Kendrick Lamar set the Super Bowl stage on fire with his unforgettable performance, but who’s next to bring hip-hop to the halftime spotlight?
Fresh off his Grammy sweep, Kendrick Lamar rocked the Super Bowl with a theatrical show, proving his place as the Best Rapper Alive. His battle with Drake took center stage, captivating a record-breaking 133.5 million viewers.
While a few years back, a solo rapper headlining the Super Bowl seemed unlikely, the dynamic has shifted thanks to JAY-Z and Roc Nation, ushering hip-hop into the spotlight. This shift has seen icons like The Weeknd and Usher headline in recent years.
The big question now is: which rapper should take the Super Bowl stage next? It’s not just about having hits and stage presence; they must also fit with the NFL’s corporate image. This makes deciding the next headliner quite a challenge.
Travis Scott, for example, has all the energy and hits needed, from ‘Sicko Mode’ to ‘Antidote.’ His partnerships with big brands show his appeal, though the Astroworld tragedy may hold him back. Yet his recovery with a successful new album boosts his chances for 2026.
Drake offers a hit-packed, diverse setlist and the allure of a Kendrick diss track at the Super Bowl. However, past refusals and a lawsuit against Apple Music’s NFL sponsorship could delay his appearance until 2027.
Eminem, the best-selling rapper ever, already proved his Super Bowl worth with Dr. Dre. With a plethora of hits and potential support acts like 50 Cent, he’s a fan favorite. Plus, he’s always bold enough to make a statement, adding intrigue to his potential show.
Fans were upset Kendrick performed over Lil Wayne in New Orleans, his hometown. Though Wayne has the hits, like ‘A Milli’ and ‘Lollipop,’ concerns about his performance reliability linger. Nevertheless, as a legend in the industry, he’s a worthy contender.
JAY-Z organizing the halftime shows creates a conflict of interest, yet the demand for him to perform remains strong. With an extensive catalog and potential guest stars like Beyoncé, his performance seems inevitable despite the timing challenges.
Nicki Minaj, who has previously appeared with Madonna, remains a force in hip-hop. Her recent success and the ability to perform hits like ‘Super Freaky Girl’ make her a strong candidate. Yet her criticism of the NFL for snubbing Lil Wayne could complicate things.
Tyler, The Creator trades crossover hits for compelling performances, much like Kendrick. His creative showmanship and storytelling would make for an unforgettable halftime experience, even without mainstream hits.
Finally, Doja Cat, known for her theatrical performances, could energize the Super Bowl. Despite her controversies, her talent and stage presence might make her the first female rapper to headline.
As hip-hop continues to claim its rightful place on the Super Bowl stage, the next headliner could be anyone’s guess, with so much talent to consider.
