When Kendrick Lamar took the stage at the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, he delivered more than just a performance; he crafted a narrative that resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. By focusing on recent tracks and diss tracks, Lamar transformed the event into a platform for cultural critique and artistic expression. His setlist, heavy on spite and defiance, showcased his evolution as an artist and solidified his status as a cultural icon.

A Performance That Redefined the Power of Music

The Stage Set for Confrontation

The anticipation was palpable as Kendrick Lamar prepared to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. Traditionally, artists use this massive platform to showcase their greatest hits, but Lamar chose a different path. He leaned into his most recent work, particularly songs from his album "GNX," which had been released amidst a public feud with Drake. The decision to focus on newer material was both bold and strategic, setting the tone for a performance that would challenge expectations.Lamar’s setlist was peppered with tracks that reflected a shift in his artistry—from early party anthems like “Swimming Pools (Drank)” to songs that delved into themes of power, conflict, and cultural identity. This transition was evident in tracks like “Squabble Up,” where he rapped about navigating friends and foes, and “Man at the Garden,” which questioned notions of greatness and entitlement. Each song served as a commentary on the current state of hip-hop and the broader cultural landscape.

A Visual Feast of Symbolism

Beyond the music, Lamar’s performance was a visual spectacle that layered meaning upon meaning. Flanked by Samuel L. Jackson delivering spoken-word interludes as “Uncle Sam,” Lamar created a tableau that critiqued American ideals and the exploitation of Black culture. Dancers clad in monochromatic outfits mimicked the colors of the American flag, drawing attention to the labor of enslaved people who built this nation. These visual elements added depth to Lamar’s performance, transforming it into a powerful statement on history and identity.One of the most striking moments came during “Not Like Us,” when Lamar recruited Serena Williams to crip-walk during the chorus. The image of Williams, a symbol of Black excellence, dancing in defiance became an instant meme and a potent symbol of resistance. Fans couldn’t help but draw parallels between Lamar’s lyrics and the broader cultural context, making the performance even more impactful.

A Cultural Shift in the Making

Lamar’s Super Bowl performance was not just a victory lap; it was a declaration of intent. By focusing on spite and defiance, he tapped into a sentiment that resonated deeply with audiences. In a time when standing up for what’s right feels increasingly urgent, Lamar’s embrace of malice as a motivator struck a chord. Fans praised his audacity, with one fan writing, “Kendrick Lamar is proof that having an arch nemesis is a fundamental part of the human experience.”The response to Lamar’s performance was overwhelmingly positive, with few complaints about the lack of old hits. Lamar didn’t earn his place on the Super Bowl stage by resting on his laurels; he did so by pushing boundaries and challenging norms. Much like Beyoncé’s dedication to her latest album during her Christmas Day halftime show, Lamar proved that nostalgia isn’t necessary to showcase greatness.

More Than Just Music

Lamar’s performance was a cultural moment that transcended the confines of a musical act. It was a celebration of unyielding malice and a reflection on the role of spite in driving change. As researchers have argued, spite can be a powerful motivator, especially when sustained over time. In times of social and political tension, Lamar’s performance offered a new perspective on resistance—one that embraced defiance and unapologetic self-expression.The symbolism of performing in front of President Donald Trump added another layer to the performance. Trump’s presence underscored the political climate in which Lamar’s message was delivered, highlighting the intersection of art and activism. As Lamar himself said, “40 acres and a mule, this is bigger than the music.” His performance was a reminder that influence cannot be faked, and that true power lies in authenticity and conviction.In a world where hope and solidarity are often seen as the only paths forward, Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show offered a different perspective. Spite, defiance, and unyielding malice can also be forces for change. And if that’s the case, long live Kendrick Lamar, the king of the haters.