The showdown between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs in New Orleans was more than just football’s biggest night—it was a cultural moment. Super Bowl LXI unfolded as a powerful display of Black excellence, history, and artistry, making it one for the books during Black History Month.
The pregame performances set the tone, beginning with a stirring rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing by New Orleans’ own Ledisi, accompanied by 125 young voices from the Greater New Orleans High School Chorale Collective. Known as the Black National Anthem, the song—written in 1900 by Clark Atlanta University alum James Weldon Johnson—was given a soul-stirring performance that resonated deeply.
HBCU culture also took center stage as the renowned Southern University marching band teamed up with Harry Connick Jr. in a vibrant tribute to Mardi Gras and the city’s second-line tradition. Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle followed with a jazz-infused America the Beautiful before the incomparable Jon Batiste delivered a moving national anthem performance.
Kendrick Lamar Delivers a Halftime Show for the Culture
Kendrick Lamar didn’t just perform—he made a statement. Layered with symbolism and historical nods, his halftime show was a masterclass in storytelling. With Hollywood legend Samuel L. Jackson in the role of “Uncle Sam,” the performance opened with a sharp critique of America’s ongoing struggles with race and identity.
In a surprise appearance, tennis legend Serena Williams danced alongside Lamar during his track “Not Like Us,” adding an unexpected and memorable element to the show.
The set was visually stunning, featuring a massive joystick and a classic black 1987 GNX, as Kendrick kicked off with GNX. He honored the late Gil Scott-Heron by declaring, “The revolution’s about to be televised.”
With a performance that blended hip-hop, activism, and theater, Kendrick weaved through hits like DNA, Peek-A-Boo, and Not Like Us, with SZA joining him on stage for Luther and All The Stars. A pointed message—“Warning, Wrong Way”—flashed on the screen, underscoring his critique of America’s current political climate.
And with former President Trump in the audience, the moment couldn’t have been more timely.
Jalen Hurts Makes History
Beyond the halftime spectacle, the game itself delivered a historic moment. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts led his team to victory, becoming only the third Black quarterback to win Super Bowl MVP.
From start to finish, Super Bowl LXI was more than just a championship game—it was a bold cultural statement, affirming that Black excellence, resilience, and artistry will always be at the forefront. As for the halftime show, it was much more than entertainment, it was a powerful state filled with hidden messages.