Months after captivating audiences during the NFL’s Super Bowl LIX, Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance has made headlines once again. On September 25, 2023, it was announced that Lamar’s show received four nominations at the 77th annual Primetime Emmy Awards. The nominations include Outstanding Variety Special (Live), Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special, Outstanding Music Direction, and Outstanding Choreography (Variety/Reality).
The halftime show, produced by Roc Nation and Jesse Collins Entertainment, was anchored by Lamar’s hit single “Not Like Us” and attracted a record audience of 133.5 million viewers. The performance showcased tracks from his recent album “GNX,” including “squabble up,” “peekaboo,” “tv off,” and “luther,” featuring SZA. Additionally, Lamar revisited some of his most popular songs, such as “Alright” and “Swimming Pools.”
Lamar’s performance was not only musically rich but also featured notable appearances. Actor Samuel L. Jackson portrayed “Uncle Sam,” while Serena Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, made a memorable cameo during “Not Like Us.” Music producer Mustard, who worked on both “Not Like Us” and “tv off,” also participated in the show.
This is not Lamar’s first encounter with the Emmys. He previously won an Emmy for his halftime performance at Super Bowl LVI, which included icons like Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Eminem, and 50 Cent. That show was historic, marking the first Super Bowl halftime to receive an Emmy award.
In a competitive landscape, Lamar faces off against Beyoncé in the Outstanding Variety Special (Live) category. Beyoncé’s performance during the Christmas Day matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans was also nominated. Her show featured songs from her “Cowboy Carter” album, including “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM,” and showcased the Texas Southern University Ocean of Soul marching band and the Motion of the Ocean dance team.
Both artists are currently on major stadium tours. Kendrick Lamar and SZA are touring internationally with their “Grand National Tour,” which concluded its North American leg in June, while Beyoncé continues her “Cowboy Carter” tour.
As the Emmy Awards approach, Lamar’s performance continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying his status as a leading figure in contemporary music and entertainment.
