The head of Roc Nation, Desiree Perez, shared why Kendrick Lamar is the “right person” to take the stage at Apple Music’s Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show coming up in New Orleans.
Speaking to NOLA.com on Thursday, Perez spilled some tea about the big show – turns out they thought about having Lil Wayne as the main act, and it was actually Lamar who pushed to bring SZA into the mix.
Discussing why Kendrick Lamar fits the bill, she declared “Kendrick is the right person for the show at this moment,” explaining that timing, performer choice, and purpose were key factors in the decision. She highlighted how Lamar’s Compton roots and stellar year make him a perfect match for a New Orleans Super Bowl.
“He’s had an incredible year, very deserving of the attention,” Perez commented about Lamar. “The Grammys also acknowledged that. That’s part of the consideration for the halftime show. Kendrick’s richness and culture is really a nod to New Orleans.”
Addressing Lil Wayne’s potential involvement, Perez noted, “I didn’t choose the artist, but I do believe that definitely there was consideration” about the NOLA native, before reiterating that “Kendrick is the right person for the show at this moment.”
She revealed that Jay-Z creates a curated list of potential performers. “He comes back with ideas. It really starts with his thinking,” she explained. “It’s easier for him. It’s almost like a chef picking the specials for the evening. He comes up with the shortlist, and we work our way through that.”
According to Perez, Jay was particularly hands-on in picking pregame talent, ensuring strong Louisiana representation.
Metairie-born Jon Baptiste will deliver the national anthem. Local legend Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews teams up with Lake Charles native and Lafayette-raised Lauren Daigle for “America the Beautiful.”
NOLA’s own Ledisi will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
While Lil Wayne previously shared his frustration about not landing the gig, he’s since given Kendrick his blessing, telling him to “kill it.” The big game kicks off at the Caesars Superdome on Feb. 9.
