shaped him.
The Songs and Their Meanings
Lamar performed some of his biggest hits, including "HUMBLE.," "DNA.," and "Euphoria." Each of these songs has a special message.
"HUMBLE." is about staying true to yourself. Even when people become famous, they should not forget who they are.
"DNA." talks about the struggles and strengths that come from one’s background. It reminds people that their history and family shape who they are.
"Euphoria" is a newer song that touches on emotions, love, and self-discovery.
Lamar’s stage was designed like a chess board. This was a symbol of strategy and making smart moves. Just like in the game, life is about making choices and trying to win despite challenges.
A Moment of Tension
One of the most surprising moments was when Kendrick Lamar performed "Not Like Us." This song is known for being a response to another rapper, Drake. Many people believe that there is a rivalry between the two artists. By performing this song, Lamar made a statement. He wanted to show that he is confident and not afraid to address conflicts in his music. This performance got a lot of attention because it was a bold move at a big event.
SZA Joins the Stage
SZA, a talented singer, joined Lamar on stage. She performed "Luther" and "All the Stars."
"Luther" is a song that might be inspired by Lamar’s personal life. Many people believe it is about his past relationships and the lessons he has learned.
"All the Stars" is a song from the movie Black Panther. It is about hope, dreams, and believing in yourself. This song was a perfect choice because it connected with the theme of the performance.
SZA’s voice added a soft and emotional touch to the show. Her presence made the performance even more powerful and memorable.
Symbols and Messages
Throughout the show, there were many symbols that carried deep meanings. For example, the dancers moved in a way that formed the American flag. This was a reminder that Lamar’s performance was not just about music but also about America as a whole. His lyrics often talk about the struggles of Black Americans, and this show was a way to bring attention to those issues.
Samuel L. Jackson appeared again during the performance. He made comments about how some people judge rap music and Black culture. His words made people think about how music can be powerful and important. Rap is not just entertainment—it is a way to tell stories and share truths.
Why This Performance Mattered
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show was more than just a concert. It was a statement. He used his time on stage to talk about identity, history, and the challenges people face. He wanted to show that hip-hop is not just about beats and rhymes—it is about real-life stories.
This performance was special because it’s messages . From the choice of songs to the stage design, everything had a purpose. It reminded people to think deeply, ask questions, and understand the world around them.
Serena Williams's Surprise Appearance at Super Bowl Halftime Show
During the Super Bowl LIX halftime show , tennis legend Serena Williams made a surprise appearance during Kendrick Lamar's performance. Williams joined Lamar on stage as he performed "Not Like Us," a track widely interpreted as a diss aimed at rapper Drake, with whom Williams was previously romantically linked. Her participation added a layer of significance to the performance, given her past association with Drake.
Both Williams and Lamar share roots in Compton, CA, which further underscored the connection during the performance.
Williams's cameo was brief but impactful, as she danced alongside Lamar, contributing to a moment that resonated with audiences and garnered significant attention on social media.
This collaboration highlighted the intersection of sports and music, with Williams's presence amplifying the cultural impact of the halftime show. Her involvement not only emphasized her personal connection to the themes of the performance but also showcased her versatility and influence beyond the tennis court.
A Lasting Impact
Many people will remember this halftime show for years to come. Lamar and SZA showed that music can be powerful and educational. They proved that the Super Bowl stage can be used to send a message, not just entertain. This performance will likely inspire many artists to use their music to talk about important issues in the future.
In the end, Kendrick Lamar and SZA gave the world something to think about. They made history with their performance, and their message will stay in people's minds.
References
AP News. (2025, February 9). Review: Kendrick Lamar brings America and 'Not Like Us' into history-making Super Bowl halftime show. Retrieved from https://apnews.com/article/1dc2bce615ebfba0c8af0ea7c3ce4b9d
Vanity Fair. (2025, February 9). Kendrick Lamar's Halftime Show Put the Focus on a Major Drake Diss at the Super Bowl 2025. Retrieved from https://www.vanityfair.com/style/story/kendrick-lamar-halftime-show-super-bowl-2025
Teen Vogue. (2025, February 9). Watch Kendrick Lamar Perform Super Bowl 2025 Halftime Show. Retrieved from https://www.teenvogue.com/story/watch-kendrick-lamar-perform-super-bowl-2025-halftime-show
Capital FM. (2025, February 9). Kendrick Lamar & SZA: The Meaning Behind Their Super Bowl Performance. Retrieved from https://www.capitalfm.com/news/music/kendrick-lamar-luther-lyrics-meaning-sza-who
Serena Williams
Decider. (2025, February 9). Serena Williams – Drake's ex – makes a surprise appearance during Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime show. Retrieved from https://decider.com/2025/02/09/serena-williams-drake-ex-surprise-appearance-kendrick-lamar-super-bowl-halftime/
People. (2025, February 9). Serena Williams 'died a little' during her surprise cameo in Kendrick Lamar's 2025 Super Bowl halftime performance. Retrieved from https://people.com/super-bowl-2025-serena-williams-died-a-little-during-halftime-show-cameo-8788725
SB Nation. (2025, February 9). Serena Williams danced to 'Not Like Us' at Super Bowl, and Drake probably needs to disappear permanently. Retrieved from https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2025/2/9/24362478/serena-williams-not-like-us-super-bowl-kedrick-lamar-drake-video