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The Super Bowl Halftime Show is one of the biggest stages in entertainment, and this year, Kendrick Lamar took center stage in what was expected to be a powerful, high-energy performance. However, according to social media and critics alike, the overall reaction to his show was disappointing and lackluster.
MANCHESTER, TENNESSEE – JUNE 16: Kendrick Lamar performs in concert during Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival on June 16, 2023 in Manchester, Tennessee. (Photo by Gary Miller/WireImage)
Fans, who were hyped for a stadium-shaking hip-hop moment, were left feeling underwhelmed, as Kendrick delivered a set that lacked energy and spectacle—something that has come to be expected from the NFL’s halftime extravaganza.
Samuel L. Jackson Narrates the Show – But Did It Work?
The narration for the show was handled by Samuel L. Jackson, who satirically teased Lamar for being “too loud, too reckless, too ghetto” while dressed as Uncle Sam. The concept was meant to add a layer of social commentary—a theme that Kendrick has masterfully executed in the past.
But while the introduction was bold and thought-provoking, many viewers felt like it didn’t translate into an exciting performance. Some felt the narration was too drawn out, and by the time Kendrick finally hit the stage, the momentum was already lost.
The Setlist – Great Songs, Weak Execution
Kendrick’s performance included hits like:
“Squabble Up” “HUMBLE.” “DNA.” “Euphoria” “Not Like Us”But despite the powerful tracklist, his stage presence felt off, and the execution wasn’t as electrifying as fans had hoped.
His energy seemed muted, and while Kendrick is known for his lyricism and message, the Super Bowl stage demands a level of showmanship that just wasn’t there.
SZA Joins the Show – But She Lip-Synced?
The biggest moment of the night was when SZA joined Kendrick on stage, adding star power to the performance. But even that fell flat when fans quickly noticed that SZA was lip-syncing her way through the set.
Social media immediately reacted:
“How are you going to bring out SZA and she’s not even singing live?” “Kendrick’s halftime show was already mid, but SZA lip-syncing just made it worse.” “Why even do a Super Bowl performance if you’re not going to give 100%?”Did Kendrick’s “Not Like Us” Moment Backfire?
The one moment that could have saved the performance was Kendrick performing “Not Like Us”, his viral diss track against Drake.
But even that didn’t hit as hard as expected. Some fans felt like the moment had already passed, and what once felt like a cultural movement now seemed stale on such a mainstream stage.
And to make matters worse—Drake’s camp had already threatened to sue if Kendrick performed the song at the Super Bowl.
According to Media Take Out, sources at the highest levels of Drake’s team had warned that there would be legal action if Kendrick included “Not Like Us” in his setlist.
While it’s unclear if anything will come of this, Kendrick went ahead with the performance anyway—but the question remains: Was it worth it?
Fans React: “We’ve Been Spoiled by Past Performers”
The overwhelming consensus online is that Kendrick’s halftime show just didn’t live up to expectations, especially when compared to past Super Bowl performances.
Recent halftime performers like:
Usher (2024) Rihanna (2023) Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and 50 Cent (2022) The Weeknd (2021) Shakira and Jennifer Lopez (2020) Beyoncé (2013 & 2016) Bruno Mars (2014 & 2016)…have set the bar incredibly high—and many felt like Kendrick simply didn’t match that level of showmanship.
While some defended his artistic vision, others were blunt in their criticism:
“Kendrick’s halftime show wasn’t BAD, but it wasn’t MEMORABLE either.” “This was the Super Bowl, not an NPR Tiny Desk concert.” “We’ve been spoiled by performers who actually know how to put on a SHOW.”Was This a Missed Opportunity?
Kendrick Lamar is one of the greatest rappers of this generation, and his music has had a massive impact on hip-hop culture.
But when it comes to the Super Bowl Halftime Show, fans expect big moments, stunning visuals, and an electrifying presence—and unfortunately, Kendrick’s performance just didn’t hit those marks.
Perhaps a different concept, a better stage setup, or more energy from Kendrick himself could have changed the outcome.
Either way, one thing is clear—this was not the Super Bowl Halftime Show people were expecting.
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