(ThyBlackMan.com) The anticipation for the Super Bowl LIX halftime show was at an all-time high when the NFL announced that Kendrick Lamar would be headlining the coveted performance slot. As a Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper and one of the most critically acclaimed artists of the modern era, fans expected Lamar to deliver something extraordinary.
Unfortunately, what they got was a bland, uninspired, and downright forgettable show that left many questioning whether the NFL made the right call in choosing him for the biggest stage in entertainment.
A Performance That Lacked Energy and Innovation
Kendrick Lamar has built a career on lyricism, storytelling, and meaningful social commentary—but those elements didn’t translate well into an arena that demanded spectacle and engagement. Instead of delivering a dynamic performance that blended theatrical elements with his signature sound, Lamar’s set felt flat and disjointed.
Rather than embracing the high-energy, festival-style excitement that halftime shows are known for, Lamar’s performance was subdued, almost to the point of being dull. Fans who expected elaborate stage designs, innovative choreography, and surprise guests were left with a minimalistic set and a lack of showmanship. It’s as if Lamar underestimated just how big the Super Bowl stage is—it’s not just about the music; it’s about creating a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Fan Reactions:
- “I love Kendrick, but this wasn’t it. The stage setup was boring, and there was no hype. He should’ve had at least one guest.” – @NFLFan84
- “Bro really thought we wanted a ‘woke’ performance at the Super Bowl. This ain’t the Grammys. We needed ENERGY!” – @HipHopHead99
- “This is what the NFL booked? This is what we waited for? I could’ve streamed a Tiny Desk performance instead.” – @SuperBowlWatcher
Where Was Lil Wayne?
Perhaps the biggest question lingering after the halftime show was: Why didn’t Kendrick bring out Lil Wayne?
This was the perfect opportunity to pay homage to New Orleans, the host city of the Super Bowl, and its deep-rooted influence on hip-hop. Lil Wayne is not only a New Orleans legend but also one of the most influential rappers of all time. His presence would have electrified the stadium and given the show a much-needed jolt of energy.
Instead, Lamar chose to go it alone, failing to capitalize on the possibility of a major surprise guest. The NFL has always banked on collaborations to elevate halftime performances—Beyoncé brought out Bruno Mars and Coldplay, Dr. Dre had Eminem and 50 Cent, and even last year’s show featured Usher bringing out Alicia Keys. Lamar’s decision to perform solo felt like a missed opportunity to make the show feel bigger than just himself.
Fan Reactions:
- “So you mean to tell me Kendrick was in Lil Wayne’s city and didn’t even give us ‘A Milli’ or something? Nah, man. Wasted opportunity.” – @NOLA4Ever
- “Imagine if Wayne had come out and did ‘Lollipop’ or ‘Go DJ’—the place would’ve gone crazy. Kendrick fumbled.” – @RapTalk101
- “This was the most awkward Super Bowl performance I’ve seen in a while. At least bring out someone to hype the crowd!” – @SportsGuru22
Did the NFL Drop the Ball?
The NFL had the chance to create a halftime show that catered to a wide audience, but instead, they banked on an artist who isn’t known for mainstream appeal in terms of live performance energy. Lamar’s music is deeply respected, but is he truly the artist to deliver an explosive halftime spectacle?
A halftime show should have universal appeal, drawing in casual fans and die-hard music lovers alike. Instead, Kendrick Lamar’s performance catered only to a niche audience, leaving many viewers underwhelmed. When compared to past performances from legends like Prince, Michael Jackson, and even Rihanna last year, Lamar’s set simply didn’t hold up.
Fan Reactions:
- “The NFL really thought a Kendrick Lamar halftime show was a good idea? They set him up for failure. He’s not that type of artist.” – @GameDaySports
- “Should’ve been Lil Wayne, Usher, or even freaking Nicki Minaj. Anyone but this snoozefest.” – @HalftimeHype
- “It felt like a BET Awards performance, not a Super Bowl halftime show. No disrespect, but this ain’t what we needed.” – @MusicLover22
“Not Like Us” Is Played Out
Another major issue? The reliance on “Not Like Us” as the highlight of the show.
There was already speculation about whether Lamar would perform his Drake diss track, “Not Like Us,” at the Super Bowl. While the track was undeniably a cultural moment in hip-hop, it’s played out at this point. The song’s impact was at its peak months ago, and choosing it as a defining moment in his halftime show felt like a desperate attempt to stay relevant.
Fans deserved better. Instead of leaning on controversy, Lamar could have given us a more well-rounded selection of his hits, from “HUMBLE.” to “Bitch, Don’t Kill My Vibe” or even “Alright.” But instead, he chose to rehash old drama in front of a national audience, and it backfired.
Fan Reactions:
- “‘Not Like Us’ AGAIN?! Kendrick, we get it. It was hot last year. Move on.” – @DrakeFanatic
- “The fact that this man really thought the biggest sports event in the world was the place for a diss track is crazy.” – @SportsAndBeats
- “This was his chance to remind people why he’s a GOAT. Instead, he gave us a petty rap beef moment. Lame.” – @RapCultureDaily
A Forgettable Halftime Show
In the end, Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime performance failed to live up to expectations. It lacked the excitement, spectacle, and star power that fans have come to expect from the NFL’s biggest event of the year. His refusal to bring out Lil Wayne, combined with an overplayed setlist and lackluster stage presence, made for a disappointing show.
While Kendrick Lamar will always be respected as a hip-hop artist and lyricist, the Super Bowl stage requires more than just talent—it requires showmanship. And on this night, Lamar simply didn’t bring it.
