The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most-watched musical performances in the world, and this year, Kendrick Lamar ensured it would be unforgettable. In a move that blended artistry, rivalry, and pop culture, Lamar delivered a show-stopping performance of his hit "Not Like Us," subtly trolling his long-time rival Drake, and brought tennis legend Serena Williams on stage as a backup dancer. The performance was a masterclass in storytelling, blending music, sports, and celebrity drama into one unforgettable moment.


The Backstory: Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s Feud

To fully appreciate the significance of Lamar’s performance, we need to rewind to the roots of his rivalry with Drake. The two hip-hop heavyweights have been at odds for years, trading subliminal jabs in their music. While their feud has never escalated into a full-blown public confrontation, it has simmered beneath the surface, with fans dissecting lyrics for hidden meanings.

The tension reached a new high in 2023 when Lamar released "Not Like Us," a track widely interpreted as a diss aimed at Drake. The song’s lyrics, layered with metaphors and sharp critiques, were seen as Lamar’s way of calling out Drake’s authenticity and place in the rap game. While Drake never directly responded, the track became a cultural moment, sparking debates among fans and critics alike.

The Super Bowl Halftime Show: A Stage for Subtle Shade

The Super Bowl halftime show is no stranger to controversy and spectacle, but Lamar’s performance took it to another level. As the lights dimmed and the opening notes of "Not Like Us" echoed through the stadium, the crowd erupted. Lamar, known for his meticulous attention to detail, used the platform to send a message—not just through his lyrics, but through the entire production.

The highlight of the performance came when Serena Williams, dressed in a sleek, all-black outfit, joined Lamar on stage as a backup dancer. Williams, a global icon in her own right, brought an unexpected yet electrifying energy to the show. Her presence was more than just a celebrity cameo; it was a statement. Williams, like Lamar, is a trailblazer who has faced her share of critics and rivals, making her the perfect collaborator for this moment.

Why Serena Williams’ Role Mattered

Serena Williams’ involvement added layers of meaning to the performance. As one of the greatest athletes of all time, Williams has often been compared to Lamar in terms of her dominance and influence in her field. By having her on stage, Lamar was not only amplifying his message but also aligning himself with a figure who embodies resilience and excellence.


Williams’ choreography, though simple, was impactful. Her movements were deliberate, almost defiant, mirroring the tone of "Not Like Us." It was a visual representation of Lamar’s lyrics, emphasizing themes of strength, authenticity, and rising above adversity. The collaboration also highlighted the intersection of sports and music, two realms that often influence and inspire each other.

The Drake Troll: Subtle Yet Effective

While Lamar didn’t mention Drake by name, the choice of "Not Like Us" as the centerpiece of his performance was a clear nod to their ongoing feud. The song’s lyrics, combined with the grandeur of the Super Bowl stage, felt like a mic drop moment. Lamar didn’t need to engage in a direct confrontation; instead, he let the music speak for itself.

The inclusion of Serena Williams added another layer to the trolling. Drake, who has often been linked to Williams in rumors and speculation, found himself indirectly referenced through her presence. It was a clever, almost playful way for Lamar to assert his dominance without resorting to overt hostility.

Fan Reactions and Cultural Impact

Social media exploded immediately after the performance, with fans and celebrities alike weighing in. Memes, tweets, and TikTok videos flooded the internet, dissecting every aspect of the show. Many praised Lamar for his creativity and boldness, while others speculated about how Drake might respond.

The performance also sparked broader conversations about the role of rivalry in hip-hop. Historically, feuds have driven some of the genre’s most iconic moments, from Tupac and Biggie to Jay-Z and Nas. Lamar’s approach, however, felt fresh. By blending artistry, celebrity, and subtle shade, he elevated the concept of a diss track into a cultural event.

Expert Opinions: Why This Performance Worked

Music critics and cultural analysts were quick to highlight the brilliance of Lamar’s performance. Dr. Regina Bradley, a hip-hop scholar, noted, “Kendrick Lamar has always been a master of subtext. What makes this performance so powerful is its ability to communicate so much without saying it outright. It’s a testament to his artistry and understanding of the culture.”

Others pointed to the strategic use of Serena Williams as a key factor in the performance’s success. “Serena is more than just a celebrity; she’s a symbol of excellence and perseverance,” said cultural commentator Michael Eric Dyson. “By bringing her into the fold, Lamar wasn’t just trolling Drake—he was making a statement about what it means to be truly great.”

Conclusion: A Halftime Show for the Ages

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show will go down in history as one of the most memorable performances of all time. By seamlessly blending music, sports, and celebrity drama, he created a moment that transcended entertainment and became a cultural phenomenon. The choice of "Not Like Us," the inclusion of Serena Williams, and the subtle trolling of Drake all contributed to a performance that was as thought-provoking as it was entertaining.

In the end, Lamar’s performance wasn’t just about settling scores or stealing the spotlight. It was a celebration of artistry, resilience, and the power of music to bring people together—even in the midst of rivalry. As fans continue to dissect and discuss the show, one thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar knows how to make a statement, and he did it on the biggest stage in the world.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why did Kendrick Lamar choose to perform "Not Like Us" at the Super Bowl?

Kendrick Lamar’s choice of "Not Like Us" was a strategic and artistic decision. The song is widely interpreted as a diss track aimed at Drake, and performing it on such a massive stage amplified its impact. Lamar used the Super Bowl’s global audience to make a statement about authenticity and his place in the rap game, all while subtly trolling his rival.

2. What was the significance of Serena Williams being a backup dancer?

Serena Williams’ involvement added multiple layers of meaning to the performance. As a global icon and trailblazer in sports, her presence symbolized resilience, excellence, and dominance—qualities that align with Lamar’s message in "Not Like Us." Additionally, her rumored history with Drake added an extra layer of intrigue, making her cameo feel like a playful jab at Lamar’s rival.

3. Did Drake respond to the performance?

As of now, Drake has not publicly responded to Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performance. However, the hip-hop community and fans are eagerly watching to see if he will address the subtle trolling in his music or public statements. Historically, Drake has been known to respond to diss tracks in his own time and style.

4. How did fans and critics react to the performance?

The performance received widespread acclaim from both fans and critics. Social media exploded with memes, tweets, and analyses, with many praising Lamar’s creativity and boldness. Critics highlighted the performance as a masterclass in subtext and storytelling, noting how Lamar used the Super Bowl stage to elevate a diss track into a cultural moment.

5. What does this performance mean for the future of hip-hop rivalries?

Lamar’s performance showcased a new way to approach hip-hop rivalries—through artistry, subtlety, and cultural resonance. Instead of engaging in direct confrontation, he used music, celebrity, and symbolism to make his point. This approach could influence how future feuds are handled in the genre, emphasizing creativity and cultural impact over overt hostility.