Top 10 Super Bowl Halftime Shows That Rocked the Stage
The Super Bowl halftime show has become a spectacle of its own, with artists pulling out all the stops to entertain millions of viewers worldwide. From legendary performances to unforgettable collaborations, here's a roundup of Super Bowl halftime shows that left us in awe.
Prince (Super Bowl XLI – 2007)
Who could forget Prince's electrifying halftime show in 2007? Taking the stage in pouring rain, the iconic artist delivered a mesmerizing performance that showcased his musical skill and stage presence.
With hits like “Purple Rain” and a guitar solo that became the stuff of legend, Prince's show is often hailed as one of the greatest in Super Bowl history.
Beyoncé (Super Bowl 50 – 2016)
Queen Bey took the stage by storm in 2016, performing a medley of her greatest hits. Beyoncé's flawless performance and powerful message garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying her status as a halftime show legend.
Michael Jackson (Super Bowl XXVII – 1993)
In 1993, Michael Jackson set the bar high with a performance that showed his unmatched talent as the King of Pop. The iconic entrance, pyrotechnics, and crowd engagement made it an incredible show. With hits like “Billie Jean” and “Black or White,” Jackson's halftime performance is one of the best in Super Bowl history.
Shakira and Jennifer Lopez (Super Bowl LIV – 2020)
The dynamic duo of Shakira and Jennifer Lopez brought the heat to Miami in 2020. The show was a celebration of Latin culture, featuring energetic dance routines and a surprise appearance by J.Lo's daughter. With chart-topping hits and a visually stunning set, this halftime show left an indelible mark on Super Bowl entertainment.
U2 (Super Bowl XXXVI – 2002)
In a poignant and emotionally charged performance, U2 took the stage just months after the 9/11 attacks. The band's rendition of “Where the Streets Have No Name” against a backdrop of names scrolling on a massive screen paid tribute to the victims, creating a powerful and unforgettable moment in Super Bowl halftime history.
Katy Perry (Super Bowl XLIX – 2015)
Katy Perry's halftime show in 2015 was a whimsical extravaganza featuring colorful visuals and larger-than-life props. From riding in on a giant mechanical lion to a surprise appearance by Left Shark, Perry's performance was a perfect blend of fun and spectacle that kept the audience captivated.
Bruno Mars (Super Bowl XLVIII – 2014)
Bruno Mars brought his A-game in 2014 with a high-energy performance of incredible vocal and dance skills. The inclusion of the Red Hot Chili Peppers added extra excitement, making it a halftime show that resonated with a diverse audience.
Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake (Super Bowl XXXVIII – 2004)
While the infamous “wardrobe malfunction” during this performance stole headlines, it shouldn't overshadow the talent on display. Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake's collaboration was a dynamic musical show, even if the clothing became one of the most talked-about moments in Super Bowl history.
The Rolling Stones (Super Bowl XL – 2006)
The Rolling Stones proved that rock and roll is timeless with their Super Bowl XL halftime show. Mick Jagger's electrifying stage presence and the band's classic hits rocked the stadium for this Super Bowl performance.
Coldplay, Beyoncé, and Bruno Mars (Super Bowl 50 – 2016)
The collaborative halftime show in 2016 featuring Coldplay, Beyoncé, and Bruno Mars was a masterclass in musical diversity. Each artist brought their unique style to the stage, creating a seamless and entertaining performance that showcased the breadth of talent in the music industry.
Rihanna (Super Bowl LVII – 2023)
Rihanna's return to live performances during the 2023 Super Bowl Halftime Show made history as the most-watched halftime performance of all time, as reported by Billboard magazine and an adjusted Nielsen report.
After a hiatus of more than five years, Rihanna's captivating performance on February 12 garnered an impressive 121.017 million viewers, surpassing the previous record held by Katy Perry's 2015 halftime show.
Rihanna's show stands at the pinnacle of Super Bowl halftime show viewership. Will Usher set a new record and become synonymous with these top Super Bowl halftime performances? As we eagerly await this year's spectacle, these iconic shows serve as a reminder of the power of music to unite and captivate audiences around the world.
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