2025 Half-time Show: Bop or Flop?

The latest Super Bowl halftime show featured two of our generation’s greatest artists: Kendrick Lamar and SZA. Because they are well-known for their exemplary rapping and ethereal singing, many students at BHS anticipated their hit duo songs, “All The Stars” and “Luther” from Lamar’s new album to be performed--it’s safe to say they weren’t disappointed.

“SZA and Kendrick put up one of the best Super Bowl halftime shows especially with songs from the new GNX album,” junior Hailey Samuel said.

Students like Samuel are big fans of these rappers, and to them, the halftime show was not only a great performance, but a story that revealed many hidden messages throughout the show. Lamar put in historical allusions to the show, referencing the Black emancipation in the 19th century while commenting on racial inequalities in the 21st century. However, these messages didn’t hit right with some students at BHS, as some say Lamar’s performance was a “petty diss” to another famous rapper, Drake, by featuring his ex-girlfriend, tennis player Serena Williams.

“It was really corny. I don’t like the new Kendrick,” senior Benjamin Sirota said.

In the end, the halftime show produced many mixed feelings throughout students which brings us to the conclusion that while some students may dislike certain music for their persona or presentation, others may be a big fanatic about them. So, it’s important to keep in mind that all differing opinions about music are valid, to always maintain respect towards others’ tastes and to be open to new music.