Music fans are in for a treat as Kendrick Lamar, the Pulitzer Prize-winning hip-hop artist, is set to headline the Super Bowl 2025 halftime show on Sunday, February 9. The event will take place at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, marking another milestone in the illustrious career of one of the most influential artists of our time.
In a statement released after the announcement, Lamar expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity. “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,” he declared. Known for his powerful lyrics and electrifying stage presence, Lamar promises to deliver a performance to remember on music’s biggest stage.
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Legacy
This will not be Lamar’s first appearance on the Super Bowl stage. He previously co-headlined the Super Bowl LVI halftime show alongside Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, 50 Cent, and Mary J. Blige in 2022. That iconic performance earned the group a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), setting a high bar for this year’s show.
Since then, Lamar has continued to dominate the charts. His latest album, GNX, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s album chart, marking his fifth consecutive chart-topping release. Critics have praised the album, with outlets like Complex naming it Album of the Year and other publications placing it in their top 10 lists.
Special Guest Appearances
Joining Lamar on stage will be SZA, the Grammy-winning R&B artist. The duo has a history of successful collaborations, including the double-platinum hit “All the Stars” and recent tracks like “Luther” and “Gloria.” Their chemistry and individual star power make them a dynamic pairing for the halftime show.
While SZA is confirmed, fans are buzzing with speculation about additional guest performers. Lamar’s teaser video announcing the halftime show hinted at surprises, leaving room for speculation about potential appearances from other collaborators.
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Pregame Performers
The pregame festivities will also showcase an impressive lineup of talent. Jon Batiste, the multi-award-winning artist and former musical director for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, will perform the national anthem. Batiste’s remarkable achievements include an Academy Award for his work on Pixar’s Soul and a Grammy for Album of the Year in 2022.
“America the Beautiful” will be performed by Trombone Shorty, a New Orleans native and Grammy winner, alongside Lauren Daigle, a Christian music superstar known for her chart-topping albums and two Grammy wins. Their collaboration is expected to bring a soulful and inspiring rendition of the classic song.
Ledisi, another Grammy-winning artist, will perform the Black national anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” With a career that includes portraying Mahalia Jackson in two films, Ledisi’s performance is sure to be a heartfelt and powerful tribute.
Inclusivity on Display
The Super Bowl 2025 halftime and pregame shows will also feature American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, ensuring accessibility for all fans. Stephanie Nogueras, Matt Maxey, and Otis Jones IV will deliver ASL renditions of the performances. Maxey, known for his dynamic interpretations, will accompany Lamar’s halftime show, adding another layer of artistry to the spectacle.
When and Where to Watch
The Super Bowl, including the highly anticipated halftime show, will be broadcast live on Fox and streamed on FuboTV. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. PST, with the halftime show expected to begin around 5 p.m. The halftime performance will last approximately 12 to 14 minutes, packed with unforgettable moments.
The Road to Super Bowl 2025
As the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs prepare to face off, the Super Bowl 2025 is shaping up to be an unmissable event. While fans eagerly anticipate the game, the star-studded musical lineup ensures that the halftime show will be a highlight of the evening.
From Kendrick Lamar’s genre-defining artistry to the heartfelt performances of Jon Batiste, Trombone Shorty, Lauren Daigle, and Ledisi, the Super Bowl 2025 promises to celebrate music, culture, and inclusivity on a global stage.
So mark your calendars for February 9 and prepare for an unforgettable evening of football, music, and unity. The countdown to the Apple Music Super Bowl 2025 halftime show has begun!
