Super Bowl LVI is upon us and Pepsi is building the hype for their halftime show. The lineup? A who’s-who of hip-hop, from the classics to the modern hits. Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, and Kendrick Lamar, all united by Dr. Dre. The ad follows each star as they receive the call and travel to the biggest stage on earth. 

The ad has one goal – hype. Pepsi feels no need to put a blue can in the celebrities’ hands, because their association with the halftime show is all they need. The excitement is generated through faithfully depicting what fans love about each star as they are featured. 

Eminem hits the screen first, as he frantically competes with a depiction of his past self, always striving to improve. Next up is Snoop Dogg, effortlessly cool. He drives down the highway in his lowrider, loving life in a relaxed way that only Snoop himself can exude. 

Mary J. Blige is introduced as living the enviable life, with flashing lights and fast cars. Her confidence and status inspires fans. Next is Kendrick Lamar, shown in a humble apartment endlessly writing. Kendrick’s simple clothes and honest grind are backed up by his hit “Humble”. Finally, there is Dr. Dre. His legendary status is cemented by keys rising from the ocean and playing that iconic intro from “Still Dre”.

Faithfully depicting what draws audiences to each artist is a masterful way of reminding those audiences exactly why they should be excited for halftime. Each of these stars has changed the landscape of hip hop, and now they share the stage to bring the world their message, which is conveniently sponsored by Pepsi. Halftime is almost upon us. Are you ready?