JAY-Z recently faced criticism over the upcoming Super Bowl halftime show, but several prominent voices in hip-hop quickly came to his defense.
The announcement that Kendrick Lamar will perform at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans next February has sparked outrage among Lil Wayne fans. They argue that Lil Wayne, being a New Orleans native, deserved the slot. Eminent critics like Nicki Minaj, Birdman, Juvenile, Cam’ron, and Master P have even blamed JAY-Z, who is instrumental in organizing the halftime show through Roc Nation.
Fat Joe, however, jumped to JAY-Z’s defense. On Instagram Live, Joe reminded everyone that JAY-Z and Roc Nation have brought hip-hop to the Super Bowl stage since partnering with the NFL in 2019. Joe mentioned notable successes like Dr. Dre, Eminem, and Rihanna, who have all garnered top ratings with their performances.
Fat Joe also emphasized that the decision isn’t solely JAY-Z’s, pointing out that the NFL and its higher-ups like Roger Goodell have a significant role in choosing the performers. To blame one person, he argued, was unjust.
Fabolous echoed Fat Joe’s sentiments in his own Instagram Live session. While he acknowledged that a Lil Wayne performance in New Orleans would have been special, he suggested that Kendrick’s recent success, particularly his victory over Drake in their high-profile feud, likely played a crucial role in the decision.
Even Funk Flex from Hot 97 stepped in to defend JAY-Z. Flex criticized the NFL for its historically poor treatment of people of color and cautioned against letting the organization pit people against each other. He also underlined Lil Wayne’s established legacy, arguing that it speaks for itself.
Charlamagne Tha God from The Breakfast Club countered the narrative that JAY-Z intentionally snubbed Lil Wayne. He highlighted JAY-Z’s support for Wayne over the years, including helping him resolve significant tax debts. For Charlamagne, the choice of Kendrick was simply a smart business decision.
Lastly, Memphis Bleek, JAY-Z’s old friend, shared his amusement on social media at the backlash Hov is facing. His comment summed up a feeling shared by many: the blame placed on JAY-Z is misguided and exaggerated.
In the end, the debate over the Super Bowl halftime show reveals the passion and complexity within the hip-hop community. While emotions run high, many believe JAY-Z’s contributions and decisions have ultimately elevated the genre on a global stage.
