The announcement of Kendrick Lamar as the headliner for the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show stirred up online debates, especially since the event will be hosted in New Orleans, the hometown of rap legend Lil Wayne. While initially disappointed, Wayne has shown grace and optimism in addressing the situation.
Wayne’s Reaction to Being Overlooked
Lil Wayne, born Dwayne Carter, has openly expressed his disappointment about not being chosen to perform at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. In a heartfelt Instagram Live session, he shared, “I thought there was nothing better than that spot, that stage, that platform, in my city. So it hurt, it hurt a whole lot.”
However, during a recent appearance on The Skip Bayless Show, Wayne set the record straight about his feelings toward Kendrick Lamar, emphasizing mutual respect.
Wayne’s Words for Lamar
When asked about his thoughts on Lamar, Wayne revealed that he spoke directly to the Compton rapper. “I’ve spoken to him, and I wished him all the best. I told him, ‘You better kill it. You got to kill it,’” Wayne said, showing his support despite the circumstances.
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Headlining Gig
The NFL announced in September that Kendrick Lamar will headline the highly anticipated Super Bowl Halftime Show. This decision sparked debates about whether Lamar deserved the spot over Wayne, given Wayne’s deep ties to New Orleans.
Lamar’s selection follows a stellar 2024, marked by a surprise album release (GNX), a tour announcement, and chart-topping diss records that secured him a victory in a feud with Drake. His album, GNX, was crowned number one on Billboard’s “20 Best Rap Albums of 2024” list.
The “Wacced Out Murals” Lyric Explained
During the same interview, Wayne addressed a lyric from Lamar’s album GNX, where Lamar raps:
“Used to bump ‘Tha Carter III,’ I held my Rollie chain proud / Irony, I think my hard work let Lil Wayne down.”
Wayne admitted it was his first time hearing the line but interpreted it positively. “I think he just means… his hard work is the reason why he made it there, and obviously ‘let me down’ is me just being upset,” Wayne clarified, downplaying any perceived tension.
Looking Ahead
While Wayne may have missed out on the halftime stage this year, his influence on hip-hop remains undeniable. Fans continue to rally around the New Orleans icon, and his legacy stands strong. Meanwhile, all eyes will be on Kendrick Lamar as he takes the Super Bowl Halftime Show stage, carrying the hopes of both fans and critics alike.
Source: USA Today
