Kendrick Lamar is causing a stir yet again, dominating headlines with his latest project and addressing controversial topics that have people talking
On September 8th, the news broke that Kendrick Lamar would headline the biggest show of the year—Super Bowl 2024. While many were ecstatic at the thought of hearing Lamar perform his hit tracks for the world’s largest audience, not everyone was pleased. Among those mentioned in related discussions was Lil Wayne, whose fan base expressed disappointment over his exclusion.
Kendrick Lamar’s 2024: A Year of Controversy and Viral Hits
2024 has been a monumental year for Lamar, especially with the release of his explosive diss track against Drake, titled “They Not Like Us.”While not quite expected, this track spread like wildfire and became a viral sensation.
While Superbowl performances are not a traditional competition, they serve as a stage to showcase popularity. And in this arena, money is often the deciding factor. The choice that will bring in more advertising revenue and attract a bigger audience is typically the top pick.
Super Bowl Selection Lights a Fire
Ever since it was announced that Kendrick Lamar would be the headliner during halftime of the Super Bowl in Wayne’s hometown, he has become a target. Vanity Fair notes,
“Super Bowl LIX is scheduled to be played on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans and will air on Fox. The performance will be Lamar’s second during the halftime show.”
It’s not very hard to see why fans were upset that Wayne was not included on the bill, and even the artist himself expressed his disappointment on social media. With all eyes on Lamar and pressure mounting, he saw this as a chance to showcase his lyrical prowess and sharpen his pen.
Kendrick Lamar’s “Wacced Out Murals”
Lamar’s latest artwork clearly conveys his fatigue with the drama as he addresses his emotions head-on in “Wacced Out Murals.” And if anyone is skilled at sending a message through their lyrics, it’s Lamar. The meaning behind these lines is crystal clear.
“Won the Super Bowl and Nas the only one congratulate me / All these n-ggas agitated, I’m just glad they showed they faces / Quite frankly, plenty artists but they outdated / Old-ass flows, tryna convince me that you they favorite / This is not for lyricists, I swear it’s not the sentiments / F*** a double entendre, I want y’all to feel this shit.”
However, ascending to a higher level can also bring about a moment of realization for both the individual and those in their circle. This important decision has brought clarity to the artist; he no longer desires artificial support. He creates because it is his passion; he will continue to do so regardless of who stands by him.
Kendrick Lamar Responds to Snoop Dogg’s Support of Drake
It wasn’t just the drama with Wayne that pushed Kendrick Lamar to hone his flow and expression. Snoop Dogg’s choice to publicly support Drake by sharing one of his tracks also caused feelings of betrayal. Kendrick explicitly addressed these emotions in his own work, venting out his thoughts.
“Snoop posted ‘Taylor Made,’ I prayed it was the edibles / I couldn’t believe it, it was only right for me to let it go.”
Kendrick Lamar’s Artistry Shines Bright
Artists understand that their craft is a display of skill and a source of release. Some choose to translate their emotions into music. This is one of the ways Lamar channels and articulates his rawest emotions. While some may criticize his method, it’s working for him. He seems to be a master at turning lemons into dollars, proving that he is a rare breed.
Despite the intense heat and blinding lights, it is Kendrick Lamar’s moment to shine.
