Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performance last Sunday has made history, setting a new record as the most watched halftime show ever. With an average audience of 133.5 million, Lamar’s star-studded production captivated viewers across the nation, surpassing the previous record of 133.4 million set by the legendary Michael Jackson in 1993.
But did you know that Lamar’s performance actually attracted a higher average viewership than the game itself? According to reports, the Super Bowl itself averaged 127.7 million viewers, peaking at 137.7 million during the thrilling second quarter as the Philadelphia Eagles dominated the Kansas City Chiefs. This remarkable feat showcases the immense popularity of Lamar and the excitement surrounding his highly anticipated performance.
Lamar, 37, brought the house down with an electrifying setlist that included hits like HUMBLE, DNA, and All the Stars. However, it was his rendition of the diss track "Not Like Us" that truly stole the spotlight. This track, rumored to be aimed at his rival Drake, has generated significant buzz, even leading to legal action from the Canadian artist. The lyrics, which include pointed jabs and controversial lines, sparked discussions among fans and critics alike.
In a bold move, Lamar performed the song without the word "pedophile," a term that had previously been included in the lyrics. This decision was likely made to keep the focus on the performance rather than the controversy, demonstrating Lamar’s ability to navigate the complexities of his artistry while still delivering a powerful message.
Star-Studded Collaboration
Lamar’s performance was not just a solo act; he was joined on stage by SZA, with whom he is set to tour this summer. The collaboration added an extra layer of excitement to the show. Additionally, the presence of superstar actor Samuel L. Jackson and tennis legend Serena Williams further elevated the performance, making it a memorable event for fans of all kinds.
The buzz around "Not Like Us" didn’t stop at the Super Bowl. Just a week prior, the track won Song of the Year at the Grammys, solidifying Lamar’s status as one of the top artists in the industry. This is the fifth diss track that Lamar has allegedly directed at Drake, who has consistently denied any claims of misconduct. The ongoing feud between these two hip-hop giants has kept fans on their toes, and it seems that the rivalry is far from over.
The Eagles’ Victory
While Lamar’s performance was a highlight, the Super Bowl itself was a spectacle to remember. The Eagles entered halftime with a commanding 24-0 lead over the Chiefs, ultimately winning the game 40-22. This victory not only avenged their 2023 Super Bowl loss to the Chiefs but also dashed head coach Andy Reid’s hopes of achieving a historic three-peat with quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce.
The Eagles’ triumph was a testament to their skill and determination, further adding to the excitement of the day. Fans were treated to a thrilling matchup that showcased the best of NFL football, and the halftime show only amplified the energy in the stadium.
The Ongoing Drake and Kendrick Feud
The backdrop of Lamar’s Super Bowl performance is his ongoing feud with Drake, which has captivated fans and sparked countless discussions. The timeline of their rivalry is filled with notable moments, including the release of diss tracks and public statements.
- On October 6, 2023, Drake and J. Cole released "First Person Shooter," where J. Cole claimed the trio of himself, Drake, and Kendrick were the "big three" of hip-hop.
- Kendrick responded on March 22, 2024, in a verse on Metro Boomin and Future’s song "Like That," stating, "It’s just big me," and accusing both rappers of sneak dissing.
- The feud escalated with J. Cole’s diss track "7 Minute Drill" on April 5, 2024, where he accused Kendrick of seeking attention and criticized his recent music.
- Just two days later, J. Cole retracted his statement, feeling pressured to respond to the public’s demands for drama.
The rivalry continued to heat up with Drake’s responses, including tracks that poked fun at Kendrick’s height and collaborations with mainstream artists. The tension reached new heights with Kendrick’s release of "Euphoria," a six-minute diss track that questioned Drake’s identity and parenting abilities.
With each new release, the stakes have only grown higher. Fans are left wondering how this feud will evolve, especially with Kendrick’s recent Super Bowl performance adding fuel to the fire.
What’s Next for Kendrick and Drake?
As the dust settles from the Super Bowl, fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next for both Kendrick Lamar and Drake. Will they continue their musical battle, or is there a possibility of collaboration in the future? One thing is for sure: both artists have proven their ability to captivate audiences, whether on the field or through their music.
Kendrick’s historic Super Bowl performance has undoubtedly solidified his place in the annals of NFL history. As we look ahead, the excitement surrounding both the league and its cultural impact continues to grow. Whether it’s through electrifying performances or intense rivalries, the NFL remains a thrilling spectacle, uniting fans in their love for the game and the artists who soundtrack it.
