One key takeaway from Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, according to the artist, is the importance of “storytelling.” On Thursday, February 6, the 22-time Grammy Award winner had a conversation with Apple Music’s Ebro Darden and Nadeska Alexis about what to anticipate from his highly anticipated performance, which included details about the guests.

Lamar has consistently been open about incorporating storytelling across his entire discography and music history, and he’s had a strong passion for sharing that on every stage he performs on, whether it’s a global tour or a show to 500 people at a venue like Key Club.

The Compton rapper will be bringing a significant amount of “LA energy” to the Caesars Superdome on Sunday, February 9. “This is something I’d like to showcase in New Orleans and for everyone to witness,” he stated. “I want that energy to seep into the televisions and reach the people inside the building.”

The only confirmed special guest for the halftime show is SZA, with whom Lamar has not yet had a chance to discuss the event. “He explained that everything has been happening very quickly,” then said, “She has always possessed this ability, and I feel privileged to be alongside her exceptional abilities.”

Lamar’s set is likely to adhere to a formula established by previous Super Bowl performances, indicating that he may perform timeless hits such as “HUMBLE.” He’s also likely to sneak in at least a small reference to “Not Like Us,” considering the numerous jabs at Drake. There’s also a strong chance he’ll slip in at least a small snippet of “Not Like Us” — taking into account all the Drake jabs, of course.

Lamar discussed the creative process behind GNX in a recent interview with Apple Music. “What came to mind was, ‘Man, what I used to enjoy as a child?’ The tough lyrics and great music production that really impressed me, that’s the real deal.” The artist behind “Poetic Justice” stated that it was a significant transition from [Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers] because the latter was their most personal project.

The 12-song album caught listeners off guard in November 2024. The festival featured a variety of acts including Luther, mural artwork known as Wacced out murals, and the TV Off collective, along with guest performances by Roddy Ricch, SZA, Lefty Gunplay, and AzChike, among others.