The Super Bowl is one of the most anticipated sporting events in the United States, attracting millions of viewers annually. While many people tune in for the game itself, others see it as an opportunity to socialize, enjoy parties, and watch the highly anticipated halftime show.
The Halftime Show Headliners
This year’s Super Bowl halftime show will be headlined by Kendrick Lamar, one of the most influential rappers of his generation. However, what has really caught the attention of many fans is the addition of R&B star SZA to the lineup. Even people who do not usually watch football have expressed excitement about tuning in just to see her perform.
Fan Excitement for SZA
Fans of SZA have flooded social media with excitement over her participation. Many have admitted that she is the sole reason they will be watching the Super Bowl this year. Comments such as “Only watching the Super Bowl for SZA” and “SZA BOWL! I don’t watch football but I will now!” showcase the enthusiasm surrounding her performance.
One particularly cheeky comment from a fan even suggested that Kendrick Lamar needed SZA to make his performance strong enough for the Super Bowl stage. This highlights the high regard in which SZA is held by her supporters.
SZA’s Recent Success
SZA has been experiencing an incredible run of success in her career. Her latest album, SOS Deluxe: Lana, has been dominating the charts. Additionally, her film, One of Them Days, featuring actress Keke Palmer, has received widespread acclaim.
The singer has also solidified her place in the music industry with four Grammy wins. In 2025 alone, she received two Grammy nominations for Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song, bringing her total Grammy nominations to 26.
She recently took to Instagram to reflect on her journey, stating, “LIFE TOO SHORT TO PLAY SMALL AND NOT PRIORITIZE SELF LOVE AND SELF ACCEPTANCE! GOOD BAD AND OOGLY !!! AHHHH God is so good !! Yall are so good !! Sending love to everybuddy ❤️THANK YOU ❤️🫡🫶🏾🥲.”
Kendrick Lamar’s Legacy
Kendrick Lamar was announced as the headliner for the Super Bowl halftime show in September 2024. He encouraged fans to meet him in New Orleans on February 9, 2025, and urged them to dress their best, even if they would be watching from home.
With 17 Grammy wins to his name, Kendrick is considered one of the greatest rappers of all time. His impact on the music industry has been significant, and he remains the only musician outside of the classical or jazz genres to win a Pulitzer Prize, which he achieved in 2017 with his album DAMN.
NFL Head of Music, Seth Dudowsky, expressed confidence in Kendrick’s ability to deliver an unforgettable performance, stating, “Few artists have impacted music and culture as profoundly as Kendrick Lamar.”
Super Bowl Pregame Performances
Before Kendrick Lamar and SZA take the stage at halftime, several musical performances will take place during the pregame show. Jon Batiste is set to perform the National Anthem, while Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle will deliver a rendition of “America the Beautiful.” Additionally, Ledisi will sing “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
Post-Super Bowl Tour Plans
Following their Super Bowl performance, Kendrick Lamar and SZA will embark on a highly anticipated tour across the United States and Canada. This tour is in support of Kendrick’s sixth studio album, GNX.
Excitingly, two of the songs from the album feature SZA, making her inclusion in the tour even more significant. The tour is scheduled to begin on April 19 in Minneapolis and conclude on June 18 in Washington.
