Jay-Z’s NFL halftime show commitment remains strong despite criticism of Super Bowl 2025

The NFL has decided to continue working with Jay-Z and Roc Nation on Super Bowl halftime production, while also supporting their efforts for social justice, despite the backlash.

According to Bloomberg, commissioner Roger Goodell praised Roc Nation and its CEO, Desiree Perez, mentioning the strong, positive relationship they have built together.

“It’s a mutually positive relationship,” he said. “I’m not sure any of us really spend much time talking about contracts. Jay is happy. Desiree Perez is happy. I’m happy, so we’re all good.”

In 2019, ESPN first reported that the “N—–s In Paris” rapper and the league had established a partnership with an initial deal worth $25 million, spread over five years. year.

But criticism has flooded the partnership, mainly from accusations of boycotting former San Francisco 49er Colin Kaepernick. The athlete was unable to secure a spot on the team after protesting police brutality during the national anthem.

Because of that incident, Hov boldly represented Black music at Super Bowl halftime shows. He formed a lineup with The Weeknd, Rihanna, Usher, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, Mary J. Blige and 50 Cent.

For the upcoming Super Bowl LIX halftime show in New Orleans, Lamar will return to the stage once again despite the backlash.

Lil Wayne, a New Orleans native, should have been the frontrunner according to fans and fellow rap artists.

Weezy even expressed interest in it and later shared his disappointment following the announcement, revealing that being overlooked for a performance was a painful experience that deeply affected him. that.

“I blame myself for not being prepared for disappointment and for automatically putting myself in that position as if someone had told me that was my position. So I blame myself for that,” he said.

“I feel like I let you all down by not getting that opportunity, but I’m doing my best and I’m working. So thank you guys,” he added.

Tags Jay-Z, Super Bowl, Kendrick Lamar, Roc Nation

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