Super Bowl LIX is coming up on February 9, 2025, and it’s already stirring up excitement. The game, set in New Orleans, Louisiana, promises to be unforgettable—but it’s the halftime show that has everyone talking.
Fans are divided over the headliner, Kendrick Lamar, and some are even upset that a beloved Louisiana legend, Lil Wayne, didn’t get the coveted spot.
In September 2024, the NFL announced that Kendrick Lamar would be the halftime headliner at the Caesars Superdome. The announcement created a lot of buzz, with fans eager to see the rap icon perform on one of the biggest stages in the world.
But it wasn’t just Kendrick Lamar—Grammy-winning artist SZA was revealed to be joining him for the performance, which raised even more anticipation.
A playful teaser trailer released by Apple Music, the official sponsor of the halftime show, gave fans a taste of what was to come. In the black-and-white clip, Lamar is shown pacing across a huge football field, talking on the phone casually.
“This field’s a lot bigger than what it looks,” he says, taking in the vastness of the venue. The lighthearted moment quickly turns into a fun surprise when SZA, who had been lurking nearby, splashes him with a water cooler filled with sparkling blue liquid.
Her mischievous grin had fans laughing and even more excited to see the duo’s chemistry when the big day arrived.
SZA shared her excitement on Instagram, posting, “Taking the stage with @Kendricklamar!” The announcement was a big moment for Kendrick, who would be headlining the Super Bowl for the first time in his career.
But this wasn’t his first time performing at the Super Bowl. Back in 2022, he had joined a star-studded lineup with Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and others for an epic halftime show.
Fans were quick to express their thoughts. One social media user wrote, “Kendrick deserves it.” Another shared, “Back in like 2016 I said Kendrick is the GOAT, I’m happy he has proven me right every step of the way.”
But not everyone was excited. One person commented, “As a Gen Z member, I’m not a fan of him. I would appreciate it if it were Ice Cube, Chris Brown, Ludacris, Ne-Yo, Ciara, or Janet Jackson (she deserves a second chance imo).”
Another person said, “Sick of rap at the Super Bowl. It is the lowest denominator of music, in my humble opinion.” Some even said they wouldn’t watch. One user wrote, “It’ll be the only Super Bowl halftime show I’ve skipped. Can’t stand his voice.”
Despite the mixed reactions to Kendrick Lamar, the Super Bowl LIX halftime show is packed with more talent. Four Louisiana-born artists have been enlisted to bring local flair to the night.
Jon Batiste, a famous jazz singer and multi-instrumentalist, will perform the national anthem. “I’m excited to figure out an arrangement that lasts the test of time,” Batiste said, looking forward to the performance.
Other performers include Lauren Daigle, a Christian singer, and jazz musician Trombone Shorty, who will perform “America the Beautiful.” R&B legend Ledisi is also set to perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” completing a lineup that honors Louisiana’s musical legacy.
But it’s not just about the performers. One Louisiana legend, Lil Wayne, had strong feelings about the halftime show announcement. Many fans expected Wayne, who is considered one of the greatest rappers of all time, to be the one to headline this year’s Super Bowl.
Instead, they got Kendrick Lamar. Lil Wayne shared his emotions in an Instagram video, his voice trembling as he spoke. “First of all, I wanna say forgive me for the delay,” Wayne began, looking visibly upset. “I had to get strength enough to do this without breaking.”
Wayne went on to express his disappointment. “I blame myself for not being mentally prepared for a letdown,” he said, pausing as he tried to hold back tears. “But I thought there was nothing better than that spot and that stage and that platform in my city, so it hurt.”
He then thanked his fans, saying, “Thank you to every voice, every opinion, all the care, all the love, and the support out there.”
Kendrick Lamar, who became aware of Wayne’s feelings, seemed to respond through his music. In November 2024, he surprised his fans by releasing his sixth album, GNX. On the opening track, “Wacced Out Murals,” Lamar reflected on the situation.
“Used to bump Tha Carter III, I held my Rollie chain proud / Irony, I think my hard work let Lil Wayne down,” he rapped, hinting at the emotions tied to the Super Bowl decision.
For fans who are eager to see Super Bowl LIX live, the event will be available for streaming on platforms like the Fox Sports app, Tubi, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Sling TV.
With the drama surrounding the halftime show, the performances from these legendary artists, and the game itself, Super Bowl LIX is shaping up to be one of the most exciting nights in sports and entertainment history.
Whether you’re a fan of rap, jazz, or just love a great halftime show, this year’s event is sure to deliver a performance like no other.
