Grammy-winning rap superstar Kendrick Lamar is set to command the Super Bowl LVIII halftime stage this Sunday, promising a performance that will bring hip-hop back to the forefront of the NFL’s championship game, The Associated Press reports.
Fresh off a triumphant night at the Grammys, where he snagged both “Song of the Year” and “Record of the Year” for his explosive diss track “Not Like Us,” anticipation is building for what Lamar will deliver.
Viewers can expect SZA to join Lamar on stage, but the full scope of the performance remains largely under wraps. Fans are hoping for more clues from Lamar himself during a pre-game interview with Apple Music’s Ebro Darden and Nadeska Alexis, scheduled for 10 a.m. Central time on Thursday. The interview, to be broadcast across Apple Music’s platform and social media channels like YouTube and Facebook, will also feature other pre-game performers.
This isn’t Lamar’s first Super Bowl experience. He previously graced the stage in 2022 as a guest artist alongside hip-hop legends Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, and Eminem. This year, he’s taking the reins as the headliner, raising expectations for a show that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
While the pre-game media session may offer glimpses into Lamar’s plans, history suggests he’ll be holding back some surprises. Rihanna, for example, famously used her 2023 Super Bowl performance to reveal her second pregnancy.
Super Bowl LVIII, featuring a championship rematch between the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, will be held this Sunday at the Caesars Superdome.
The Super Bowl festivities will kick off with a distinct Louisiana flavor, highlighting local talent. Jon Batiste will perform the national anthem, while Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle are slated to sing “America the Beautiful.” Ledisi will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing” as part of the pre-game festivities.
The national anthem and “America the Beautiful” will be performed in American sign language by actor Stephanie Nogueras. Otis Jones IV will sign “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” and Matt Maxey will provide sign language interpretation for the highly anticipated halftime show.
