Millions expected a spectacular Super Bowl LIX halftime show, but Kendrick Lamar’s performance sparked a heated debate instead.
Kendrick Lamar took center stage at Super Bowl LIX’s halftime show on February 9, 2025, delivering a high-energy performance that quickly became a topic of debate among viewers.
A fan comment on Kendrick Lamar’s performance, dated February 10, 2025 | Source: Instagram/espn | Instagram/espnnfl | Instagram/sportscenter
The rapper, known for his intricate lyricism and commanding stage presence, performed some of his biggest hits, including “Humble,” “Squabble Up,” and “Not Like Us,” a track widely recognized as a diss toward fellow rapper Drake.
As a special moment in the performance, Lamar was joined onstage by R&B star SZA. The two artists, who previously collaborated on Lamar’s No. 1 album GNX, performed together, adding another layer of excitement to the show.
The official Apple Music Halftime Show Instagram page celebrated the moment, sharing posts like “IT’S K-D-O-T…” and “@KendrickLamar and @SZA are the moment.” Clips from the performance, including a video of Lamar rapping “Humble,” quickly circulated online.
Despite the star power and bold setlist, the show received mixed reviews from fans. While some appreciated Lamar’s artistry, others were less impressed, with many taking to social media to voice their disappointment.
On Instagram, some viewers criticized the performance. One user wrote,“Might be the worst halftime show of all time.” Another commented,“This halftime show was boring.”
Kendrick Lamar performs with SZA in the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show at Caesars Superdome on February 9, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana | Source: Getty Images
Reddit users also weighed in with similar sentiments. One viewer shared,“I was excited for it, and found this utterly underwhelming.” Another said,“Turned the channel during this.” A third comment read,“In front of the president …”
Over on X (formerly Twitter), reactions varied, but criticism was prevalent. One person wrote,“Kendrick ruined the sb halftime show. Sza too fine to ruin anything.”
Kendrick Lamar performs with SZA in the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show at Caesars Superdome on February 9, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana | Source: Getty Images
Another user commented,“I find Kendrick Lamar cringe. His voice is gimmicky to me. His whole Art [sic] feels cartoonish. Not sure how else to say this. And I don’t think Drake is exceptional by the way.”
“Kendrick Lamar so mid, his voice so annoying [sic],” another viewer posted. One user asked,“Tell me I’m not the only one needing subtitles for this!!” Another added,“Lil Wayne should have been the halftime performer. Kendrick was straight-up mumbling.”
Lil Wayne performs at Sports Illustrated Saturday Night Lights powered by Matthew Gavin Enterprises and Talent Resources Sports on February 2, 2019, in Atlanta, Georgia | Source: Getty Images
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The halftime performance continues to be a hot topic, with fans debating whether Kendrick Lamar’s unique style was fitting for such a massive stage.
