American rapper and lyricist Kendrick Lamar is set to headline the 2025 Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show. Picture: Gonzales Photo/Kasper Maansson
Kendrick Lamar has been announced as the headline artist for the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show.
The “Not Like Us” rapper, 37, intends to "remind the world why" rap music is so "impactful" when he performs at the sporting spectacle at The Caesars Super dome in New Orleans, Louisiana, on February 9, 2025.
He said in a statement: “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."
Hip-hop legend Jay-Z, who produces the show through his Roc Nation agency, said: “Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer. 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."
Oliver Schusser, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Music, Apple TV+, Sports, and Beats, commented: “The Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show is a celebration of the music we love and the incredible artists who make it, all on the world’s biggest stage.
“Apple is thrilled to bring this show, starring the absolutely incomparable Kendrick Lamar, to fans worldwide with Apple Music’s industry leading Spatial Audio quality along with tons of exclusive videos, interviews, playlists and so much more across Apple Music."
Seth Dudowsky, Head of Music at the NFL, added: “Few artists have impacted music and culture as profoundly as Kendrick Lamar. Time and time again, Kendrick has proven his unique ability to craft moments that resonate, redefine, and ultimately shake the very foundation of hip-hop.
“We’re excited to collaborate with Kendrick, Roc Nation, and Apple Music to deliver another unforgettable Halftime Show.”
It won’t be Kendrick’s first time playing the Super Bowl after he joined Eminem, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Mary J. Blige at the 2022 event.
The last two years have seen Rihanna (2023) and Usher (2024) play the coveted slot.
Bang Showbiz