Kendrick Lamar and SZA are gearing up for the big game. The “Not Like Us” rapper is set to headline the Super Bowl LIX halftime show and welcome SZA, his frequent collaborator, to the stage as a special guest.
Videos by American Songwriter
After the GRAMMY Awards, SZA spoke in the press room about what fans can expect from the show.
“That’s King Kendrick’s performance, and that is all for him to divulge,” she told reporters. “What I can say is he’s worked really hard on it, and I’m so honored to be a part of it.”
Later, during the Apple Music Super Bowl press conference, Lamar promised fans that they can expect “storytelling” when he takes the stage.
“I’ve always been very open about storytelling through all my catalogue and my history of music,” he said. “And I’ve always had a passion about bringing that on whatever stage I’m on.”
Before the highly-anticipated performance—and ahead of the pair’s co-headlining Grand National Tour in April—take a look back at Lamar and SZA’s four best collaborations.
“Babylon”
Lamar and SZA first teamed up 2014 on her EP, Z. The track perfectly represents what was to come from the pair—soulful vocals and lyrics from SZA and rapid-fire rhymes from Lamar.
“Doves in the Wind”
SZA once again tapped Lamar to collaborate with her on her debut LP, Ctrl, in 2017. On “Doves in the Wind,” SZA sang about brushing off men who don’t deserve her, and Lamar seconded his pal. The music video featured Lamar teaching SZA kung fu moves. In the end, though, the student became the master, and SZA defeated Lamar.
“All the Stars”
On the 2018 soundtrack from Black Panther, Lamar and SZA collaborated for an unforgettable track. “All the Stars” was unquestioningly a hit, as it was nominated for an Oscar, GRAMMY, Golden Globe, and VMA, coming out victorious at the latter show.
“Luther”
The pair once again teamed up on GNX, Lamar’s 2024 surprise album. SZA appeared on two songs of Lamar’s LP, but “Luther” was definitely the stand out. The track sampled Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn’s “If This World Were Mine,” bringing new life to the 1982, Marvin Gaye-penned tune.
Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images for Coachella
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.