Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 8, 2024 5:10 pm GMT
Kendrick Lamar has officially been announced as the headliner for the 2025 Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, set to take place on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. The joint announcement was made by Roc Nation, the NFL, and Apple Music.
The game will be broadcast on Fox, and Lamar’s performance will mark a significant return to the halftime stage. The acclaimed rapper previously appeared at the Super Bowl LVI halftime show in 2022, joining a star-studded lineup that included Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and 50 Cent. That performance earned the production an Emmy award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), a notable accolade in his illustrious career.
Creative Direction and Background
For this upcoming show, creative direction will be spearheaded by pgLang, the innovative media company co-founded by Lamar and filmmaker Dave Free. Free has played a vital role in shaping Lamar’s visual and artistic identity, having directed or co-directed most of Lamar’s music videos.
In a statement regarding his return, Lamar expressed his intent to make a profound statement about the genre, emphasizing, “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.” This reflects not only his confidence but also his deep-rooted connection to hip-hop culture.
Industry Support and Recognition
Jay-Z, the founder of Roc Nation, praised Lamar as a “once-in-a-generation artist” whose influence on music and culture is unparalleled. This reflects the high expectations and excitement surrounding his upcoming performance. Jay-Z also highlights how Lamar’s work transcends music, attributing lasting impact to his artistry.
Key figures from the NFL also reaffirmed Lamar’s significant role in modern music. Seth Dudowsky, the NFL’s Head of Music, stated that few artists have shaped and influenced hip-hop as Lamar has, displaying a unique ability to create resonant moments. The enthusiasm from both Roc Nation and the NFL indicates strong support for Lamar’s upcoming showcase.
A Legacy of Awards and Achievements
Kendrick Lamar’s accolades speak volumes about his influence on the music industry. Since his major-label debut with “good kid, m.A.A.d city” in 2012, Lamar has garnered 17 Grammy Awards and made history as the first non-classical and non-jazz artist to win the Pulitzer Prize for music for his groundbreaking album “DAMN.” in 2017. Additionally, he received an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song for “All the Stars” from the “Black Panther” soundtrack.
The past year has also seen Lamar achieving commercial success, including dominating the Billboard charts with songs like “Not Like Us” and “Like That,” which he collaborated on with Future and Metro Boomin.
Apple Music’s Role in the Halftime Show
In an effort to enhance the viewing experience, Apple Music has committed to delivering high-quality audio and exclusive content around the Super Bowl Halftime Show. Oliver Schusser, Apple’s Vice President of Music, expressed excitement about bringing Lamar’s performance to a global audience, highlighting the show as a celebration of exceptional musical talent.
With a focus on providing exclusive videos, interviews, and playlists, Apple Music aims to deliver a comprehensive experience that complements the live performance. The anticipation surrounding the halftime show builds upon the success of previous performances, including Rihanna’s acclaimed show in 2023 and Usher’s record-breaking performance in 2024.
Looking Ahead to Super Bowl LIX
The Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show will not only celebrate the artistry of Kendrick Lamar but will also continue the tradition of high-profile performances that resonate with fans worldwide. Having a leading artist like Lamar ensures that the event will be a focal point of entertainment during the Super Bowl festivities.
The production will be jointly executed by DPS, with Roc Nation and Jesse Collins serving as executive producers, and Hamish Hamilton handling the direction. This team has a history of delivering unforgettable performances and is set to bring that expertise to Lamar’s show.
The countdown to February 9, 2025, has begun! Fans and music lovers are excited and can’t wait for what will be another amazing Super Bowl moment.
