By Gráinne Glynn
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime performance was more than just a musical performance, it was a provoking commentary on American society, politics, and racial inequality. Through a series of carefully created symbols and references, Lamar transformed the stage into a place for critique, resistance, and empowerment. From the imagery of the American flag to the presence of Uncle Sam, every element of the performance held a deeper meaning, challenging viewers to look beyond the surface and confront the rapidly visible reality of modern America.
The Great American Game: A Play on Power and Control
The performance opened with a powerful statement: “This is the great American game”, delivered by Samuel L. Jackson as Uncle Sam. This line has a double meaning, referencing both the football game unfolding on the field and the broader “game” being played by the American government against its people. According to Wired, the performance spaces were shaped like buttons on a PlayStation controller, further emphasising the idea that average Americans, particularly marginalised communities, are mere pawns in the capitalist game. The stage itself became a metaphor for the systemic control and manipulation faced by those who often can’t defend themselves.
Uncle Sam: The Traditional Embodiment of American Values
Uncle Sam, portrayed by Jackson, represents the stereotypical performer and is in stark contrast to Lamar’s revolutionary persona. As a personification of American media and traditional values, Uncle Sam frequently interrupted the performance, pushing a narrative of conformity with remarks like, “That’s what America wants! Nice and calm.” This character served as a critique of the media’s role in perpetuating a censored and easy-to-digest version of American identity, one that often silences the voices of those who challenge the status quo. Lamar’s refusal to conform to these expectations was a bold statement in itself, as he embraced his identity and message unapologetically.
The Revolution Will Be Televised
Lamar’s declaration, “The revolution is about to be televised,” was a powerful moment, particularly given the political context of the event. President Donald Trump, whom Lamar has openly criticized, was in attendance, marking the first time a sitting president had attended a Super Bowl. This line, coupled with Lamar’s assertion that “you picked the right time, but the wrong guy,” highlighted his resistance in the face of political power. The presence of Trump, alongside the controversial support he has received from athletes like Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes, made Lamar’s performance all the more courageous. It was a reminder that art and activism are inseparable, especially in moments of heightened political tension.
The American Flag: A Nation Divided
One of the most striking visuals of the performance was Lamar standing in the center of an American flag, symbolising the deep polarisation and racial divides within the country. The flag, often a symbol of unity, was instead used to highlight the fractures in American society. Later in the performance, every dancer collapsed to the ground except for the “inner circle” surrounding Lamar, a poignant representation of resilience and solidarity in the face of systemic oppression. This imagery reinforced the idea that while the nation may be divided, there is still strength in community and resistance.
“Too Loud, Too Reckless, Too Ghetto”
The criticism that Lamar’s performance was “too loud, too reckless, too ghetto” echoed the sentiments of MAGA leaders and others who have historically dismissed Black art and culture as unrefined or inappropriate. By embracing these critiques, Lamar turned them into a thing of honor, reclaiming the narrative and celebrating the unapologetic expression of Black identity. This moment was a direct challenge to those who seek to silence or marginalise Black voices, asserting that Black culture is not only valid but essential to the fabric of America.
Red, White, and Blue: A Nod to Patriotism and Protest
Throughout the performance, Lamar, SZA, and the dancers were adorned in red, white, and blue, a deliberate nod to American patriotism. However, this was not a blind celebration of the nation but rather a reclamation of its symbols. Lamar used these colors to assert that Black Americans are integral to the American story, even as they continue to fight for equality and justice. The performance was a reminder that patriotism and protest are not mutually exclusive, that one can love their country while demanding it do better.
“40 Acres and a Mule”: A Call for More Than Tokenism
The line “40 acres and a mule, this is bigger than the music” was a direct reference to the broken promises made to Black Americans after slavery. Lamar used this moment to critique the notion that marginalised communities should be satisfied with the bare minimum. It was a call for true reparations and systemic change, challenging the audience to think beyond superficial gestures.
Serena Williams and the Crip Walk: Reclaiming Black Culture
The inclusion of Serena Williams, a Compton native, and Drake’s ex, added another layer of symbolism to the performance. Her execution of the Crip Walk, a dance rooted in Black culture, was a powerful moment of reclamation. This move, which had previously resulted in her getting fined and heavy backlash after she performed it at Wimbledon, was celebrated on the Super Bowl stage, highlighting the double standards often applied to Black expression. Williams’ presence also served as a subtle nod to Drake, further intertwining personal and political narratives.
“Game Over”: The End of the Show, But Not the Message
The performance finished with the words “Game Over,” signaling the end of the show but also serving as a metaphor for the end of complacency. Lamar’s halftime show was a call to action, urging viewers to recognise the games being played in society and to resist being mere players in a system designed to oppress. It was a reminder that the fight for justice and equality is far from over, and that art has the power to ignite change.
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show wasn’t just a performance, it was a statement. Through bold symbolism and sharp commentary, Lamar turned the biggest stage in sports into a platform to challenge the status quo, celebrate Black culture, and demand a reckoning with America’s past and present. When the show ended with “Game Over,” it wasn’t just about wrapping up a set. It was a call to action, a reminder that we don’t have to keep playing by the same old rules.