There are two types of people. Those that listen to Joni Mitchell Blue and those who prefer Disney songs. A more relevant example? Those who watch the Super Bowl, and those who watch the Super Bowl Half Time Show. If you’re in the latter, then you’ve come to the right place. We’re running through the 2022 performance, from its iconic artists to their track choices and the broader cultural impact of the decadent occasion. Let’s do this thing.
This year’s artists were an old-school rap fan’s heaven. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent, and Anderson Paak (playing drums) were all on the bill, making this half-time performance one of the most stacked lineups since Bruno Mars, Coldplay, and Beyonce.
The whole performance was memorable for a plethora of reasons. Firstly, this was the first time hip-hop was the central genre of a Super Bowl Half Time show. Secondly, these rappers were from the old age of hip-hop, opting for nostalgia over what’s fresh. Thirdly, although this group performance was celebratory, it was also politically charged. Fourthly, I’m willing to bet my left arm that this was the most lyrically censored Half Time show ever. After all, this is Compton we’re talking about. And California knows how to party.
So, what were the songs performed? Snoop Dogg & Dr Dre kicked things off with The Next Episode, featuring the irresistible hook, “da da da da da, it’s the one and only D O double G. Snoop running onto the stage in a snazzy yellow and blue tracksuit after a sneaky toke was just too perfect. The long-standing rap companions then seamlessly transition into the late great 2Pac’s California Love. There were rumours that a hologram of 2Pac would emerge, but no cigar. Regardless, Dre and Snoop do an admirable job on the classic.
Next up is a surprise appearance from 50 Cent, who delivers his biggest hit, In Da Club, hanging upside-down. Of course, it’s wonderful that Dr Dre is present for the performance, with his production finesse having shaped the track into its legendary status. Mary J was next up, delivering her 2001 soul/hip-hop classics, Family Affair and No More Drama. As the only singer on the bill, her powerful vocals stand out brighter than ever.
Following Mary is the bill’s sole contemporary artist, Kendrick Lamar. Lamar deftly executes his politically charged anthem Alright, reminding fans that the exceptionally gifted rapper hasn’t gone anywhere. Next was a pivot back to the producing titan Dre with Forget About Dre. Then, came the rap god himself, Eminem, with his undisputed crowd-shaker, Lose Yourself. Even today, Marshall’s track hits like a double-decker bus. Once the track was finished, Eminem took a knee, a nod of solidarity to Colin Kaepernick’s push for equality. The show finishes where it started, with Dre and Snoop spitting out the 1999 single, Still D.R.E. It’s a fitting ending and an epic reminder of the golden era of rap music.
