On this past Super Bowl Sunday, popular American rapper Kendrick Lamar performed along with a surprise appearance from renowned artist SZA.
During the short performance, Lamar performed clips of 11 total songs, with SZA being featured in two of them.
Being well known for his symbolism depicted in performance and lyrics, Lamar’s show started on a stage lit up to look like the symbols on a play station controller. Many have speculated that this was to show that life in America is a game, specifically for people of color. The first songs performed were a snippet of “GNX” and “Squabble Up.” I thought the energy provided by both Lamar and his crew of backup dancers made the beginning of the performance particularly eye-catching and well-done.
To add to the show’s symbolism, actor Samuel L. Jackson played the figure of Uncle Sam, a commonly used personification of the U.S. or its ideals. Jackson made comments on Lamar’s songs throughout the production to depict America’s opinions of his music. An example of this was when Jackson stated Lamar was being, “too loud, too reckless, too…ghetto,” after the singing of “GNX” and “Squabble Up.” Jackson also commented on Lamar’s lack of ability to play the “game”, which is depicted to be the opinions of the American public, which all artists obviously need to be in their favor if they want to be successful.
After Jackson’s comments, the next set of songs included “Humble”, “DNA”, “Euphoria” and “Man at the Garden.” The symbolism depicted in these songs started with the background dancers during the performance of “Humble” forming an American flag. I thought that along with the energy of the song this was well done and fitting to the ongoing theme of Lamar’s performance. The next songs following “Humble” were also performed with great passion and precision. “Man at the Garden” was performed with Lamar standing in front of several of his background dancers behind him, hyping up Lamar as he rapped. Following this, Jackson made another comment, this time taunting Lamar about bringing his “homeboys” and telling an imaginary “scorekeeper” to deduct one of Lamar’s lives, presumably following the video game bit. I believe that the continuation of the American game symbolism worked well with the song and was a creative way of spreading a message regarding the injustice people of color face when striving for success in America.
The next song “Peekaboo” was then performed. Although I thought it was good, I thought it was missing some of the energy and lyrics the other songs had. Lamar goes on to tease the performance of his hit diss track “Not Like Us” which he released in his internet viral diss track battle with artist Drake. Lamar stated that “they love to sue,” showing that his performance of the rap could result in legal issues, and instead of performing it moves on to his guest star.
Hit artist SZA makes her appearance as she and Lamar perform the songs “Luther” and “All the Stars.” These songs were my favorite part of the performance. SZA’s incredible vocals really complimented Lamar’s rapping. “All the Stars”, which was featured in the Marvel movie “Black Panther”, was performed incredibly by both artists and in my opinion was the best song sung that night. Jackson was also pleased with these songs and stated that this is “what America wants.”
This is when the introduction to “Not Like Us” began to play again and Jackson was displeased and stormed away. Despite fear of legal consequences, Lamar performed the hit diss track “Not Like Us,” making sure to smile at the camera when Drake’s name was said. This song was particularly controversial and damaging to Drake’s reputation as it accused him of many misconducts, including his alleged relationships with minors. During this performance, champion tennis player Serena Williams was briefly featured dancing on stage.
The performance comes to a close with the song “TV Off.” The track was incredibly moving, leaving a lasting impression on all watching. Overall, I thought the performance was done well and the use of symbolism, which people are still finding more of and speculating about, was extremely creative while still sending a message about Lamar’s stance on the current political state in America. My favorite part was definitely SZA’s additions which really elevated the whole experience. Super Bowl 59’s halftime show was definitely a hit!
