JAY-Z has shed light on his decision to select Kendrick Lamar as the headlining performer for the Apple Music Super Bowl 2025 Halftime Show, which was officially announced on Sunday, September 8. As a key NFL music strategist, JAY-Z released a statement emphasizing Lamar’s unmatched artistry and global influence, positioning him as the ideal performer for one of the world’s most-watched events.
“Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer,” JAY-Z said of the 17-time Grammy Award-winning rapper. “His deep love for Hip-Hop and culture informs his artistic vision. He has an unparalleled ability to define and influence culture globally. Kendrick’s work transcends music, and his impact will be felt for years to come.”
Lamar, who has become a prominent figure in modern hip-hop, has often been praised for his thought-provoking lyrics, social commentary, and ability to resonate with listeners worldwide. The upcoming Super Bowl LIX, set to take place in New Orleans, Louisiana, in February 2025, will offer Lamar a stage to once again showcase his artistry following his previous Super Bowl Halftime Show appearance in 2022.
Despite JAY-Z’s glowing endorsement, the decision to feature Lamar has sparked mixed reactions from fans and music insiders. Some argue that Lil Wayne, the New Orleans-born rap legend, would have been a more fitting choice given the location of the event. Wayne has long been a staple of the southern rap scene and expressed his desire to headline the halftime show earlier this year.
“I will not lie to you. I have not got a call or nothing,” Lil Wayne stated. “We praying. We keeping our fingers crossed. I’m working hard. I’mma make sure this next album and everything I do is killer. I wanna just make it hard for them not to holler at the boy.”
Fans and fellow artists, including Louisiana native Master P, voiced their disappointment over Lil Wayne being overlooked. Master P acknowledged Lamar’s talent but believed that Lil Wayne should at least have a role in the event, highlighting the rapper’s importance to New Orleans culture.
“As Ambassador of Entertainment in the City of New Orleans I have to agree with the fans that Lil Wayne should be a part of this celebration as well,” Master P said. “He’s one of the greatest hip-hop artists alive, still relevant, and he’s a New Orleans native. Let’s not miss this cultural moment in the South. Life is too short! We have to give our legends their flowers while they are here.”
The tension surrounding the choice stems from Lil Wayne’s deep-rooted connection to his hometown and his influential role in hip-hop. Many feel that, especially since Super Bowl LIX will be held in New Orleans, Wayne should be recognized on such a grand stage.
Regardless of the public debate, JAY-Z’s decision reflects his vision for bringing thought-provoking and impactful artistry to the Super Bowl Halftime Show. Kendrick Lamar’s cultural significance and ability to captivate global audiences ultimately made him the frontrunner in JAY-Z’s eyes, solidifying his place as one of the most influential performers of his generation. Whether Lil Wayne will have a role in the show remains uncertain, but for now, all eyes are on Kendrick Lamar as he prepares to take center stage at one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
