JAY-Z is facing criticism surrounding the choice of performer for next year’s Super Bowl halftime show, but many voices are rallying in his defense, including Bronx legend Fat Joe.
The controversy began when it was announced that Kendrick Lamar will headline the Super Bowl LIX halftime show in New Orleans next February. The decision ignited outrage among Lil Wayne fans, who feel that the rap icon, hailing from New Orleans, was a more fitting choice for the occasion.
Several prominent figures in the hip-hop community, including Nicki Minaj, Birdman, Juvenile, Cam’ron, and Master P, have also voiced their disappointment, with some blaming JAY-Z, whose Roc Nation has partnered with the NFL to organize the show since 2019.
However, Fat Joe took to Instagram Live on Tuesday (September 10) to defend JAY-Z’s role in the Super Bowl halftime production, highlighting the significant platform the hip-hop mogul has provided for the genre.
“Years ago, the issue with the NFL was that Black artists weren’t represented, even though we were the talent,” Joe explained. “But since JAY-Z and Roc Nation got involved, we’ve seen Dr. Dre, Eminem, Rihanna — all delivering number one ratings and killing it.”
Fat Joe was quick to point out that the decision-making process isn’t solely in JAY-Z’s hands. “Yes, JAY-Z is a major voice, but he has to go through the NFL hierarchy, including commissioner Roger Goodell, to make decisions on who performs at the halftime show,” Joe said. “It’s not just one man’s decision, so blaming him alone isn’t fair.”
The rapper-turned-entrepreneur concluded his defense of JAY-Z with humor, saying, “If it wasn’t for JAY-Z and Roc Nation, we wouldn’t have any hip-hop at the halftime show!”
Fat Joe’s comments aim to redirect the criticism away from JAY-Z and emphasize the cultural significance of hip-hop’s increased visibility on one of the world’s largest stages, thanks to Roc Nation’s involvement.
