Who: Kendrick Lamar f. SZA

What: “All The Stars” 

When (was it released): 2017

Where (was it featured): Black Panther The Album Music From And Inspired By

Why (did the song happen): With To Pimp A Butterfly and DAMN., Kendrick Lamar earned the rare combination of near universal adulation from the rap community and the reverence of the greater musical industry. The TDE rapper was now a bona fide super star, an artist with a significant Grammy haul and ultimate respect among rap consumers. With this backdrop, director Ryan Coogler selected Kendrick Lamar to produce the soundtrack for his Black Panther film. The resulting 14-track collection features a number of songs by TDE acts, as well as notable performances from Vince Staples, Jorja Smith, and The Weeknd, among others. For the soundtrack’s centerpiece, Kendrick Lamar teamed with SZA and producers Sounwave and Al Shux.

How (it became iconic): A story based on strife within the mythical nation of Wakanda, Black Panther stands as an early example of black superheroes on the big screen and as a blockbuster success. It is the highest grossing film of all time by a black director with more than $1.3 billion earned worldwide. For “All The Stars,” producers Sounwave and Al Shux created a lush sonic tapestry with rising strings, comforting percussion, and an overall elegant vibe. Kendrick Lamar delivers a confrontational opening verse with lyrics that mirror the challenges Black Panther title character T’Challa experiences throughout the film. From there, SZA seizes center stage. She belts lines about the stars, about imagining that everything is worth the struggle she’s enduring. In a world where things often seem overwhelming, SZA sings with defiance and hope that everything will work out for the best. The song’s striking video features Kendrick Lamar and SZA in resplendent garb that reflects their powerful lyrics and pays tribute to the film when Kendrick Lamar walks with a pack of black panthers through a burnt forest. On a day in which Los Angeles will be on display for the world to see, Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “All The Stars” would make perfect sense to be a centerpiece of the Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show.