By: Ms Jheri Worldwide
Staff Writer
`Over 133.5 million viewers tuned in to the Super Bowl Halftime Show this year, witnessing a stirring performance by Pulitzer Prize and Grammy Award-winning rapper Kendrick Lamar. Hailing from Compton, California, Lamar proved to be the perfect artist for this moment in American history. His performance, a powerful blend of artistry and social commentary, resonated deeply while shouting out enduring influences like Gil Scott-Heron “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised” and the failed American promise of 40 Acres and a Mule.
Kendrick made a choice to challenge the audience to think, which many football viewers and Americans are not simply not in the space to do. While some may have missed the significance of Lamar’s presentation, their opinions ultimately pale in comparison to the sheer impact of his moment of artistic interpretation. This was a Black artist unapologetically showcasing his political views on the world’s biggest stage. The “Uncle Sam” character, portrayed by actor and activist Samuel L. Jackson, served as a powerful symbol, elevating the conversation around social consciousness—racially, economically, and mentally. Have you ever seen a Black Uncle Sam? Uncle Sam codedly stated, “You’re being to ghetto, too rebellious, don’t you know how to play the game?” He praised Kendrick for staying in line when he sang slow songs luther and Black Panter’s hit All the Stars, to soothe the people then “deducted one life” when Kendrick rapped with his boys on the corner during Man at the Garden, which many believe alludes to the perpetual violence against Black men in America.
`The varied reactions to the performance emphasized its relevance to the current state of the nation. Lamar’s purpose was not to soothe the masses but to ignite a dialogue, an effort in which he excelled. For many, myself included, Lamar’s performance was a powerful, electrifying, motivating experience. It wasn’t designed to be universally palatable; instead, it prioritized authenticity over comfort simulating the American game by the stage layout of a playstation controller alluding to the game in which we are all trapped.
`The production itself was a masterclass, featuring appearances by SZA, DJ Mustard, tennis star Serena Williams, and a crew of incredibly talented all Black dancers. Beyond the spectacle, Lamar’s message remained clear and unwavering. He directly addressed systemic racism and economic disparities, refusing to shy away from uncomfortable truths. He displayed the division of America through the formation of his dancers as a Black man made American flag, this symbolism will reverberate through photos for generations to come.
`A critique of America at the SuperBowl was timely and impactful. This performance arrived at a time when DEI policies are being rolled back and efforts to level the professional playing field are being dismantled. In this context, Lamar’s unapologetic stance felt particularly vital. His Super Bowl appearance wasn’t just a concert; it was a cultural moment, a reminder of the power of art to challenge, provoke, and inspire. Turn your TV off, game over!
