Super Bowl Halftime Show
Super Bowl halftime shows, definitively ranked from worst to best
Melissa RuggieriJan. 28, 2026Updated Feb. 9, 2026, 3:37 p.m. ET
Often referred to as the world's biggest stage, the Super Bowl halftime show can draw upwards of 100 million viewers. But the game-break entertainment wasn’t always the pop culture spectacle it is today. Before Michael Jackson’s 1993 performance, it was mostly marching bands and performance ensembles taking the field.
As the world gears up for Bad Bunny’s Feb. 8 performance, we look back at the headliners that helped turn halftime into a full-blown extravaganza. And because the Super Bowl calls for competition, we’re ranking the performances from worst to best, starting with Maroon 5 in 2019.
The controversy between the NFL and player's protesting social justice meant most artists turned down performing at the 2019 Super Bowl in Atlanta. Maroon 5 (singer Adam Levine, left) was announced only a couple of weeks before the game and the band could only recruit hometown rappers Big Boi (center) and Sleepy Brown (right) to join them. Travis Scott was also a late add after he negotiated a donation from the NFL to a social justice cause.
Mark J. Rebilas, Imagn ImagesAs the world gears up for Bad Bunny’s Feb. 8 performance, we look back at the headliners that helped turn halftime into a full-blown extravaganza. And because the Super Bowl calls for competition, we’re ranking the performances from worst to best, starting with Maroon 5 in 2019.
The controversy between the NFL and player's protesting social justice meant most artists turned down performing at the 2019 Super Bowl in Atlanta. Maroon 5 (singer Adam Levine, left) was announced only a couple of weeks before the game and the band could only recruit hometown rappers Big Boi (center) and Sleepy Brown (right) to join them. Travis Scott was also a late add after he negotiated a donation from the NFL to a social justice cause.
The Black Eyed Peas (2011)
After a stretch of classic rock superstars playing halftime - Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones and The Who among them - a new producer was enlisted in 2011 to inject the production with freshness. Instead, we got The Black Eyes Peas. Though at least cameos by Slash and Usher were watchable. Photo by Greg Pearson, USA TODAY.
Greg Pearson, USA TODAY NetworkAfter a stretch of classic rock superstars playing halftime - Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones and The Who among them - a new producer was enlisted in 2011 to inject the production with freshness. Instead, we got The Black Eyes Peas. Though at least cameos by Slash and Usher were watchable. Photo by Greg Pearson, USA TODAY.
Clint Black, Tanya Tucker, Travis Tritt, The Judds (1994)
One of the first halftime performances to offer a conglomerate of artists, this grouping was billed as "Rockin' Country Sunday" when it landed at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta in 1994. The performance ended with a group singalong to The Judds' "Love Can Build a Bridge."
James D. Smith, IMAGN IMAGES Via Reuters ConnectOne of the first halftime performances to offer a conglomerate of artists, this grouping was billed as "Rockin' Country Sunday" when it landed at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta in 1994. The performance ended with a group singalong to The Judds' "Love Can Build a Bridge."
The Blues Brothers, ZZ Top, James Brown (1997)
On paper, putting The Blues Brothers, James Brown and ZZ Top on the same stage held intriguing possibilities. Instead, the 1997 "Blues Brothers Bash" in New Orleans was a mishmash of disparate styles that seemed born out of a marketing meeting.
Al Bello, Getty ImagesOn paper, putting The Blues Brothers, James Brown and ZZ Top on the same stage held intriguing possibilities. Instead, the 1997 "Blues Brothers Bash" in New Orleans was a mishmash of disparate styles that seemed born out of a marketing meeting.
Patti LaBelle, Tony Bennett, Arturo Sandoval and Miami Sound Machine (1995)
Produced by The Walt Disney Company, sponsored by Doritos and dubbed "Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Forbidden Eye," how did this 1995 halftime show in Miami stand a chance? The talent was there in Tony Bennett, Patti LaBelle and the Miami Sound Machine. The logic was not.
RVR Photos, Imagn ImagesProduced by The Walt Disney Company, sponsored by Doritos and dubbed "Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Forbidden Eye," how did this 1995 halftime show in Miami stand a chance? The talent was there in Tony Bennett, Patti LaBelle and the Miami Sound Machine. The logic was not.
Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Kid Rock, Nelly, P. Diddy, Jessica Simpson (2004)
Oh, Nipplegate. You will never be forgotten. After Justin Timberlake accidentally exposed a glimpse of Janet Jackson's breast to the world in Houston in 2004, who could remember that Nelly, Kid Rock, Jessica Simpson and - ahem - P. Diddy were also part of the spectacle? Neither will most recall the spectacular game, when the New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers with a last-second field goal.
Elsa, Getty ImagesOh, Nipplegate. You will never be forgotten. After Justin Timberlake accidentally exposed a glimpse of Janet Jackson's breast to the world in Houston in 2004, who could remember that Nelly, Kid Rock, Jessica Simpson and - ahem - P. Diddy were also part of the spectacle? Neither will most recall the spectacular game, when the New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers with a last-second field goal.
