Curating 'DAMN.' good Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl Halftime Show set list

After a relatively quiet beginning to 2024, Kendrick Lamar fans have been eating. The 17-time Grammy winner kicked off his summer with a verse on the chart-topping Future song, "Like That," continuing the momentum with three tracks of his own, "euphoria," "meet the grahams" and "Not Like Us." Now, hot on the trails of a very public feud with Drake, the artist announced his victory lap on Sunday: performing at the 2025 Super Bowl LIX halftime show.

While some Drizzy loyalists were quick to critique the NFL's decision to feature Kendrick, it was truly a no-brainer. The rapper already performed at the Super Bowl in 2022, but he shared billing with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem and Mary J. Blige. Now, he'll have the opportunity to headline the most-watched event in U.S.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning artist will likely use the opportunity to highlight racial injustice and financial disparity. But with his deep and versatile catalog, he's also got undeniable hits, sure to energize the inevitably sold-out crowd at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.

"Mona Lisa"

One of the biggest controversies from the announcement was that Lil Wayne, who hails from New Orleans, wouldn't have the chance to perform in his hometown, which he recently expressed as being a dream. To rectify this, it would make sense to let him perform a song or at least join Kendrick Lamar to perform their track "Mona Lisa (feat. Kendrick Lamar)."

The subject matter of the song isn't exactly a perfect fit for football, describing the story of a woman setting up her boyfriend in a robbery. But, a shortened version of the song that features Lamar's tongue-twisting verse and a dramatic entrance from Lil Wayne would have all eyes glued to the TV.

"All the Stars"

Purely based on the visuals of its music video, "All The Stars (with SZA)" would create an unforgettable Super Bowl set piece. The track, which explores love and dreams, could inspire some creative staging and decor. With Lamar also likely bringing out SZA, who is featured on the track, it would be a definite crowd favorite.

"Money Trees"

"Money Trees" was once a hidden gem in Lamar's discography, but it rightfully gained renewed popularity through a TikTok trend a few years ago. While Lamar probably won't do the corresponding dance, it would be a missed opportunity not to feature this catchy song in another lively atmosphere.

"King Kunta"

If Lamar hadn't already executed a flawless rendition of "Alright" during the 2022 Super Bowl, it would be a lock for this year. Instead, he could take this opportunity to perform another classic from the same album, "King Kunta."

The funky track, which dually serves as Lamar's braggadocious claim to the rap throne and a reminder of the country's upsetting roots, would appease some of his die-hard fans.

"m.A.A.d. city"

As the show shifts away from the more inspirational and lighthearted music, "m.A.A.d city" would represent a sharp turn, with Lamar delivering one of his most hard-hitting, no-holds-barred tracks. A football game isn't an ideal place for a mosh pit, but this number could spark a new trend.

"Family Ties"

"family ties (with Kendrick Lamar)" isn't technically a Kendrick Lamar song, but it provides him with the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform at the Super Bowl alongside his cousin, Baby Keem.

The two have an unmistakable chemistry on the track that, when partnered with the infectious trumpets and unpredictable beat switch, shapes a chaotic experience. Considering the song's status as a modern-day hype-song staple, it would be embraced among the players, coaches and fans alike.

"Not Like Us"

While many fans are probably tired of hearing "Not Like Us," this was likely the song that clinched Lamar's Super Bowl performance. Out of all the songs that he dropped in the summer of 2024, it performed the best on the charts and culminated in, arguably, the most viral moment of his storied career.

Despite the disturbing, life-ruining accusations hurled at Drake and his crew, there's no denying that DJ Mustard beat and the memorable hook, "They not like us."

Plus, for Lamar, it'll be hard to pass up one last chance to troll Drake.

Regardless of what songs Lamar chooses to showcase, his upcoming performance will be one for the history books.