The recently aired documentary “California Love” gives a glimpse at the behind the scene work that made the Super Bowl Halftime show of 2022 unforgettable.
On that February day, Dr. Dre took the stage together with his loyal lieutenants: Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, and Eminem.
Of course, the brilliance of the show headliners is undeniable, but the scale and complexity of this type of event need a strong production team, outstanding musicians and dancers. That was what the documentary was focused on.
Anderson .Paak, who assumed the role of a drummer o that day, talked on camera about some challenges he faced. One of the most complex tasks was playing Eminem’s “Lose Yourself”. He said:
Eminem is another musical hero. When he and Dre got together they did something unique, something daring. I remember watching those videos and listening to this music. I’ve always loved this stuff.
With the drums on “Lose Yourself”, a lot of people might not pick it up on the intro, but he’s rapping on the bass and kick drum pattern. It’s really intricate, it’s not just a simple kick drum pattern. It’s got these different little variations that you have to syncope with. That was probably the hardest part, to memorise that.
It’s a very intense song. And you only get one shot. You can’t miss your chance to blow. The opportunity comes once in a lifetime, yo.
The conversational manner in which Anderson delivered these last sentences was hilarious but also emphasized that the message of a song is timeless. It was important 20 years ago, still relevant today, and will ring the truth 20 years later.
Watch the video below:
