Kendrick Lamar Makes Super Bowl History—And Takes Another Shot at Drake
Kendrick Lamar just added another milestone to his already legendary career—becoming the first solo rapper to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. Fresh off sweeping the 2025 Grammy Awards, the Compton rap icon took over New Orleans with a theatrical, high-energy performance that made one thing clear: his battle with Drake isn’t just over, it’s game over.
Narrated by Samuel L. Jackson as Black Uncle Sam, the show had everything—hits from Kendrick’s latest album GNX, a double dose of duets with SZA, and yet another jab at Drake. In front of a record-breaking 133.5 million viewers, Kendrick performed "Not Like Us," the now-iconic diss track that shook the industry. While he censored the explosive "certified pedophile" line (probably for legal reasons), he still flashed a knowing grin at the camera—letting the world know exactly who he was talking about.
Hip-Hop’s Super Bowl Takeover
A few years ago, the idea of a rapper headlining the Super Bowl halftime show felt unlikely. For decades, the NFL overlooked hip-hop, relegating rappers to supporting roles for pop and rock stars. But things changed when JAY-Z’s Roc Nation partnered with the league in 2019. Since then, the Super Bowl has seen headliners like The Weeknd, Rihanna, Usher, and Dr. Dre—who brought along hip-hop heavyweights like Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, and Mary J. Blige.
With hip-hop now a dominant force at the Super Bowl, the big question is: who should take the stage next?
The NFL looks for more than just star power. A Super Bowl headliner needs global hits, a killer stage presence, and corporate-friendly appeal (which is why Kanye West probably won’t be getting the call anytime soon). But with hip-hop’s biggest names consistently breaking records, there’s no shortage of worthy candidates.
Here are some rappers who deserve a shot at the world’s biggest stage:
Travis Scott
Love him or hate him, Travis Scott has the music, the energy, and the stage presence to deliver an unforgettable halftime show. With high-octane hits like "Sicko Mode," "Antidote," and "FE!N," plus an unmatched ability to create immersive stage experiences, he’s a perfect fit.
Travis himself wants the gig, telling Billboard, “Hell yeah, man. Tell the [NFL] to hit me up. They know who to call.”
The only hurdle? The tragic Astroworld Festival crowd crush in 2021. But with a record-breaking Utopia tour and a Coachella headlining slot this year, Travis has largely moved past the controversy. Could 2026 be his year?
Drake
Drake would be the most controversial choice, given his ongoing feud with Kendrick Lamar. But there’s no denying his resume—he’s the most-streamed artist ever and holds the record for most No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hits by a rapper.
His setlist would be a hit parade across multiple genres, from rap anthems ("Started From the Bottom," "Jimmy Cooks") to pop smashes ("God’s Plan," "Hotline Bling") to R&B slow jams ("Take Care," "Hold On, We’re Going Home").
The big question: would Drake even want to do it? He has reportedly turned down the Super Bowl twice, and after Kendrick’s historic performance, taking the stage now might feel like playing second fiddle. Plus, his legal battle with Apple Music—one of the halftime show’s main sponsors—could complicate things.
Eminem
Eminem already proved his Super Bowl credentials when he joined Dr. Dre’s halftime show in 2022, where he made headlines by kneeling in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick. But as a solo headliner? It’s a no-brainer.
With stadium anthems like "Lose Yourself," "Till I Collapse," and "The Real Slim Shady," plus a catalog of iconic collaborations, Eminem could easily put on a legendary show. If the Super Bowl ever lands in Detroit, this one seems inevitable.
Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne’s hometown fans were not happy when Kendrick got the Super Bowl gig in New Orleans. Even Nicki Minaj and Birdman voiced their frustration, arguing that Wayne—one of rap’s greatest—deserved the spotlight.
Wayne certainly has the hits for the job ("A Milli," "Lollipop," "6 Foot 7 Foot") and an all-star roster of collaborators to call on. The only concern? His sometimes unpredictable live performances. But if he’s focused, a Lil Wayne halftime show would be a cultural moment.
JAY-Z
This one’s tricky—JAY-Z literally helps pick the Super Bowl performers. But as a living legend with a deep catalog of anthems ("Empire State of Mind," "99 Problems," "Run This Town"), it’s hard to imagine he wouldn’t crush it.
A JAY-Z halftime show could be an all-star affair, with appearances from Beyoncé, Rihanna, Eminem, or even a rare Frank Ocean sighting. But would he step away from the boardroom and hit the stage? That’s the real question.
Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj already made a Super Bowl cameo in 2012 alongside Madonna, but she’s long overdue for her own moment. With a career full of pop smashes and rap bangers, she has everything needed for a halftime show spectacle.
Her recent Pink Friday 2 album was a massive success, and her world tour is breaking records. But Nicki’s vocal criticism of the NFL—especially after Lil Wayne’s Super Bowl snub—could make her a risky choice.
Tyler, The Creator
Tyler, The Creator may not have the mainstream hits of some of the others, but his creativity and stage presence are undeniable. From his elaborate stage designs to his ability to command a crowd, he could deliver a halftime show unlike anything seen before.
Doja Cat
Doja Cat might be the wild card, but her blend of rap, R&B, and pop makes her an intriguing choice. With hits like "Paint the Town Red," "Say So," and "Tia Tamera," plus her viral performance energy, she could bring something fresh to the Super Bowl stage.
The only question: would the NFL take a chance on her edgier, unpredictable persona?
Who’s Next?
With hip-hop now a Super Bowl staple, the stage is wide open for more rap icons to take the spotlight. Whether it’s Travis Scott, Drake, Eminem, or someone else entirely, one thing is clear—the halftime show will never be the same again.
Who do you think should headline next?