
Super Bowl 2025: Kendrick Lamar makes a strong statement, old-school sneakers, and an open clash with Drake
Super Bowl LIX , which took place on February 9th at Caesars Superdrome in New Orleans , wasn't just an American football championship game. This year, the real show was elsewhere: at center stage, Kendrick Lamar delivered a performance that was as powerful as it was politically charged. By revisiting his classic hits while settling scores with Drake , the Compton rapper delivered one of the most memorable halftime shows in recent years.
"Not Like Us": A clash at the heart of the show
Since the release of " Not Like Us " in May 2024 , the tone has been set. The tension between Kendrick and Drake has reached historic proportions, fueling all the debates in the music industry.
On stage, Kendrick delivers his hit songs with controlled intensity - " DNA .", " Euphoria ", " Luther " (accompanied by SZA ) - until the moment everyone was waiting for: the performance of " Not Like Us ".
The execution is surgical. On the giant screen: a red cross on an owl, a direct nod to Drake 's OVO logo. A few lyrics have been slightly altered, but the intention is clear: the Super Bowl becomes an arena, and Kendrick is pulling no punches. A moment of calculated tension that transforms the show into a true cultural statement.
Nike Air DT Max '96, Martine Rose jacket and $68,000 brooch: every detail counts

While Kendrick carefully crafts his punchlines, he also carefully curates his look. And this year, every piece of his outfit told a story.
On his feet? Nike Air DT Max '96s , a cult classic from the '90s associated with American football legend Deion Sanders . A direct link between hip-hop and the NFL , this retro pair perfectly embodies the world Lamar represents.
He also wears a Marine Rose varsity jacket in black leather, marked with oversized lettering inspired by his song " Gloria " released in 2024. Between luxury sportswear and stage uniform, Kendrick perfectly masters the codes.
And to top it all off: a diamond brooch estimated at $68,000 , discreetly placed on her hat. A meticulously chosen detail, straddling the line between minimalism and opulence. Nothing is left to chance.
SZA and Jalen Hurts, the other fashion highlights of the evening

SZA , who came to share the stage with Kendrick , arrived in a head-to-toe red look: an oversized jacket, lace-up pants, and matching boots. A bold, powerful silhouette, perfectly calibrated for the show.
Jalen Hurts , away from the tunnel, opts for a more understated style. Prada suit, black turtleneck, vintage Cartier sunglasses. Then, once on the court: a pair of Air Jordan 1 PE "Unbannable" cleats. A nod to the shoes banned by the NBA in the 80s, and to Jordan 's rebellious legacy.
When the Super Bowl becomes a cultural stage
This year, the halftime show exceeded expectations. Kendrick Lamar delivered much more than a concert: a visual and sonic manifesto, blending stage performance, audience clash, and meticulous sartorial mastery.
By drawing on the history of hip-hop, American football, and the tensions within the industry, he transformed the Super Bowl into a cultural moment. And above all, he imposed his own narrative – authentic, committed, unforgettable. An edition that will remain etched in memory far beyond the field.







