In the run up to the Super Bowl LIX, I spent hours on TikTok and Instagram watching reels about the makeup of the Eagles team. Given my political leanings and where I live, there was no question whom I was rooting for. Being a #Swiftie, I have been plugged into the Chiefs as well, notably the Kelce(s) with connections to both teams. So, when their quarterback and his family came out as openly MAGA last year, the match up took on more meaning than just a game of football.

As humans, we thrive on symbolism. At a time when it feels like we are in the midst of a dark, dystopian novel, this game came to stand for hope vs despair. So, naturally I rooted hard for my home team. When Kendrick Lamar was announced as the halftime performer, I went down another rabbit hole. I was already aware of his beef with Drake and the diss track in question. My obsession with K-pop had already primed me to appreciate how political rap as a genre is. But, I was not prepared for craft and artistry that the halftime show was. Go watch the show if you have not already. All 13 minutes of it. Pay attention to what he is saying.

My kids and I watched the game, rooted loudly for the Eagles, hugged and cried when they won and went to bed very, very happy. The morning after though was reserved for the analysis, the commentary and the break down of what was an epic evening. So, in no particular order, I am assembling a set of links that I probably will go back to in time.

Upasna Gautam on Threads writes beautifully about how masterful Lamar’s production yesterday was. Go check it out.

Seema again on threads does a good summary of the show and the things you might have missed.

Jessie Thomas gives context to the “revolution will not be televised” reference by Lamar

Also this from somewhere online.

The best and, nuanced explanation of the whole show from @muva_kita on TikTok.

A shorter summary video here.

So, if like me a huge part of the halftime show went over your head on first watch yesterday, take the time to read, understand, unpack and sit with the discomfort. America needs you to. This is what subversive art is all about.