JAY-Z recently opened up about his decision to select Kendrick Lamar as the headlining performer for the highly anticipated Apple Music Super Bowl 2025 Halftime Show.
The announcement, made on Sunday (Sept. 8), has sparked much discussion, especially given the location of Super Bowl LIX, set to take place in New Orleans in February 2025.
The Hip-Hop mogul and NFL music strategist released an official statement explaining the rationale behind choosing the 17-time Grammy Award winner for the iconic performance.
“Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer,” JAY-Z said in his statement. “His deep love for Hip-Hop and culture informs his artistic vision. He has an unparalleled ability to define and influence culture globally. Kendrick’s work transcends music, and his impact will be felt for years to come.”
While many were thrilled with the news, others expressed mixed feelings, arguing that another artist, such as Lil Wayne, would have been a more fitting choice.
The New Orleans native has been publicly vying for the opportunity and, given that Super Bowl LIX will take place in his hometown, the decision to bypass him for Lamar left some fans disappointed.
Lil Wayne’s previous performances and his consistent presence in Hip-Hop made many believe that this would be the perfect moment for him to take the stage. His connection to the city further fueled the belief that he should have been included in the festivities. In fact, earlier this year, Lil Wayne admitted that he was “praying” to be selected, although no official call had been made at the time.
“I will not lie to you. I have not got a call or nothing,” Lil Wayne shared at the time. “We praying. We keeping our fingers crossed. I’m working hard. I’mma make sure this next album and everything I do is killer.”
The decision to go with Lamar, who performed at the Super Bowl Halftime Show in 2022 alongside Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Eminem, has drawn attention, particularly from fellow Louisiana native, Master P. The No Limit Records founder shared his thoughts on the choice, echoing the sentiment that Lil Wayne deserved recognition for such a monumental event.
“As Ambassador of Entertainment in the City of New Orleans I have to agree with the fans that Lil Wayne should be a part of this celebration as well,” Master P said. “He’s one of the greatest hip-hop artists alive, still relevant and he’s a New Orleans native. Let’s not miss this cultural moment in the South. Life is too short! We have to give our legends their flowers while they are here.”
1. The Super Bowl is not a homecoming for artists that’s from that city.
2. Lil Wayne is too loyal to Aubrey for him to join Kendrick.
3. The fake outrage is ridiculous.Wrap this topic up by noon pic.twitter.com/PCVle4lccA
— Carl Thomas’ Turtleneck (Real Name’s KJ) (@therealkj4) September 9, 2024
and
This happening purely off a diss song, shows how people really be feeling about Drake. There’s no way on Gods green earth the Super Bowl is in NOLA and Lil Wayne just didn’t get that call idk. https://t.co/BQeXTcPmre
— Eli (@EliAshawnn) September 8, 2024
and
I need yall to be serious for a second . Lil Wayne cannot headline the fuckin Super Bowl lmaoooo he’s a goat but come on he don’t even know the words to his own songs and verses ???? pic.twitter.com/UExfQ2fOtf
— HIS EXCELLENCY (@RAREPALACE) September 8, 2024
and
Listen… I’m not hating on KDot hosting the Super Bowl Halftime show… he’s definitely a big enough artist with enough hits to deserve it.
But NOBODY should be headlining the Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans over Lil Wayne… NO FUCKING BODY ????
— A.J. FRANCI$ ???? (@AJFrancis410) September 8, 2024
and
Cam’ron and Mase reacting to Kendrick Lamar performing at the 2025 Super Bowl instead of Lil Wayne on It What It Is
“It’s egregious and it gotta stop.” pic.twitter.com/oH4pKTZocx
— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod ???????? (@big_business_) September 9, 2024
As the debate continues, JAY-Z stands by his decision to feature Kendrick Lamar, emphasizing the Compton-born rapper’s undeniable influence and unique artistry.
While the mixed reactions persist, the Super Bowl Halftime Show remains one of the most anticipated musical events, and fans can look forward to seeing how the performance unfolds in 2025.
