Kendrick Lamar to Headline Super Bowl 2025 Half-Time Show
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Rapper Set to Deliver a Show-Stopping Performance at the 2025 Super Bowl in New Orleans
Grammy and Pulitzer Prize-Winning Rapper Set to Take Center Stage in New Orleans
Kendrick Lamar, one of the most influential and innovative artists in hip-hop, has been announced as the headliner for the 2025 Super Bowl half-time show, set to take place on February 9 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The announcement was made jointly by the National Football League (NFL) and Apple Music on Sunday, marking Lamar’s second appearance at the iconic event—but his first as the main act.
Lamar, who previously performed alongside Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Mary J. Blige during the 2022 Super Bowl, expressed excitement about headlining this year’s show. “Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date. And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one,” said Lamar in a statement.
A Historic Performer with a Legendary Career
At 37 years old, the Compton-born rapper has consistently redefined the boundaries of hip-hop. He made history in 2018 as the first hip-hop artist to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music for his critically acclaimed album DAMN., and has since continued to shape the genre with his inventive lyricism and cultural impact.
“Kendrick has proven his unique ability to craft moments that resonate, redefine, and ultimately shake the very foundation of hip-hop,” said Seth Dudowsky, NFL’s Head of Music, in a statement.
Past Super Bowl Success and New Ventures
Lamar’s previous Super Bowl appearance in 2022 with a lineup of legendary artists was an unforgettable performance, earning an Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live). However, this will be his first time stepping into the spotlight as the solo headliner for one of the most anticipated music events of the year.
The Super Bowl half-time show has seen iconic performances from artists like Rihanna, Usher, Beyoncé, the Rolling Stones, and Bruce Springsteen, with Lamar set to continue this legacy of musical excellence. Known for his powerful stage presence and thought-provoking performances, Lamar’s show is expected to captivate millions of viewers across the globe.
A Year of Feuds and Hits
Lamar’s performance comes after a highly publicized feud with fellow rapper Drake earlier this year, which saw both artists release a series of diss tracks. Two tracks featuring Lamar—Future and Metro Boomin’s “Like That” and Lamar’s own “Not Like Us”—became major hits, reaffirming his dominant presence in the rap scene.
With the Super Bowl being the biggest sports event in the United States, attracting tens of millions of viewers domestically and being broadcast globally, Lamar’s performance is poised to be a monumental moment not only for his career but for the music world.
As the countdown to February 9 begins, fans are eager to see what the Pulitzer Prize-winning artist will bring to one of the most coveted stages in music. Lamar’s talent for creating cultural moments ensures this will be a performance for the ages.
