Multi-platinum artist Kendrick Lamar will take center stage at the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, announced today by Roc Nation, Apple Music, and the NFL. The performance will air live from The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on Sunday, February 9, 2025, and will be broadcast on FOX.
“Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date. And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one,” Lamar said in a statement, signaling his excitement for the upcoming performance.
Lamar, who has garnered 17 Grammy Awards and made history as the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize, is known for his cultural influence and genre-defining work. His critically acclaimed albums such as good kid, m.A.A.d city, DAMN., and most recently, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, have solidified his place as one of the most impactful artists of his generation.
Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, founder of Roc Nation, praised Lamar, stating, “Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer. His deep love for hip-hop and culture informs his artistic vision. He has an unparalleled ability to define and influence culture globally.”
Apple Music Vice President Oliver Schusser echoed the enthusiasm, adding, “Apple is thrilled to bring this show, starring the absolutely incomparable Kendrick Lamar, to fans worldwide with Apple Music’s industry-leading Spatial Audio quality.”
Seth Dudowsky, Head of Music at the NFL, emphasized Lamar’s cultural impact, saying, “Few artists have impacted music and culture as profoundly as Kendrick Lamar. Time and time again, Kendrick has proven his unique ability to craft moments that resonate, redefine, and ultimately shake the very foundation of hip-hop.”
Creative direction for Lamar’s performance will come from his pgLang creative imprint, co-founded by the rapper, with production support from DPS, Roc Nation, and Jesse Collins, while Hamish Hamilton will serve as the director. Roc Nation will also act as the show’s strategic entertainment advisor.
Apple Music’s multi-year partnership with the NFL and Roc Nation has made the halftime show the most-watched musical performance of the year. The 2024 Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show, headlined by Usher, became the most-watched halftime performance of all time, earning three Emmy nominations. Previous shows headlined by Rihanna and Dr. Dre have also garnered critical acclaim, with several Emmy wins.
The highly anticipated performance by Lamar is expected to attract millions of viewers worldwide. Apple Music promises an immersive experience featuring Spatial Audio and exclusive content.
Fans can follow Apple Music’s coverage leading up to the event on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter.
