As the hype builds for Super Bowl 60 set to take place next month in the Bay Area, the spotlight is once again shining brightly on the event’s highly anticipated musical performances. While the clash between the NFC and AFC champions is the core of the Super Bowl experience, the artistic showcases have increasingly captivated audiences, often generating as much buzz as the game itself.
This year’s halftime show will feature the internationally acclaimed artist Bad Bunny, who has taken the music industry by storm over the past decade. Known for his groundbreaking crossover appeal, Bad Bunny will be performing at the halftime show produced in collaboration with Apple Music and Roc Nation. The Puerto Rican rapper and singer, who is celebrated for his dynamic presence and engaging performances, made history by becoming the first solo Latino artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. His previous appearance during the 2020 halftime show alongside Shakira and Jennifer Lopez solidified his place in the cultural zeitgeist.
Controversy surrounds Bad Bunny’s selection as he has been an outspoken critic of former President Donald Trump. Trump himself has publicly labeled Bad Bunny’s inclusion as “absolutely ridiculous,” underscoring the intersection of politics and entertainment that often accompanies the Super Bowl. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell remarked on the perennial nature of such criticism when selecting high-profile entertainers, indicating that backlash is an expected part of the process.
Adding to the impressive lineup, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Charlie Puth is set to perform the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Known for hits like “See You Again,” “Attention,” and “One Call Away,” Puth’s ascent in the music scene has been marked by collaborations and chart-topping singles, making him a fitting choice for such a prestigious moment.
Brandi Carlile, another powerhouse performer, will lend her voice to “America, the Beautiful.” The multi-talented artist, who has garnered both Grammy and Emmy accolades, has a rich history of musicality across genres, resonating with a wide audience. Carlile has also been vocal regarding social issues, including her efforts to counter funding cuts to HIV/AIDS relief initiated by the previous administration.
Lastly, Coco Jones will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing” at the Super Bowl. The gifted singer and actress, recently recognized with a Grammy for her song “ICU,” has quickly become a beloved figure in the music industry. With her recent album “Why Not More?” up for multiple awards, Jones is poised to captivate audiences with her compelling sound and emotional performance.
As these artists prepare to take center stage, their performances will contribute to the ever-evolving narrative of the Super Bowl, where music, sports, and cultural commentary intertwine to create an unforgettable spectacle. The event promises not only to celebrate football but also to spotlight the powerful voices shaping today’s music landscape, reflecting a diverse array of backgrounds and perspectives.