When Kendrick Lamar took center stage for the Super Bowl LVIII halftime show in February 2025, his performance immediately became a talking point for fans and critics alike. Known for his multifaceted artistry and ability to weave complex narratives into his music, Lamar’s halftime performance was no different. It was a masterclass in symbolism, political commentary, and musicality, with hidden messages woven into nearly every aspect of the show.
A Powerful Opening: The Buick GNX
One of the most striking elements of Kendrick Lamar’s performance was the appearance of a black Buick Grand National Experimental (GNX) car, which served as the focal point of the entire show. Positioned on stage as Lamar emerged to perform, the GNX was not just a cool prop—it was a highly symbolic choice. The car itself is a rare, vintage model that has long been associated with strength, durability, and authenticity—values Lamar has consistently championed in his career.
The GNX’s inclusion was a powerful reminder of Lamar’s dedication to maintaining his authenticity despite the overwhelming pressures of fame. Hip-hop, more than any other genre, often faces criticism for “selling out” once artists achieve commercial success, and Lamar’s consistent commitment to his roots has been one of the defining features of his career. By making the GNX the centerpiece of his performance, Lamar subtly reminded the audience of the importance of staying true to oneself, no matter how much the world around you changes.
The GNX also resonated with Lamar’s own narrative of growth within the genre. His evolution from the street-conscious narratives of “good kid, m.A.A.d city” to the introspective and political themes explored in “DAMN.” and “To Pimp a Butterfly” was encapsulated in this symbol of power, elegance, and timelessness. He wasn’t just performing for the masses—he was making a statement about legacy, authenticity, and the importance of remaining grounded.
Serena Williams and the “Crip Walk”: Subverting Expectations
Lamar’s halftime show also included surprise guest: tennis legend Serena Williams. Known for her competitive drive and powerful presence on and off the court, Williams made a bold statement during the performance by executing a “crip walk,” a dance move associated with gang culture in Los Angeles. The move was a nod to her own history, specifically her 2012 Summer Olympics victory, where she was criticized for celebrating her gold medal in a similar manner.
Williams’ cameo was more than just a fun surprise; it was a statement about defying expectations. In the world of professional sports, especially tennis, where athletes are often expected to conform to a certain image of professionalism, Williams has always stood out for her unapologetic expression of self. By joining Lamar on stage and executing a dance associated with rebellion and self-expression, Williams contributed to the performance’s broader themes of identity, defiance, and the breaking of societal norms.
Moreover, the appearance of Williams is also linked to Lamar’s ongoing connection to sports culture. While many of Lamar’s lyrics address systemic issues within American society, including race and class, his music has always intersected with the worlds of athletics and street culture. By bringing Williams into the fold, Lamar expanded the scope of his performance, intertwining various forms of cultural rebellion into a unified message.
The Protest and Political Commentary
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show also made headlines for a controversial moment when a protester interrupted the performance by waving a Palestinian flag. The incident, which briefly disrupted the broadcast, served as a powerful reminder of the show’s broader political context. While some criticized the interruption, others saw it as a fitting moment of resistance—a reflection of Lamar’s commitment to using his platform to raise awareness about global issues.
Lamar has never shied away from discussing political themes in his music. Tracks like “Alright” have become anthems for social justice movements, and his albums often tackle issues such as police brutality, systemic racism, and inequality. By allowing this moment of protest to occur, Lamar underscored his dedication to using his voice for political activism, even in the most commercialized of spaces. It was a bold statement, acknowledging that the Super Bowl, while a celebration of American culture, is also a stage where the world’s most pressing issues can and should be discussed.
Samuel L. Jackson as Uncle Sam: A Satirical Twist
Another noteworthy element of the halftime show was the appearance of actor Samuel L. Jackson, who took on the role of Uncle Sam during a brief interlude. Uncle Sam, of course, is a well-known symbol of American patriotism, but Jackson’s portrayal was more ironic than celebratory. Wearing the iconic red, white, and blue suit, Jackson delivered a biting commentary on American identity, calling out the contradictions inherent in the nation’s ideals and the stark realities faced by marginalized communities.
This inclusion was a masterstroke, playing into the satirical edge that Lamar has become known for in his music. While Uncle Sam traditionally represents the ideal of American unity and power, Jackson’s delivery was anything but idealistic. His presence served to highlight the often uncomfortable truths about the United States, such as its history of systemic racism and inequality. This layer of critique was especially potent given the Super Bowl’s status as one of the most significant cultural events in the country, reinforcing the notion that Lamar’s performance was far from just entertainment—it was an opportunity for reflection and discourse.
Musical Evolution and Collaborations
Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show was also a showcase of his musical versatility. The performance included songs from his 2024 album “GNX,” a record that blends R&B influences with Lamar’s signature rap style. This was a departure from his earlier work, which often relied heavily on sample-based production and the traditional sounds of hip-hop. “GNX” saw Lamar experimenting with live instrumentation and more complex musical arrangements, and his Super Bowl performance provided an opportunity to highlight this new musical direction.
Throughout the show, Lamar was joined by several high-profile collaborators, including DJ Mustard, who served as the musical director, and SZA, who performed a breathtaking rendition of their hit song “Luther.” These collaborations not only showcased Lamar’s wide-ranging influence within the music industry but also contributed to the performance’s rich cultural texture. The inclusion of SZA, who represents a newer generation of artists, added a fresh perspective to the performance while also acknowledging Lamar’s place as a bridge between different eras of music.
Overall : A Complex, Layered Performance
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LVIII halftime show was far more than just a musical performance. It was a statement—a carefully curated moment in which Lamar used his platform to comment on everything from personal identity and authenticity to global politics and social justice. The symbolism, the cameos, the protester, and the biting political commentary all combined to create an unforgettable spectacle that was equal parts art and activism.
For a generation of fans who have come to expect more from their artists, Kendrick Lamar’s performance at the Super Bowl was a reflection of his artistry and his commitment to social change. It was a powerful reminder that even in the most commercialized of spaces, there is room for complexity, nuance, and resistance. And in the world of hip-hop, where authenticity often reigns supreme, Kendrick Lamar has once again proven that he is one of the genre’s most influential and visionary artists.
