In partnership with

“They tried to rig the game but you can’t fake influence.” — Kendrick Lamar

Spread the word: Forward this email to a friend who’ll love it!

Top Of The Morning, BFA Collective! Your grandkids might not even know what a penny is – if you still have a jar of them, you're definitely showing your age. Trump has just announced the end of new penny production, calling it a "waste" since each penny costs nearly 3.7 cents to produce. Nickels aren't faring much better, with each one costing almost 14 cents to make. In today's economy, where the average rent in America is hitting $2,000, a few extra pennies hardly make a dent.

MAIN STORY

Kendrick Lamar Brings Black Pride Center Stage at Super Bowl

The Super Bowl halftime show is usually about one thing: mass appeal. Artists put on big, flashy performances, packed with nostalgia, viral moments, and feel-good anthems designed to entertain a global audience.

But Kendrick Lamar?

He did something completely different. No over-the-top theatrics. No surprise guest appearances. No forced attempts to make the audience sing along. Instead, Kendrick gave us a raw, powerful performance that was deeply rooted in Black American pride. It wasn’t the spectacle people expected—but that was exactly the point.

Kendrick Defied Expectations

Most halftime shows follow a formula: bring out the biggest hits, throw in some elaborate stage effects, and make sure it appeals to as many people as possible. Kendrick ignored all of that. His set felt more like a statement than a concert, making it clear from the start that he wasn’t there to play it safe.

He didn’t chase viral trends or try to cater to the mainstream audience. There were no cheap gimmicks, no flashy costume changes—just Kendrick in his element, delivering bars with intention and precision. In an era where performances are often about spectacle over substance, Kendrick reminded us that art still matters.

Kendrick’s performance wasn’t just entertainment—it was a celebration. It was a reminder that Black artistry doesn’t need to be watered down to be impactful. It doesn’t have to cater to mainstream expectations to be powerful.

His performance felt like a rallying cry, a moment of cultural pride that refused to be diluted. The dancers, the staging, even the energy of the performance all reinforced a message of Black empowerment. This wasn’t about nostalgia or commercial success—it was about making a statement.

The Bottom Line

Kendrick Lamar didn’t just perform—he challenged the status quo. He broke the traditional Super Bowl rules by staying true to his artistry and his message. Whether people loved it or didn’t quite understand it, one thing is undeniable: his performance was unapologetically Black, unapologetically bold, and completely unforgettable.

And in a world where so many artists feel pressured to play it safe, that alone was revolutionary.

Start learning AI in 2025

Everyone talks about AI, but no one has the time to learn it. So, we found the easiest way to learn AI in as little time as possible: The Rundown AI.

It's a free AI newsletter that keeps you up-to-date on the latest AI news, and teaches you how to apply it in just 5 minutes a day.

Plus, complete the quiz after signing up and they’ll recommend the best AI tools, guides, and courses – tailored to your needs.

Sign up to start learning.

TRENDING

Seeking impartial news? Meet 1440.

Every day, 3.5 million readers turn to 1440 for their factual news. We sift through 100+ sources to bring you a complete summary of politics, global events, business, and culture, all in a brief 5-minute email. Enjoy an impartial news experience.

Join for free today!

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

‘MAGAZINE DREAMS’ Official Trailer

Jonathan Majors returns to the big screen with "Magazine Dreams," a film that once promised to solidify his status as a top actor. After critical acclaim at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, where Majors won an award for his role as a self-destructive bodybuilder, the film was shelved due to his legal issues. Now set for release on March 21, it marks his first major project since his conviction and probation. Despite controversy, Majors' talent shines through his intense transformation and portrayal of Killian Maddox, it seems that audiences and Hollywood are ready to welcome him back.

Reader’s Favorites:

• How to Start a Business as a Black Entrepreneur

• 8 Self-Care Essentials for the Modern Black Woman

• 8 Inspiring Toys and Books That Celebrate Black Identity