Thanksgiving Day is a cherished occasion in the NFL calendar, blending themes of family, friendship, and festive gatherings with the excitement of professional football. This popular holiday showcases not only thrilling games but also performances from some of the world’s top musical talents.
Over the years, many notable artists, such as Creed, Destiny’s Child, Bon Jovi, and Mariah Carey, have graced the NFL’s Thanksgiving stage. Last year, Dolly Parton and Jack Harlow entertained fans in Dallas and Detroit, further elevating the holiday’s status as a significant musical event.
This year’s Thanksgiving matchup between the Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears will feature Shaboozey, an emerging star in the music scene. The Nigerian-American artist has made headlines in 2024, collaborating with Beyoncé on the album “Cowboy Carter” and receiving six Grammy nominations for his own acclaimed work, “Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going.”
Shaboozey’s halftime performance serves a dual purpose. Not only is he a rising musical sensation, but he also has a personal connection to football. Before becoming a renowned artist, he was a promising football player at Gar-Field Senior High School in Virginia. The unique story of how he adopted his stage name—derived from his challenging last name, Chibueze—adds a personal touch to his journey as a performer.
His rise in music coincides beautifully with his football roots; ESPN has even adopted his song “Last of My Kind” as the anthem for its ACC college football coverage. With hits like “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” resonating with sports fans, his performance at the Thanksgiving game is sure to enhance the celebration.
The Lions vs. Bears game is set to kick off at 12:30 p.m. ET, with Shaboozey expected to take the stage around 2 p.m. ET during halftime. Given the Lions’ dynamic gameplay, fans are encouraged to tune in a bit earlier in case the game unfolds at a brisk pace.
This Thanksgiving, as fans gather to celebrate and enjoy football, Shaboozey’s performance will contribute to the joyful spirit of the day, promising an entertaining and meaningful halftime show.