Kendrick Lamar will perform instead.
Not everyone is excited aboutKendrick Lamarplayingthe halftime show at next year’s Super Bowlin New Orleans.
The video was published late Thursday night, several days after Lamar’s gig had been announced.
Lil Wayne.Amy Sussman/Getty
The rapper born Dwayne Michael Carter Jr. started off by explaining that he needed time to process.
“Forgive me for the delay,” Wayne said.
“I had to get strength enough to do this without breaking.
Thank you to every voice, every opinion, all the love and support out there.
Your words turned into arms and held me up when I tried to fall back.”
Amy Sussman/Getty
He then got to his feelings about not being chosen: “That hurt a lot.
I blame myself for not being mentally prepared for a letdown.
For just automatically mentally putting myself in that position, like someone told me that was my position.”
“It broke me.
I’m just trying to put me back together.
But, my God, how you all have helped me.”
In addition to scoring multiple No.
Minaj passionately defended Wayne on social media after Lamar’s selection was announced.
“Wayne had Drake & I on his tour w/no papers signed.
He was on all of my mixtapes w/no papers signed.
This man has literally changed the FACE of hip hop.
He inspired so many to tat their faces & get locks.
Inspired your faves to wanna be a great MC.
He never was in this for the money.
It’s always been for the love of music.”
Drake has not commented on the halftime decision.
His deep love for hip-hop and culture informs his artistic vision.
He has an unparalleled ability to define and influence culture globally.
Kendrick’s work transcends music, and his impact will be felt for years to come."
A representative for Lil Wayne didn’t immediately respond toEntertainment Weekly’s request for further comment.
Super Bowl LIX is set to take place Feb. 9, 2025.
