Kendrick Lamar, the LA rapper and reigning star of hip hop, is set to headline the Super Bowl LIX halftime show on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. After an incredible year that included a successful feud with Drake, a record-breaking album, and eight BET Hip Hop Awards, Lamar’s performance promises to be one of the highlights of the event. However, fans might be surprised to learn that despite his immense success, Kendrick Lamar will not be paid for his Super Bowl halftime performance.
The NFL’s Payment Policy for Halftime Shows
Kendrick Lamar will not be receiving a paycheck for his performance at Super Bowl LIX, as per the NFL’s long-standing policy of not paying artists for halftime shows. However, the league will cover certain expenses and production costs, including staging, lighting, and other logistical requirements. This arrangement is standard for all Super Bowl performers, although some artists have reportedly gone the extra mile by funding portions of their performances themselves. For example, in 2021, The Weeknd spent a reported $7 million on his set, and Dr. Dre followed suit in 2022 with a similar investment.
Despite the lack of a direct payment, performing at the Super Bowl halftime show can be highly lucrative in indirect ways. Last year, Usher’s halftime performance helped boost his Spotify streams by 550%, and it is likely that Kendrick Lamar’s set will have a similar impact. With his track “Not Like Us” already surpassing a billion streams on Spotify, a performance at the Super Bowl will likely result in even higher streaming numbers, bringing further attention to his work.
Kendrick Lamar’s History at the Super Bowl
While this is Lamar’s first time headlining the Super Bowl halftime show, fans may remember his appearance during Dr. Dre’s legendary 2022 halftime show. Alongside Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and 50 Cent, Kendrick Lamar helped create one of the most memorable Super Bowl performances in recent history. The 2022 halftime show was hailed by many as one of the best ever, and Lamar’s involvement in this year’s performance is highly anticipated.
The Bigger Picture: Cultural Impact and Opportunities
Despite the lack of direct payment for Super Bowl performances, the exposure and cultural significance of performing at the halftime show are undeniable. Kendrick Lamar’s presence on such a massive stage not only elevates his career but also offers a platform for his music to reach millions of new listeners worldwide. For artists like Lamar, the Super Bowl halftime show represents a rare opportunity to connect with a global audience in a powerful and unforgettable way.
How to Watch Super Bowl LIX in the UK
Super Bowl LIX will take place on Sunday, February 9, 2025, with the Kansas City Chiefs facing off against the Philadelphia Eagles. Kick-off is scheduled for 11:30 PM UK time, with coverage beginning at 10:00 PM. Fans in the UK can watch the game live on ITV1 or ITVX for free, or on Sky Sports NFL and Sky Sports Main Event for Sky customers.
As the NFL continues to make its halftime shows one of the biggest events in entertainment, Kendrick Lamar’s performance is sure to be an unforgettable cultural moment that will be talked about for years to come.
