The Super Bowl is not just about football; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings together sports, music, and entertainment on one of the world’s largest stages.
Super Bowl LIX, set to take place on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, promises to deliver an unforgettable experience with a star-studded lineup of performers.
Here’s everything you need to know about the musical acts gracing this year’s event.
Halftime Show: Kendrick Lamar and SZA
Kendrick Lamar: The Headliner
Kendrick Lamar, one of the most celebrated rappers of his generation, will headline the 2025 Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show. This marks Lamar’s second Super Bowl appearance but his first as a solo headliner.
Known for his lyrical depth, storytelling prowess, and electrifying stage presence, Lamar has won 22 Grammy Awards and became the first non-classical artist to win a Pulitzer Prize for Music with his 2017 album DAMN.
Lamar’s selection reflects his immense cultural influence and ability to connect with diverse audiences. His recent hits like “Not Like Us” and “Like That” have dominated charts, solidifying his status as a global icon.
Fans can expect a high-energy performance featuring his most popular tracks, including “HUMBLE.,” “DNA.,” and collaborations with SZA like “All the Stars” from the Black Panther soundtrack.
SZA: The Special Guest
Joining Lamar on stage is Grammy-winning R&B artist SZA. Known for her soulful voice and introspective lyrics, SZA has collaborated with Lamar on several occasions, making her an ideal addition to the halftime show.
Her critically acclaimed albums Ctrl and SOS have cemented her as one of R&B’s leading voices. Fans are eagerly anticipating a live rendition of their hit track “All the Stars” during the performance.
Pregame Performances: A Tribute to New Orleans
The pregame entertainment will pay homage to New Orleans’ rich musical heritage with performances by Louisiana natives:
- Jon Batiste: The multi-instrumentalist and Academy Award-winning artist will perform the national anthem. A New Orleans native and former bandleader for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Batiste is known for blending jazz, funk, and soul into his music.
- Trombone Shorty: Born Troy Andrews, this jazz and funk musician will perform “America the Beautiful” alongside Lauren Daigle. Trombone Shorty is a local legend who has been performing since childhood and is celebrated for his genre-defying sound.
- Lauren Daigle: A Grammy-winning contemporary Christian singer from Lafayette, Louisiana, Daigle brings her powerful voice to “America the Beautiful.” Her chart-topping hits like “You Say” have resonated across genres.
- Ledisi: The Grammy-winning R&B vocalist will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black National Anthem. With her commanding stage presence and vocal prowess, Ledisi adds a soulful touch to this historic piece.
Why These Artists Were Chosen
The NFL’s decision to feature these performers highlights both global appeal and local roots:
- Kendrick Lamar was chosen for his unparalleled ability to blend artistry with social commentary, making him a fitting representative of hip-hop’s enduring cultural impact. Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, which partners with the NFL on halftime shows, described Lamar as a “once-in-a-generation artist” whose work transcends music.
- SZA complements Lamar’s style with her emotive performances and widespread popularity in contemporary R&B.
- The pregame lineup emphasizes New Orleans’ vibrant music scene, showcasing artists who represent the city’s unique blend of jazz, funk, gospel, and soul. This choice celebrates the host city while uniting fans through music.
Performance Times
- Kickoff: The game begins at 6:30 PM ET.
- Pregame Performances: These will occur shortly before kickoff.
- Halftime Show: Expected around 8:00–8:30 PM ET (depending on game flow). The halftime performance will last approximately 12–15 minutes.
What to Expect
Halftime Show Highlights
Lamar has teased that storytelling will be central to his performance. Fans can expect visually stunning production elements combined with thought-provoking themes that reflect his musical journey. While specific setlists remain under wraps, tracks like “Not Like Us,” “HUMBLE.,” and collaborations with SZA are likely inclusions.
Pregame Atmosphere
The pregame performances aim to set an uplifting tone by celebrating New Orleans’ musical legacy. From Jon Batiste’s soulful rendition of the national anthem to Trombone Shorty’s energetic brass sounds, these acts promise to captivate viewers even before kickoff.
Super Bowl LIX is shaping up to be not just a thrilling football matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles but also a celebration of music that bridges cultures and generations.
With Kendrick Lamar headlining the halftime show alongside SZA and a pregame lineup steeped in New Orleans’ rich musical traditions, this year’s Super Bowl promises an unforgettable experience for fans worldwide.
FAQs
1. Who is headlining the Super Bowl 2025 Halftime Show?
Kendrick Lamar, the Grammy-winning rapper and Pulitzer Prize recipient, is headlining the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show.
2. Will there be any special guests during the halftime show?
SZA, a Grammy-winning R&B artist and frequent collaborator with Kendrick Lamar, will join him for the performance. Surprise guests may also make appearances, though none have been officially announced yet.
3. What songs are expected to be performed during the halftime show?
While the setlist remains under wraps, fans anticipate hits like “Not Like Us,” “HUMBLE.,” and collaborations with SZA such as “All the Stars”.
4. Who is singing the national anthem at Super Bowl 2025?
Jon Batiste, a Grammy-winning musician and New Orleans native, will perform “The Star-Spangled Banner”.
5. Who will perform “America the Beautiful”?
Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle, both Louisiana natives, will deliver a rendition of “America the Beautiful” before kickoff.
6. Who will sing “Lift Every Voice and Sing”?
Ledisi, an acclaimed R&B and jazz vocalist, will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black National Anthem.
7. Why were these performers chosen for Super Bowl 2025?
The NFL aimed to celebrate New Orleans’ rich musical heritage with local artists like Jon Batiste, Trombone Shorty, Lauren Daigle, and Ledisi. Kendrick Lamar and SZA were selected for their global appeal and cultural relevance.
8. What time does the halftime show start?
The halftime show is expected to begin around 8:00 PM ET, depending on the pace of the game.
9. How can I watch the Super Bowl 2025 performances?
The game and performances will air on Fox and can also be streamed on platforms like FuboTV, Tubi, and NFL+.
10. Has Kendrick Lamar performed at a Super Bowl before?
Yes, Kendrick Lamar previously performed in 2022 during Dr. Dre’s halftime show alongside Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and others.
