The spotlight is on Kendrick Lamar’s new track, ‘Not Like Us’, as audiences debate whether it is too controversial for the forthcoming Super Bowl. Some believe the song’s charged lyrics, reflecting on racial inequality and police violence, make it a contentious choice for the high-profile sporting event. Nevertheless, the decision to feature the song demonstrates the National Football League’s (NFL) commitment to addressing social issues, a focus it has championed over recent years.
However, some critics argue that lyrics like “I can’t breathe” are too provocative, particularly given the Super Bowl’s diverse audience. Others commend Lamar for using his platform to highlight societal inequities and promote discussions on these significant issues. Awaiting the performance, spectators remain divided over whether the Super Bowl is the right platform for such political expression or whether it should uphold its traditional commitment to providing non-political entertainment.