Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime performance was far more than an energetic showcase—it was a masterfully orchestrated protest disguised as entertainment. While many expected him to perform his biggest hits, Lamar deliberately chose not to, resisting the system’s desire to box him into a commercialized narrative. Instead, he delivered a multi-layered statement on race, power, media control, and the exploitation of Black artists.
With striking visuals, powerful collaborations, and layered symbolism, Lamar’s performance challenged America to confront uncomfortable truths. While some dismissed it as “boring” or “trash,” the depth of its message was undeniable—this was one of the most significant acts of protest in Super Bowl history.
Samuel L. Jackson as Uncle Sam: A Message on Control and Suppression
One of the most striking elements of the performance was Samuel L. Jackson’s role as Uncle Sam. Dressed in a modernized red, white, and blue suit, Jackson delivered lines that exposed the hypocrisy and control embedded in American systems.
Each of his lines was carefully chosen to highlight the struggles Black artists & individuals face in a system designed to exploit and silence them:
- “No, no, no, Lamar, too loud, too reckless, and too ghetto.”
- “Do you understand how to really play the game?”
- “Scorekeeper, deduct one life.”
- “That’s what America wants—nice and calm. You’re almost there, don’t mess this up.”
Jackson’s portrayal of Uncle Sam was not just about government control; it was a broader critique of how media, corporations, and record labels manipulate Black talented individuals for profit while silencing their true voices.
A Stage Designed to Expose the System
The stage itself carried significant symbolism. Designed to resemble a prison yard and a PlayStation-like gaming interface, it represented the idea that the entertainment industry functions as a controlled system, keeping individuals trapped while profiting from their struggles.
The red, white, and blue uniforms worn by the dancers symbolized the American flag, reinforcing the message that America was built on the labor and suffering of Black people—yet they are still controlled, manipulated, and expected to perform for the very system that oppresses them.
The Squid Game-inspired elements drove the message home, highlighting how the media and music industry pit Black artists against each other for profit, much like how Squid Game depicted the wealthy exploiting the poor for entertainment.
SZA, Serena Williams, and the Drake Connection
Lamar’s decision to bring out SZA and Serena Williams was anything but random—it was a direct response to Drake, who has been accused of disrespecting Black women, including both SZA and Serena in the past.
- SZA’s Role – By featuring SZA without overly sexualizing her, Lamar reinforced the need to respect and protect Black women in the industry. Her presence contrasted with how the industry often exploits female artists, reducing them to mere objects rather than recognizing their talent and artistry.
- Serena Williams’ Crip Walk -Serena’s appearance, particularly her Crip Walk during “Not Like Us,” was a powerful statement. The Crip Walk, a dance originating from West Coast gang culture, has historically been associated with Black resistance and pride. This was also a direct shot at Drake, who once dated Williams and was accused of disrespecting her. By having Serena proudly perform this dance during a song widely considered an anti-Drake anthem, Lamar sent a clear message: Black culture will not be controlled or disrespected.
The audience’s “A MINOR!” chant during “Not Like Us” was another clear moment of protest. The phrase, which has become a viral response to Drake’s alleged misconduct, was shouted loudly by the crowd, reinforcing Lamar’s message that the system and its representatives will be held accountable.
The American Flag: A Nation Divided
One of the most visually powerful moments of the performance was the American flag constructed from Black people. This symbolized the undeniable truth that America was literally built on the backs of Black individuals—through slavery, forced labor, and systemic oppression.
Yet, as the performance progressed, the flag appeared fractured, symbolizing a nation divided by race, class, and power struggles.
The Protest Incident: A Moment of Unfiltered Truth
During the performance, a protester breached the stage holding flags representing Sudan and Gaza. While security swiftly removed them, the moment was unmissable.
Rather than disrupting the show, this act reinforced Lamar’s message—that America’s entertainment industry often tries to distract from real global crises, yet the truth always finds a way to break through.
Game Over: The System is Crumbling
As the show reached its climax, the stage powered down like a video game shutting off. This wasn’t just a dramatic ending—it was a statement.
- The game is rigged.
- The entertainment industry is a trap.
- The system has controlled the narrative for too long.
- But revolution is coming.
Why This Was More Than a Halftime Show
Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX performance was not just a concert—it was a message to America. Through every song choice, visual element, and guest appearance, he painted a picture of:
- How the entertainment industry manipulates Black talent.
- How America thrives on exploiting Black culture while keeping its creators under control.
- How Black voices are often silenced unless they conform to the system.
This was the biggest protest disguised as a halftime show in history. For those who missed the message, it only proved Lamar’s point: many are too distracted by entertainment to see the truth.
At Indie Spark, we don’t just cover entertainment—we uncover the truth behind it. Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performance wasn’t just a moment in pop culture; it was a defining statement in the ongoing struggle for artistic and cultural freedom.
