Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Entertainment

Jay-Z Clarifies That Choosing Kendrick Lamar for Super Bowl Show Was Not a Diss to Drake

Jay-Z has refuted accusations claiming that selecting Kendrick Lamar for the Super Bowl LIX halftime performance was intended as a slight against Drake, asserting the decision was solely merit-based. He emphasized that his choice was derived from Lamar's impressive success during that period.

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DrakeHalftime ShowJay-ZKendrick LamarMusic RivalrySuper Bowl

Jay-Z has denied allegations that picking Kendrick Lamar for the Super Bowl LIX halftime performance was meant as a jab at Drake, asserting that the choice was based purely on artistic merits.

In a recent interview, Jay-Z elaborated that Lamar was selected due to his remarkable achievements during that season, stating, "I chose the guy that was having a monster year. I think it was the right choice."

Rapper Jay-Z speaking about Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl selection

He dismissed any implications that the selection was tied to the ongoing tensions between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, remarking, "It wasn't in some sort of alliance to a battle. What I care about them two guys battling? What’s that got to do with me? Have at it. Have fun."

Jay-Z went on to address the larger narrative surrounding the situation, saying, "They drag everybody in it, like everyone’s part of this conspiracy to undermine Drake… But, it’s like, what the f*? Like what?!? I’m f** Jay-Z! All due respect to them. I’m f**** Hov. Respectfully, for what?!"

He also acknowledged that the rivalry between the two artists was pre-existing prior to the Super Bowl engagement and intensified in that timeframe.

These remarks come at a time of heightened speculation over celebrities seemingly taking sides, including LeBron James’ attendance at Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 Juneteenth concert, which allegedly triggered a reaction from Drake. Nonetheless, Jay-Z reiterated that his decision was unrelated to any feud, focusing strictly on performance quality and popularity.

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