Kendrick Lamar is ready to take the stage at the Super Bowl this year and he’s had one heck of a year to rally people up. The Compton-born rap icon will headline the Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, taking on the biggest stage in American entertainment. His announcement came via a short but powerful video, where he stated, “My name is Kendrick Lamar, and I will be performing at Super Bowl 59. Will you be pulling up? I hope so. You know it’s only one opportunity to win a championship, no round twos.” This final line is widely interpreted as a jab at his longtime rival, Drake. He references their ongoing rap beef that dominated the hip-hop scene throughout the past year.
On January 23, 2025, it was revealed that SZA would be joining Kendrick for this monumental performance. Moreover, at the Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Press Conference recently, Kendrick spoke about his approach to the show. He stated, “I’ve always been very open about storytelling through my catalog and my history of music. I like to always carry on that sense of making people listen, but also see and think a little.”
Furthermore, Kendrick has a wide catalog of critically acclaimed hits and a high-energy performances. And everyone is eager to see which tracks he will bring to the Super Bowl stage. Below, we break down the likely songs to make the cut. Moreover, we blended past Super Bowl performances with his latest anthems.
Our Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl Halftime Setlist Prediction
- “HUMBLE.” – One of Kendrick’s most recognizable hits, “HUMBLE.” was a standout from DAMN., and he previously performed it at the Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show in 2022. The song’s hard-hitting beat and lyrics make it a perfect opener to energize a stadium crowd. Thus, we think this song is likely to make the cut.
- “DNA.” – Also from DAMN., “DNA.” showcases Kendrick’s flow and lyrical genius. Given its high-energy production, this track would seamlessly transition into a hype-filled segment of the show. Moreover, it’s just a great track and one of Kendrick’s best songs.
- “Alright” – A defining anthem of his career, “Alright” from To Pimp a Butterfly is a must-have in his setlist. The song’s uplifting message and cultural significance make it a staple in any Kendrick Lamar performance. Also, a great Super Bowl song.
- “Swimming Pools (Drank)” – A classic from good kid, m.A.A.d city, this slower-paced yet infectious hit is definitely fan favorite. There’s potential here for a stadium sing-along moment.
- “Not Like Us” – Perhaps the most anticipated song of the night, “Not Like Us” became a viral sensation in 2024 as Kendrick’s response to his feud with Drake. The Super Bowl will be the perfect platform for Lamar to cement his dominance with this diss track. Which fans would love to see played multiple times in an epic victory lap. It’s highly likely this song will play.
- “King Kunta” – Another To Pimp a Butterfly classic, “King Kunta” embodies Black excellence. It would add a vibrant, danceable energy to the set.
- “TV Off,” “Peekaboo,” and “Squabble Up” – However, while these newer tracks haven’t been performed on a major stage yet, Kendrick’s recent releases have generated significant buzz. And it wouldn’t be surprising to see him mix in fresh material from GNX. These were fan-favorites from the album, too.
- “Luther” ft. SZA – With SZA officially joining the performance, their collaboration “Luther” is likely to make the setlist. The song’s smooth, melodic elements paired with Kendrick’s lyrics would add unique dynamic to the show. This would give both artists a powerful moment on stage.
Moreover, with Kendrick’s stage presence and SZA’s angelic vocals expected to complement the set, the Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show is shaping up to be one for the history books. Whether he performs his diss track on repeat or just performs his many undeniable hits, he can’t go wrong. Kendrick Lamar is ready to seize this moment like a true champion.
