NEW YORK – Rapper Kendrick Lamar and pop superstar Lady Gaga opened the Grammy Awards (Jan 29 morning, Singapore) with immediate if understated political touches.

With a US flag in the backdrop, Lamar launched into a fierce rap at New York’s Madison Square Garden, on a stage full of dancers clad in camouflage.

The number then transformed into a frenetic, gongfu-inspired routine in which his troupe fell to the ground as if hit by bullets.

U2 frontman Bono emerged from behind him to join in their collaboration XXX., whose lyrics include: “America, God bless you if it’s good to you.”

Lady Gaga quickly followed Lamar by performing her songs Joanne and Million Reasons.

In a nod to the growing women’s movement against sexual abuse, the singer – who has spoken of being raped – whispered from the piano: “Time’s up.”