The Most Talked About Moments From Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Performance

Not many artists can say 133 million people tuned in to watch them perform. But Kendrick Lamar certainly can. The 22x Grammy-award-winning rapper drew in viewers from everywhere on Feb. 9 as he put on what is being hailed as one of the greatest Super Bowl halftime shows in history. The 13-minute set was jam-packed with notable moments, including star-studded cameos, addicting dance moves, and meaningful messages. These are the moments people can’t stop raving about.

The Return of the Flared Jean

Lamar’s outfit was the talk of the night, specifically the pair of flared Celine jeans he sported. These jeans, valued at $1,200, quickly became a fan favorite, with people taking to social media looking for a pair to call their own. (Fun fact: the pants were first meant for Timothée Chalamet, who shares stylist Taylor McNeill with Lamar.)

Serena Williams's Crip Walk

No one expected to see tennis star Serena Williams crip walking to “Not Like Us” during Lamar’s performance. So it’s clear why people can’t stop talking about this moment. Williams underwent extreme scrutiny for dancing the same move after winning gold at the 2012 London Olympics, making this year’s a major clapback to the haters.

"Not Like Us" Setlist Appearance

Speaking of “Not Like Us,” viewers couldn’t have been more excited to hear the diss track broadcasted on live television. Lamar’s cheeky grin while saying, “Say Drake… I hear you like ‘em young” stuck with people the most, so much so that the moment has become a viral reaction picture.

The Underlying Message

But, most importantly, Lamar’s performance has resonated with so many people because of its message. Black viewers specifically have taken to social media, expressing joy at the show’s abundant Black representation. Not only that, but they also shared feelings of empowerment after hearing phrases like “The revolution ‘bout to be televised” and “40 acres and a mule: This is bigger than the music.” All of which serves as a call to action, encouraging people to fight against the injustice they see around them.