Will Kendrick actually perform “NOT LIKE US” at the Superbowl?
By Ammar Jamal
The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the biggest stages an artist can perform on, with an average run time of around 12 to 15 minutes. Artists must encapsulate their career (to that point) into a high-energy, captivating performance filled with snippets of their most iconic songs. Kendrick Lamar, a master of storytelling and a commanding presence in hip-hop, will have the monumental task of curating a set list that appeals to the Super Bowl’s diverse audience while staying true to his artistry. He is now also tasked with possibly the biggest conundrum. On the heels of an iconic rap battle with Drake does K.Dot stay true to Hip Hop’s competitive nature and add-in one of the most iconic diss records ever created?
This burning question of whether Lamar would dare include “Not Like Us,” the controversial track featuring scathing remarks aimed at Drake. While this song is celebrated for its unfiltered honesty by his core fans and praised for its upbeat tempo and clever lyricism by casual fans alike. It would undoubtedly spark debates about whether it’s appropriate for such a global event. Will Lamar use this platform to make a bold statement, or will he lean on crowd-pleasers to engage the masses?
Must-Have Hits for the Set List
Kendrick Lamar’s catalog boasts several massive hits that are likely shoo-ins for a Super Bowl performance. Among them:
"HUMBLE.": “HUMBLE.” is a certified anthem that would electrify a stadium-sized crowd.
"Alright": More than just a song, “Alright” is a cultural rallying cry.
"DNA.": “I GOT LOYALTY, GOT ROYALTY INSIDE MY D.N.A.” need anything more be said?
Fan Favorites That Would Be a Nice Addition
For Lamar’s die-hard fans, lesser-known tracks like "Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst" or "Mortal Man" would showcase his depth and lyrical prowess. While these songs may not resonate as universally as his radio hits, including brief snippets could be a nod to the fans who have been with him since his Section.80 days.
Another possibility is “Wesley’s Theory,” the genre-bending opener to To Pimp a Butterfly. Its funk-infused sound could provide a dynamic shift in tone, keeping the audience engaged.
Challenges and Possibilities
One of the challenges Lamar will face is deciding which songs to truncate into bite-sized portions, as is customary for Super Bowl performances. In past shows, artists have condensed their songs into mere lines or hooks, often stringing them together in a medley format. The question is how Lamar will approach this limitation. Will he sacrifice lyrical storytelling for broader appeal, or find a way to thread his narrative style into the fast-paced nature of the show?
Will Kendrick Make a Statement?
Given Kendrick Lamar’s history of using his platform for social commentary, it’s almost a given that his performance will carry some weight. Whether through a song choice like “The Blacker the Berry” or a subtle visual cue, fans and critics alike will be watching closely for any messages he might deliver. K.Dot has been using his recent videos to drop easter egg-like nods to how he is feeling about the culture, Hip Hop, his opponents, his neighborhood and entire coast. Expect there to be deeper meaning embedded not only in the music but in his choice in fashions, set design, choreographed dances, and surprise guests.
Ultimately, Lamar’s Super Bowl set list has the potential to be a career-defining moment. Whether he opts for universally beloved hits, deeper cuts, or controversial tracks, his ability to captivate audiences with his artistry ensures it will be a performance to remember. The only question left is: What songs will he choose to make the biggest impression on one of the world’s largest stages? What do you want to see Kendrick perform at the Superbowl?
