Swifties Disappointed as Kendrick Lamar Misses Chance to Perform "Bad Blood" at Super Bowl
The 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, headlined by Kendrick Lamar, sparked a wave of disappointment among Taylor Swift’s fans, known as Swifties. Despite anticipation, Lamar did not perform "Bad Blood," his 2014 collaboration with Swift, leaving fans frustrated. Swifties took to social media expressing their dismay, feeling it was a missed opportunity to create a memorable moment.
Announcement of Kendrick Lamar’s Halftime Show
In September 2024, Apple Music and the NFL announced that Kendrick Lamar would headline the Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show. The announcement, shared on Instagram, featured Lamar on a football field with an American flag backdrop. Lamar also shared a video on social media, inviting fans to join him, building excitement for his performance.
Fan Reactions Illuminate Social Media
Fans reacted strongly on social media, expressing their disappointment and creativity. Many imagined Swift joining Lamar on stage, while others criticized the missed opportunity. The "Bad Blood" collaboration holds a special place for Swifties, who were eager to see it performed live, adding a visually dynamic element to the show.
"Bad Blood" – A Timeless Collaboration
"Bad Blood," featuring Kendrick Lamar, is a standout track from Taylor Swift’s album "1989." The song and its music video, filled with star-studded action sequences, became a cultural phenomenon. The absence of this performance at the Super Bowl was deeply felt, as fans anticipated a high-energy spectacle that would have captivated a broad audience.
Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s Public Feud
Lamar’s performance occurred amid his highly publicized feud with Drake. The two rappers exchanged diss tracks, with Lamar’s "Not Like Us" being particularly impactful, addressing personal attacks which Drake denied. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100, with its music video gaining over 216 million views, cementing Lamar’s victory in the feud.
Conclusion – A Missed Moment and Future Anticipation
Though Kendrick Lamar delivered a powerful halftime show, the absence of "Bad Blood" left Swifties hopeful for future collaborations. The incident highlights the power of live performances to connect artists with fans. Despite this miss, the excitement for Lamar’s future ventures remains high, leaving fans eager for what’s next.