Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performance was far from just entertainment—it was a masterclass in symbolism, addressing deep-rooted issues of race, capitalism, and power dynamics in the United States.
Cultural analyst Dr. N’Dea (@bmekween) took to Instagram to break down the intricate messages embedded in Lamar’s electrifying set, making it clear that this was no ordinary halftime show.
“This was not your average Super Bowl performance,” Dr. N’Dea wrote.
The Role of Uncle Sam and Code-Switching
Dr. N’Dea pointed out that throughout the performance, a character resembling Uncle Sam, played by Samuel L. Jackson, dictated Lamar’s actions—either praising or reprimanding him based on his behavior.
“At one point, he actually says, ‘gamekeeper, deduct one life,’ symbolizing how Black people in America are judged and penalized for not conforming to societal expectations,” she explained.
The performance underscored how Black individuals are often forced to code-switch or make themselves palatable to avoid consequences.
The American Flag and Squid Game Symbolism
Another striking element was the dancers’ sweatsuits, which momentarily formed an American flag.
Dr. N’Dea noted that the outfits bore a resemblance to those worn in Squid Game, the hit Netflix series that serves as a metaphor for capitalism.
In Squid Game, competitors fight each other for a grand prize, with the wealth accumulating as players are eliminated.
“In my opinion, him dancing in between the American flag is not just about division in the country—it’s about how people of different socioeconomic backgrounds remain divided, regardless of their political affiliations,” Dr. N’Dea explained.
The Game Controller Stage and Social Fragmentation
The stage itself was shaped like a game controller, representing how the U.S. government exerts control over society.
During one segment, Lamar danced at different points of an “X” formation.
“To me, that symbolized how various racial and ethnic groups are siloed within their own communities, only occasionally acknowledging each other without truly working together,” Dr. N’Dea said.
Defiance Through “Not Like Us” and Serena Williams’ Statement
One of the most controversial moments of the night was Lamar’s decision to perform Not Like Us, despite being advised against it by industry elites.
“The Super Bowl is supposed to be an apolitical spectacle, a distraction under capitalism,” Dr. N’Dea explained. “But Lamar refused to play by those rules.”
Serena Williams also made a powerful statement by Crip Walking on stage.
“She was once fined and publicly criticized for doing this at a tennis match, even after she won. Her reclaiming that moment on this stage was monumental,” Dr. N’Dea noted.
“Turn This TV Off” and the Call for Revolution
Lamar ended his performance with the repeated phrase: “Turn this TV off.”
Dr. N’Dea interpreted this as a direct critique of how major events like the Super Bowl serve as distractions for the working class.
“Most Americans watching this event are just trying to escape the grind of working for pennies and fighting each other for small raises,” she said.
The final words, “Game Over,” weren’t just a conclusion to the show but a rallying cry for change.
“The revolution cannot happen if people don’t recognize it, participate, and remain committed,” Dr. N’Dea explained.
To Dr N’Dea, Lamar’s Super Bowl performance wasn’t just music—it was a cultural reset, sparking conversations that will likely continue long after the final whistle blew.
