The buzz surrounding Kendrick Lamar headlining the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show in New Orleans over Lil Wayne has taken the internet by storm. Speculations about Jay-Z’s involvement and the NFL’s decision-making process have sparked debates among fans. But who really decides which artists get to grace the big stage at the Big Game?
How Are Super Bowl Halftime Show Headliners Selected?
An article from January 2024 on SportsCasting sheds light on the criteria for choosing artists for the prestigious event. Factors such as popularity, music genre, and overall performance value play a crucial role in the selection process.
The NFL, along with Roc Nation, begins by compiling a list of artists that will appeal to the massive audience of over 100 million viewers. Despite initial selections, the final decision does not rest solely with the NFL. Host cities play a significant role in choosing the halftime performers. Additionally, discussions with corporate sponsors are essential to ensure the chosen act aligns with the event. Approval for guest performers and song sets is also required.
Although the uproar over Kendrick Lamar’s selection over Lil Wayne is largely tied to location, with New Orleans being Wayne’s hometown, previous years have shown that location is not always a determining factor. An exception was Dr. Dre performing at the 2022 Super Bowl in Los Angeles.
What Role Does Jay-Z Play?
As a partner with the NFL for live performances, Jay-Z and Roc Nation have a say in the selection process. However, the final decision seems to be influenced by other parties. Despite this, Jay-Z expressed satisfaction with this year’s choice. Following the announcement of Kendrick Lamar as the headliner for the Super Bowl halftime show, Jay-Z praised the Compton rapper for his artistry and cultural impact.
“Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer,” Jay-Z’s statement reads. “His influence on hip-hop and culture is unparalleled, and his work transcends music, leaving a lasting impact globally.”
XXL has reached out to the NFL and Roc Nation for further comments.
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FAQs
Q: How are Super Bowl halftime show headliners chosen?
A: The selection process involves factors such as popularity, music genre, and overall performance value. The NFL and Roc Nation collaborate to create a list of potential artists, with host cities and corporate sponsors playing a role in the final decision.
Q: What role does Jay-Z play in selecting performers?
A: Jay-Z and Roc Nation have input in the decision-making process, but the final say appears to be determined by other parties involved in the selection process.
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