The anticipation had been building for months—Kendrick Lamar headlining the Super Bowl Halftime Show fresh off his dominant victory over Drake in one of the most talked-about rap battles in history. With the stage finally set, the big question remains: Did Kendrick deliver a performance worthy of the Super Bowl spotlight?
In the latest episode of Bad For The Community, the crew breaks down every aspect of the performance, from the setlist choices to production elements, and debates whether this show cements Kendrick’s place in Halftime Show history.
Opinions were divided. While some praised Kendrick’s artistic direction, others questioned whether the performance reached the level of spectacle expected for an event of this scale. The consensus? It was solid but perhaps not a game-changing moment in Super Bowl history.
One of the most debated aspects of the night was Kendrick’s decision to spotlight newer songs over his most iconic hits. He made a statement by performing Not Like Us, a track loaded with significance given recent events. The stage design—drawing inspiration from PlayStation controllers—added a creative touch, but minor technical issues, including breath control and microphone volume, slightly hampered the experience. Serena Williams’ surprise appearance added a celebrity moment, but did it elevate the show? The crew had differing takes.
While some high-impact production elements, including fireworks and pyrotechnics, were reportedly scrapped due to security concerns, the visual direction still shone. The intricate choreography and dynamic camera work earned praise, making the performance visually compelling even if it lacked some of the explosive moments fans might have expected.
Comparisons to past Super Bowl halftime performances were inevitable. Kendrick’s selection was unique—rather than being a legacy act, he took the stage at the peak of his career. But how will the performance hold up over time? Did his unconventional approach pay off, or will it be remembered as a missed opportunity?The Bad For The Community team agreed that Kendrick’s halftime show was a bold artistic choice that leaned into his signature style rather than playing it safe. But did it fully capture the massive scope of the Super Bowl stage? That remains up for debate.
