Apple Music & NFL release new Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl trailer
Kendrick Lamar’s upcoming Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show has fans buzzing. After the NFL and Apple Music teased Lamar’s performance with a commercial that featured the instrumental from his diss track “Not Like Us,” the speculation is running wild. Will the rapper use his massive stage to fire back at Drake? Or will he take a more subdued approach and leave the beef out of his performance? With the show just around the corner, fans and analysts alike are eager to figure out what Lamar’s set will look like.
The Super Bowl 2025 Halftime Show: Kendrick Lamar & SZA
In case you missed the announcement, Kendrick Lamar will headline the Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, which will take place on February 11, 2025. The rapper is no stranger to big moments. From his Grammy-winning albums to his memorable performance at the 2016 BET Awards, Lamar has built a reputation for delivering powerful, high-energy sets.
What’s got fans especially excited this time around is his collaboration with SZA. The two will not only share the stage for the Halftime Show but are also going on tour together in 2025. Their upcoming “Grand National Tour” is generating plenty of hype, especially after the success of their recent album GNX. SZA has been a key feature in Lamar’s music, including tracks like “luther” and “gloria.” Her involvement in the Super Bowl commercial, where she tosses a bucket of Gatorade on Lamar, only heightens the anticipation.
But the question on everyone’s mind is whether Lamar will perform “Not Like Us,” the track that’s caused a stir since its release.
“Not Like Us” — The Drake Diss Track That Started It All
The drama between Kendrick Lamar and Drake dates back to 2024, when Lamar released his scorching diss track, “Not Like Us,” in response to Drake’s release of The Heart Pt. 6. The song quickly became a viral sensation, reaching diamond status according to the RIAA. In “Not Like Us,” Lamar takes aim at Drake with sharp critiques about his relationship with younger women, his role in hip-hop, and even his influence on Atlanta’s rap scene. Lamar’s lyrics ignited an all-out lyrical war, with fans eagerly waiting to see how Drake would respond.
Drake did not stay silent for long. He referenced Lamar’s diss on several occasions, including a notable livestream with popular streamer Adin Ross. Whether or not the two rappers are on the verge of escalating their feud remains to be seen, but the fact that Kendrick is performing at such a high-profile event adds another layer of intrigue.
NFL and Apple Music Tease the Drama
The NFL’s promotional material has only added fuel to the fire. During the NFC Championship Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Commanders, a commercial aired featuring Kendrick Lamar alongside the instrumental of “Not Like Us.” This was the moment that sparked widespread speculation. Could Lamar be setting the stage for a dramatic performance of the diss track?
While some fans believe the NFL is simply using the instrumental to build hype around Lamar’s Halftime Show, others think it’s a clear signal that Lamar will make a statement with his performance. If he does perform the diss track, it would be a major moment in the history of Super Bowl Halftime Shows. A rap beef playing out live on one of the world’s biggest stages? It’s the kind of thing that could make headlines for weeks.
New Kendrick Lamar ‘Not Like Us’ Super Bowl Ad.
— Kendrick Lamar Updates (@KendrickChart) January 26, 2025
Will Lamar Perform the Diss Track?
So, will Kendrick Lamar perform “Not Like Us” during his Super Bowl set? It’s a complicated question. Lamar is known for being strategic and thoughtful with his public persona. While it’s tempting to think he might drop the diss track, it’s also possible he’ll opt to leave the feud offstage in favor of showcasing his artistry and collaboration with SZA.
One thing is for sure: Kendrick Lamar is a performer who always brings something unique to the table. His Super Bowl performance will likely feature a mix of his greatest hits, along with perhaps a few surprises. Lamar has always made a point to address social issues, his personal struggles, and his place in the music industry through his music. This Super Bowl performance could easily reflect that deeper artistry, while still acknowledging the tensions that have been brewing with Drake.
There’s also the possibility that Lamar could reference the feud without actually performing the diss track. Fans should remember that he’s an artist who knows how to turn a moment into something larger than the song itself. It wouldn’t be surprising if Lamar used the performance as an opportunity to showcase his growth, while still nodding to the ongoing rivalry.
Why the Drake Feud Matters
The ongoing tension between Kendrick Lamar and Drake goes beyond the music. Both rappers have carved out their respective places in the hip-hop world, but they’ve often been compared to each other. In 2018, they had a brief back-and-forth over various lyrics, and now, with Lamar’s “Not Like Us” and Drake’s The Heart Pt. 6, their rivalry is once again in the spotlight.
But beyond the personal drama, the feud speaks to larger issues within hip-hop: competition, respect, and the balance of power in a genre that’s always been defined by who’s on top. Lamar and Drake are two of the biggest names in the game, and when they go head-to-head, the entire industry takes notice. Whether or not the feud plays out at the Super Bowl, it will certainly shape how fans and critics view both artists moving forward.
What Kendrick Lamar Fans Can Expect
Regardless of whether Lamar performs “Not Like Us,” fans can still expect a memorable Halftime Show. His catalog is deep, ranging from the introspective lyricism of good kid, m.A.A.d city to the politically charged anthems of DAMN. and To Pimp a Butterfly. The collaboration with SZA is sure to add another layer to the performance, especially since they’ve already worked together on GNX. Whether it’s a dramatic rendition of “HUMBLE.” or a more reflective performance of “LOVE.” or “Alright,” Kendrick is known for his ability to turn every moment into something unforgettable.
SZA’s Role in the Halftime Show
SZA’s role in the Super Bowl performance is key to setting the tone for the show. Since their work together on GNX, fans have seen the chemistry between Lamar and SZA grow stronger. The two have also created an undeniable buzz around their upcoming Grand National Tour, which begins in April 2025. Her addition to the Super Bowl Halftime Show makes sense, considering the duo’s success in recent years.
Expect their live chemistry to shine onstage, and it wouldn’t be surprising if SZA’s presence leads to a surprise performance of “luther” or “gloria.” These tracks have already gained traction with fans, and their smooth integration into Lamar’s set could make for an epic moment.
The Bigger Picture: Kendrick’s Legacy
As the Super Bowl approaches, it’s clear that Kendrick Lamar’s legacy in hip-hop is cemented. Whether or not “Not Like Us” makes an appearance, this Halftime Show is a reflection of Lamar’s status as one of the genre’s greatest lyricists and performers. His ability to blend storytelling, social commentary, and raw talent has earned him a spot among the all-time greats.
At the end of the day, the Super Bowl Halftime Show is an opportunity for Lamar to showcase his artistry on a global scale. Whether it’s a diss track aimed at Drake or an anthem for unity, fans will be watching closely to see what Kendrick Lamar delivers on one of the world’s biggest stages.
The Anticipation Builds
As the date of Super Bowl LIX nears, the anticipation around Kendrick Lamar’s performance continues to build. The possibility of him performing “Not Like Us” adds an element of drama and intrigue, but there are plenty of other moments that could make this Halftime Show unforgettable. Whether Lamar takes shots at Drake or focuses on his broader musical legacy, one thing is certain: this performance will be one for the history books.
Stay tuned, because whatever Kendrick Lamar has planned, it’s sure to be a moment worth watching.
