The twenty two time Grammy winner and Pulitzer prize winner Kendrick Lamar performed during football’s biggest stage during Super Bowl LIX. Lamar capped off a historic year after winning five grammys for his diss track “Not Like Us” towards five time grammy winner Drake. As well as his latest album release “GNX” which quickly went number one shortly after the release. Lamar performed a mix of new and old hits including “squabble up” and “luther” from his most recent album as well as “Humble” from his 2017 album “DAMN.”
Lamar seemed to have delivered the final blow to the ongoing feud between Drake and himself when he ended his set list by performing “Not Like Us” after building anticipation throughout the performance. Lamar was joined with a star studded line up including Samuel L. Jackson, Serena Williams and producer Mustard. Most notably however was co-star Sza who performed hits such as “luther” and “All the Stars.” However, the underlying themes throughout the performance were most captivating, emphasizing the current state of American society, racial identity, and culture through the use of symbolism.
Lamar’s ongoing feud with Drake has been one for the ages and the halftime performance was filled with subtle nods that aimed to the feud. One of the most striking and bold was his diamond studded “A minor” chain in which was a nod to the musical note and a reference to Drake’s alleged controversies with young women. Another easter egg was the stage’s design. The design was set to resemble a playstation controller. Sony, who manufactures the playstation consoles, also owns” OVO Sounds” who is the record label for Drake. One of the most eye grabbing easter eggs was Serena Williams’ five second cameo who was “crip walking.” Williams, like Lamar, grew up in Compton, California giving a nod to the African American rap culture in the Los Angeles area . Williams herself is not too fond of Drake either, as the two were rumored to have dated years back. Drake has also made subtle jabs to Williams and her husband through song lyrics after Williams denied ever being in a relationship with Drake.
One of the most compelling aspects of the performance was the use of symbolism throughout. The performance included Samuel L. Jackson as Uncle Sam, who is traditionally the personification of the U.S Government, propaganda, patriotism, and authority. Throughout the performance Jackson includes commentary in between songs, the first time the viewers saw this was after “squabble up” Uncle Sam refers to the music as “reckless and too… ghetto.” The statement emphasized the way that mainstream America often marginalized African American culture and rap music. This remark transitions into the song “HUMBLE” where the choreography created an american flag in which it was split, underlining the ongoing political, racial, and societal divide in America.
Lamar then transitions to “Luther” and “All the Stars” where co-star Sza is introduced. During the performance Lamar and Sza wore red and blue costumes representing the political parties (Republican being red and Democrat being blue) as well as giving a nod to Lamar’s culture in California with crips and bloods. Originally separated, the two artists were performing simultaneously in which they eventually came together to meet center stage, emphasizing the final goal of the political system in America, united as one. Jackson, as Uncle Sam, after the dual performance delivered the line “That’s what America wants, nice and calm, you’re almost there, don’t mess this-” which was interrupted by Lamar’s entrance. Jackson further emphasizes the way traditional American mainstreams often seek to mute resistance and traditional African American culture as they seek a more pleasing way to get people’s thoughts.
Lamar’s arrival with the line “It’s a cultural divide, imma get it on the floor, 40 acres and the mule, this is bigger than music” was a way to showcase the refusal of traditional mainstreams. The line “40 acres and a mule” was a reference to the post civil war reparation to formerly enslaved African Americans. Lamar underlines that the racial injustice is still happening and is “bigger than music.” Lamar then states “they tried to rig the game but you can’t fake influence” further emphasizing Lamar’s criticism towards the mainstream that tries to manipulate and suppress traditional Black culture. Lamar finishes the performance with the song “tv off” figuratively telling the audience to turn their tv off and stop being influenced. Lamar framed his performance not only as a musical performance but a cultural and political statement by advocating for change both racially and politically.
Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime performance was a powerful display that helped transform the typical entertainment aspect of a halftime show. Through the layered symbolism throughout the performance, including the divided American flag, Uncle Sam’s interruptions, and costumes, Lamar was able to use his platform in front of millions to raise awareness to the deep political, racial, and societal issues in America. Each element was able to represent America’s complexities leaving the message to have unity and to continue to fight for justice.
