The Super Bowl halftime show, a cornerstone of American football culture, is poised for another groundbreaking performance as Kendrick Lamar takes the stage as the first solo rapper to headline the event. The 2025 Super Bowl will air live on FOX, FOX Deportes, and be available for streaming on Tubi, offering fans multiple ways to catch this historic performance. Sponsored by Apple Music, which took over from Pepsi in 2023, the halftime show promises to captivate a vast audience with Lamar's unique storytelling.
The Super Bowl halftime show has grown into the United States’ most-watched musical performance of the year. It began with college marching bands and evolved through decades to include drill teams and performance ensembles. A significant shift occurred in 1991 when New Kids on the Block became the first pop act to headline the show. This change set the stage for numerous high-profile collaborations in subsequent years.
In 2000, a star-studded lineup featuring Phil Collins, Christina Aguilera, Enrique Iglesias, and Toni Braxton graced the halftime show. The following year, rock band Aerosmith teamed up with pop sensations NSYNC, delivering an unforgettable performance. In 2002, U2 replaced Janet Jackson as headliner and performed a poignant tribute to the victims of the 9/11 attacks, further cementing the halftime show’s significance.
The turn of the century saw various acts come together for this celebrated event. Janet Jackson eventually headlined in 2004, her performance sparking controversy due to a "wardrobe malfunction" that remains one of the show’s most infamous moments. Despite such controversies, the halftime show continues to draw impressive lineups and large audiences.
Kendrick Lamar's upcoming performance is set against this rich backdrop of halftime history. Known for his profound storytelling and impactful lyrics, Lamar aims to bring his passion for narrative to the stage.
“Storytelling. I think I’ve always been very open about storytelling through all my catalog and my history of music. And I’ve always had a passion about bringing that on whatever stage I’m on.” – Kendrick Lamar
The direction of this year's show rests in the experienced hands of Hamish Hamilton, who has been directing the Super Bowl halftime show since 2010. Under his guidance, the halftime performances have consistently dazzled audiences with their creativity and scale.
As anticipation builds for Lamar’s performance, fans can expect a memorable show that reflects both his artistic vision and the broader cultural significance of the Super Bowl halftime show. With Apple Music’s sponsorship adding another layer of prestige, the event underscores its status as a pivotal moment in both sports and entertainment.
