The Super Bowl LIX halftime show has ignited a passionate discussion among fans, with reactions split over this year’s main act. While some praise the bold selection, others feel let down—especially one Louisiana icon who believes he was snubbed.
Set to take place on February 9 at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Super Bowl LIX is already shaping up to be an unforgettable night. In September 2024, Kendrick Lamar was announced as the headliner, marking a major milestone in his career.
The reveal came with an entertaining teaser, courtesy of Apple Music, the official halftime show sponsor. The black-and-white clip featured Lamar pacing across a massive football field, remarking, “This field a lot bigger than what it looks,” as he soaked in the scale of the venue.
The playful moment took a turn when Grammy-winning artist SZA, who was later confirmed as a special guest, caught Lamar off guard by drenching him with a cooler of sparkling blue liquid. Her mischievous grin added a lighthearted touch, leaving fans eager to see their onstage chemistry unfold.
Excitement for the duo’s performance quickly spread on social media, with SZA sharing her enthusiasm on Instagram, writing, “Taking the stage with @Kendricklamar!”
Fans React: Excitement and Criticism
Lamar’s selection sparked widespread discussion online. Many fans expressed their excitement, with one posting, “Kendrick deserves it,” and another declaring, “I knew back in 2016 he was the GOAT—he’s proven me right every step of the way.”
Others, however, were less enthusiastic. Some criticized Lamar’s live performances, while others voiced their disappointment over yet another rap act headlining the Super Bowl.
“As a Gen Z member, I’m not a fan,” one person commented. “I’d rather see Ice Cube, Chris Brown, Ludacris, Ne-Yo, Ciara, or Janet Jackson—she deserves a second chance.”
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Another shared, “Sick of rap at the Super Bowl. It’s the lowest denominator of music IMHO.” Others went so far as to say they’d be skipping the halftime show altogether.
Louisiana Talent Joins the Super Bowl Lineup
Lamar and SZA won’t be the only performers bringing music to Super Bowl LIX. The NFL has enlisted four Louisiana-born artists to highlight the region’s rich musical legacy.
Grammy-winning musician Jon Batiste will deliver the national anthem, expressing his excitement about the honor: “I’m looking forward to creating an arrangement that stands the test of time.”
Meanwhile, Christian artist Lauren Daigle and jazz musician Trombone Shorty will collaborate on a rendition of “America the Beautiful.” R&B powerhouse Ledisi will round out the lineup with a performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
Lil Wayne Reacts to Being Passed Over
One of Louisiana’s biggest rap legends, Lil Wayne, didn’t hold back his emotions after learning he wouldn’t be headlining the Super Bowl in his hometown.
In an emotional Instagram video, Wayne shared his disappointment, admitting, “I blame myself for not being mentally prepared for a letdown. I thought there was nothing bigger than that stage in my city, so it hurt.”
His sentiments seemingly didn’t go unnoticed by Lamar. In a track from his surprise album, GNX, released on November 22, Lamar acknowledged Wayne’s reaction.
“Used to bump Tha Carter III, I held my Rollie chain proud / Irony, I think my hard work let Lil Wayne down,” Lamar raps in Wacced Out Murals, hinting at his awareness of the situation.
