• Kendrick Lamar won five Grammys for his hit "Not Like Us," including Record of the Year.
• The feud with Drake has escalated to legal disputes, impacting their professional lives.
• As the first solo rapper to headline a Super Bowl halftime show, Lamar is poised for historic recognition.

In an electrifying start to 2025, Kendrick Lamar has solidified his status as a towering figure in hip-hop, winning five Grammys—including the coveted Record of the Year and Song of the Year for his fiery diss track "Not Like Us." This highly publicized single, aimed squarely at rival Drake, comes in the wake of a theatrical and ongoing feud that has captivated fans and critics alike. As he prepares to headline the Super Bowl LIX halftime show, Lamar's music has resonated deeply, even igniting viral moments such as Taylor Swift's enthusiastic dance during his Grammy acceptance speech.

The roots of Lamar and Drake's animosity trace back to their early collaboration days, but the pair have exchanged multiple lyrical jabs over the years. The tension reached new heights with the release of "Not Like Us," a track regarded as a definitive statement in their back-and-forth battle, now underpinned by legal complexities. Recently, Drake filed a defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group, alleging that the promotion of Lamar's track has caused genuine harm to his public image, particularly stressing the lyrics that he claims link him to serious accusations. As reported by AP News, the lawsuit notably does not name Lamar as a defendant, focusing instead on targeting UMG's promotional tactics.

Lamar’s Super Bowl performance marks a groundbreaking moment for hip-hop, as he becomes the first solo rapper to take center stage at this iconic event in its nearly six-decade history. The halftime show has traditionally hesitated to embrace rap music fully, often leaning towards pop acts or inoffensive performers to cater to a broad audience. Lamar’s invitation, however, signifies a cultural shift, providing a platform to showcase his artistry and potentially deliver a politically charged message, depending on the thematic direction he chooses for the performance. According to Vox, there’s speculation about whether he will perform "Not Like Us," given the ongoing legal challenges surrounding it, although legal experts argue the risks may be limited.

Over the years, the dispute between Lamar and Drake has unfolded through subliminal diss tracks and public interviews, all magnified by their status as two of hip-hop’s most influential figures. The latest exchanges in early 2025 spotlights this rivalry once again, with “Not Like Us” climbing to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and dominating streaming platforms. This fruitful year for Lamar marks a resurgence fueled by his talent, sharp lyricism, and willingness to challenge Drake artistically and personally.

Lamar's prowess extends beyond just Grammy wins and potential Super Bowl glory; his cultural impact remains palpable. While some might hope for a more collaborative relationship given their history, the path forward appears firm in its competitive spirit. With both artists preparing for an even newer chapter in their careers, fans are left to wonder how this iconic and tumultuous rivalry will continue to shape the landscape of hip-hop. The world will be watching as Kendrick Lamar takes the stage on what promises to be a night full of spectacle and significance, as discussed in detail by CNN.

For updates regarding their ongoing feud and analysis of Lamar's performance topics, stay tuned.