The Super Bowl LXI had no shortage of major Black cultural moments. Kendrick Lamar and SZA were an entertainment masterclass. Musicians like Ledisi, Jon Batiste, and Trombone Shorty introduced the best of their hometown. All this and more took place at the 2025 Super Bowl, and below, we recount more from football’s biggest night.

Ledisi Sings the Black National Anthem With a Youth Choir

Ledisi entranced the crowd with her powerful voice during a live rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” where she was supported by students members of the Greater New Orleans High School Chorale Collective.

Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle Deliver a Jazzy “America the Beautiful”

Louisiana natives and Grammy winners Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle brought the Big Easy to the field with members of Orleans Avenue.

Jon Batiste Performs the National Anthem

Representing NOLA with a soulful piano rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” was Jon Batiste, who was accompanied by his signature piano.

HBCU Representation

The Southern University Human Jukebox brought Baton Rouge to New Orleans as an opener, with help from actor-singer Harry Connick Jr.

Kendrick Lamar and Friends Wow the Stadium

SZA, Samuel L. Jackson, Mustard, and Serena Williams were the special guests of Kendrick Lamar’s historic Super Bowl LIX Apple Music Halftime Show. While the show provided a deep cultural dialogue on current affairs, it was also a celebration, with “Not Like Us” performed on the big stage.