Cam Newton Weighs In on NFL’s Decision to Choose Kendrick Lamar for Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show

Kendrick Lamar is gearing up for one of the most anticipated Super Bowl halftime performances in recent memory. Set to take center stage at Super Bowl LIX, the Compton-bred rapper has been riding high on the success of his chart-dominating track “Not Like Us.” Fans are eagerly awaiting what is sure to be an electrifying show at the NFL’s biggest event of the year.

However, since the NFL announced that Super Bowl LIX would be held in New Orleans, many believed hometown legend Lil Wayne was the obvious choice for the halftime show. The anticipation was strong, especially given Wayne’s deep connection to the city and his status as one of rap’s most influential figures. But when Roc Nation and the NFL revealed Kendrick Lamar as the headliner, it sparked a wave of discussion across social media, with many questioning if Wayne was snubbed.

Former NFL quarterback Cam Newton recently chimed in on the conversation during an appearance on ESPN’s “First Take.” Alongside sports analysts Stephen A. Smith and Shannon Sharpe, Newton expressed his mixed feelings.

“I don’t think they made the right decision,” Newton began, “but I do believe Kendrick Lamar is going to put on a phenomenal show.”

Newton went on to explain why he felt Lil Wayne was the more appropriate choice for a New Orleans Super Bowl.

“One thing they did really well in Los Angeles last year was representing the West Coast culture. I think with a big platform like the Super Bowl, going into New Orleans, why not Lil Wayne? Why not Master P? Why not Cash Money?”

"I think for the culture … going into New Orleans, why not Lil Wayne? Why not Master P? Why not Cash Money?"@CameronNewton disagrees with the decision to make Kendrick Lamar the Super Bowl LIX halftime show 👀 pic.twitter.com/crMOpEL5gl— First Take (@FirstTake) October 11, 2024

Despite his remarks drawing boos from a fan in the crowd, Newton’s opinion reflects that of many Lil Wayne supporters who hoped to see the Young Money mogul headline such a monumental event in his hometown. Fans believe the NFL missed a prime opportunity to highlight New Orleans’ rich musical history, from Wayne to the legendary Cash Money Records.

Lil Wayne himself responded to the news with disappointment. After the announcement, he took to social media, sharing his gratitude for fans who rallied behind him. In a heartfelt message, he wrote, “Your words turned into arms and held me up when I tried to fall back,” expressing his appreciation for the outpouring of support. Despite the setback, fans still speculate whether Kendrick Lamar might surprise viewers by bringing Lil Wayne out as a special guest during his performance, especially given Lamar’s history of praising the iconic rapper.

As excitement builds for Super Bowl LIX, the potential for a surprise collaboration between two of rap’s most celebrated artists has only heightened expectations. Whether or not Wayne takes the stage, Kendrick Lamar is set to deliver a powerful show, cementing his legacy on one of the world’s largest platforms.

Check out the teaser for the Apple Music halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar below!