The Super Bowl is more than just a football championship; it’s become a cultural event where music takes center stage during the halftime show. As Bad Bunny prepares to headline Super Bowl LX in 2026, facing mixed reactions from fans and critics alike, it’s a good time to revisit the legacy of artists who’ve graced the world’s most-watched stage.
The Rise of the Halftime Show
Initially, the Super Bowl halftime show was a low-key affair with marching bands and local performers. Over time, the NFL realized the massive viewership potential of bringing in major musicians. This shift turned the halftime show into a spectacle rivaling the game itself, drawing upwards of 100 million viewers annually. The stakes are high, with each performer aiming to deliver an unforgettable performance that will be dissected and discussed for weeks after.
Iconic Performances Through the Years
From Michael Jackson to Beyoncé, the Super Bowl halftime show has hosted some of music’s biggest names. Some of the most notable acts include:
- 1993: Michael Jackson
- 1996: Diana Ross
- 2000: Phil Collins, Christina Aguilera, Enrique Iglesias, Toni Braxton
- 2001: Aerosmith, ‘N Sync, Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige, Nelly
- 2002: U2
- 2003: Shania Twain, No Doubt, Sting
- 2004: Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake (controversial performance)
- 2005: Paul McCartney
- 2006: The Rolling Stones
- 2007: Prince
- 2008: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- 2009: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band
- 2010: The Who
- 2011: The Black Eyed Peas
- 2012: Madonna
- 2013: Beyoncé, Destiny’s Child
- 2014: Bruno Mars, Red Hot Chili Peppers
- 2015: Katy Perry, Lenny Kravitz
- 2016: Coldplay, Beyoncé, Bruno Mars
- 2017: Lady Gaga
- 2018: Justin Timberlake
- 2019: Maroon 5, Travis Scott, Big Boi
- 2020: Jennifer Lopez, Shakira
- 2021: The Weeknd
- 2022: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar
- 2023: Rihanna
- 2024: Usher
- 2025: TBD
- 2026: Bad Bunny
The Cultural Impact
The Super Bowl halftime show isn’t just about entertainment; it’s a cultural moment. Performers often use the platform to make statements, whether through song choices, choreography, or guest appearances. The performances generate massive social media buzz and often boost the artist’s career. The show has also faced controversy, such as the infamous “wardrobe malfunction” during Janet Jackson’s 2004 performance, which led to stricter broadcast standards.
