Kendrick Lamar’s Triumphant Halftime Performance and the Drake Feud

Introduction: A Cultural Phenomenon at the Super Bowl

The Super Bowl is not just a platform for football; it’s a cultural spectacle that often transcends sports. This year, Kendrick Lamar, the Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper, used the halftime stage to cement his legacy and address one of the most talked-about feuds in hip-hop—his rift with Drake. Lamar’s performance was a masterclass in artistry, subtlety, and shade, leaving fans and critics alike buzzing. While the Kansas City Chiefs were stopped by the Philadelphia Eagles from making history with a three-peat, Lamar’s victory lap on stage seemed to declare him the clear winner in the eyes of many hip-hop enthusiasts. The question on everyone’s mind was: Would Lamar perform his controversial diss track, “Not Like Us,” and how would he handle the escalating feud with Drake?

The Feud with Drake: A Battle of Egos and Lyrics

The feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has been a topic of discussion for months, with both artists trading subtle jabs and direct diss tracks. Lamar’s song “Not Like Us” became the anthem of 2024, with sharp lyrics aimed at Drake. In the song, Lamar raps, “Certified Lover Boy? Certified pedophiles,” and later adds, “Tryna strike a chord and it’s probably A Minor.” These lines not only sparked a heated debate but also led to legal action. Drake denied the allegations and filed a defamation lawsuit against his record label, UMG Recordings, Inc., accusing them of promoting the song. Lamar, however, was not named in the lawsuit, and UMG has since defended itself, stating that it does not engage in defamation and will protect its artists and reputation. The lawsuit has added another layer of intrigue to the feud, with many wondering how Lamar would address it during his performance.

A Halftime Performance Full of Shade and Symbolism

Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance was a testament to his artistry and his ability to use his platform to make statements. The first clue about his approach to the feud came when he appeared on stage wearing a large “A” pendant, a subtle nod to the lyrics in “Not Like Us.” He also broke the fourth wall, telling the audience, “I want to perform their favorite song, but you know they love to sue.” This line was a clear reference to the ongoing legal battle and Drake’s sensitivity to criticism. Near the end of his set, Lamar primed the audience for “Not Like Us,” saying, “40 acres and a mule, this is bigger than the music. They tried to rig the game, but you can’t fake influence.” These words were a powerful statement about the authenticity of his art and the futility of Drake’s attempts to silence him. When Lamar rapped, “Say Drake, I hear you like ‘em young,” the audience finished the line for him, chanting “A minor,” a clear nod to the controversial lyrics.

Serena Williams: A Symbol of Loyalty and Shade

One of the most surprising moments of Lamar’s performance came when he name-dropped Serena Williams. As he rapped, “Better not speak on Serena,” the camera panned to the tennis superstar, who was Crip walking—a dance with roots in Compton, Lamar’s hometown. Williams, who has been linked to Drake in the past, seemed to throw subtle shade at her ex. The moment was symbolic on multiple levels, as Williams has a history of using dance as a form of expression and defiance. In 2012, she faced backlash for Crip walking during her Olympic victory celebration, with critics accusing her of glorifying gang violence. Williams has always maintained that it was “just a dance,” and her appearance during Lamar’s performance seemed to solidify her alliance with him. After the show, she joked on social media, “Man, I did not Crip walk like that at Wimbledon. Ooh, I would’ve been fined.”

The Aftermath: A Victory for Lamar and a Loss for Drake

The consensus after the Super Bowl was clear: Kendrick Lamar had won the night. His performance was not only a celebration of his music but also a victory lap in his feud with Drake. While Drake has denied the allegations made in “Not Like Us” and is pursuing legal action, Lamar’s ability to address the situation with humor and subtlety has only strengthened his position. The lawsuit against UMG has also raised questions about the limits of artistic expression and the role of record labels in protecting their artists. Meanwhile, Lamar’s performance has been praised for its creativity and boldness, with many calling it one of the best Super Bowl halftime shows in recent memory. The feud may not be over yet, but Lamar has certainly taken the upper hand.

Conclusion: The Power of Music and the Legacy of a Feud

Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance was more than just a concert; it was a cultural moment that highlighted the power of music to address personal and societal issues. The feud with Drake has been a defining narrative in hip-hop this year, with both artists using their platforms to assert their dominance. While the legal battle between Drake and UMG is ongoing, Lamar’s ability to address the situation with wit and artistry has solidified his reputation as one of the most thoughtful and provocative artists of our time. The moment with Serena Williams added another layer of complexity to the narrative, showcasing the ways in which personal relationships and public feuds can intersect in unexpected ways. As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar’s performance at the Super Bowl will be remembered as a defining moment in hip-hop history, and the feud with Drake will continue to shape the cultural conversation for years to come.