Phil Collins, Christina Aguilera, Enrique Iglesias, Toni Braxton (2000)
In Atlanta in 2000, another Disney production, this one dubbed "Tapestry of Nations," teamed Phil Collins singing a song from the "Tarzan" soundtrack - no, not the good one, something called "Two Worlds" - with Christina Aguilera, Enrique Iglesias and Toni Braxton, apparently there as ambassadors of other "nations."
Brian Bahr, Getty ImagesIn Atlanta in 2000, another Disney production, this one dubbed "Tapestry of Nations," teamed Phil Collins singing a song from the "Tarzan" soundtrack - no, not the good one, something called "Two Worlds" - with Christina Aguilera, Enrique Iglesias and Toni Braxton, apparently there as ambassadors of other "nations."
Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, Martha Reeves, Boyz II Men, Queen Latifah (1998)
The "Salute to Motown's 40th Anniversary" in San Diego boasted Smokey Robinson, Martha Reeves (pictured) and The Temptations. But shoehorning Boyz II Men and Queen Latifah in to add a contemporary flair was the definition of unnecessary.
DOUG COLLIER, AFP Via Getty ImagesThe "Salute to Motown's 40th Anniversary" in San Diego boasted Smokey Robinson, Martha Reeves (pictured) and The Temptations. But shoehorning Boyz II Men and Queen Latifah in to add a contemporary flair was the definition of unnecessary.
Gloria Estefan, Stevie Wonder, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (1999)
Another forced fusion of artists - Gloria Estefan, Stevie Wonder, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and dancer Savion Glover - shared in this "Celebration of Soul, Salsa and Swing" in Miami in 1999. At least fans could enjoy the unlikely pairing of Estefan and Wonder on a mashup of her "You'll Be Mine (Party Time)" and his "My Cherie Amour."
TIMOTHY A. CLARY, AFP Via Getty ImagesAnother forced fusion of artists - Gloria Estefan, Stevie Wonder, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and dancer Savion Glover - shared in this "Celebration of Soul, Salsa and Swing" in Miami in 1999. At least fans could enjoy the unlikely pairing of Estefan and Wonder on a mashup of her "You'll Be Mine (Party Time)" and his "My Cherie Amour."
Shania Twain, No Doubt, Sting (2003)
Shania Twain was ostensibly the headliner for the 2003 halftime show in San Diego, but was suitably upstaged by Gwen Stefani and Sting. Her torso, his hips, a tradeoff of lyrics on The Police classic "Message in a Bottle" ... it's no doubt why Stefani went solo the following year.
Doug Pensinger, Getty ImagesShania Twain was ostensibly the headliner for the 2003 halftime show in San Diego, but was suitably upstaged by Gwen Stefani and Sting. Her torso, his hips, a tradeoff of lyrics on The Police classic "Message in a Bottle" ... it's no doubt why Stefani went solo the following year.
The Weeknd (2021)
Cut The Weeknd some slack for having to stage his grand production - naturally a highlight of any artist's career - in an empty Tampa stadium in 2021 as pandemic fallout continued. His medley that included "Can't Feel My Face," "Save Your Tears" and "Blinding Lights" - set amid a dance troop in bandaged faces - occasionally dazzled, but mostly left him looking like a third-rate Michael Jackson.
Mark J. Rebilas, Imagn ImagesCut The Weeknd some slack for having to stage his grand production - naturally a highlight of any artist's career - in an empty Tampa stadium in 2021 as pandemic fallout continued. His medley that included "Can't Feel My Face," "Save Your Tears" and "Blinding Lights" - set amid a dance troop in bandaged faces - occasionally dazzled, but mostly left him looking like a third-rate Michael Jackson.
Justin Timberlake (2018)
At least Justin Timberlake had the sense to pay homage to Prince while performing at the Minneapolis Super Bowl in 2018, almost two years after the icon died. Some viewers were enraged that Timberlake, long positioned as the villain in Nipplegate with Janet Jackson, was being rewarded with a solo spotlight. Others thought his appearance would equate to an NSYNC reunion. Instead, we were bored by then-new track "Filthy," a limping "SexyBack" and a finale filled with Timberlake taking selfies with the crowd during "Can't Stop the Feeling." Yawn.
Matthew Emmons, Imagn ImagesAt least Justin Timberlake had the sense to pay homage to Prince while performing at the Minneapolis Super Bowl in 2018, almost two years after the icon died. Some viewers were enraged that Timberlake, long positioned as the villain in Nipplegate with Janet Jackson, was being rewarded with a solo spotlight. Others thought his appearance would equate to an NSYNC reunion. Instead, we were bored by then-new track "Filthy," a limping "SexyBack" and a finale filled with Timberlake taking selfies with the crowd during "Can't Stop the Feeling." Yawn.
Bruno Mars with special guests Red Hot Chili Peppers (2014)
No one can deny that Bruno Mars is a preeminent entertainer. And the Red Hot Chili Peppers bring energy, if nothing else, to a stage. But throwing the California band with a predilection for shirtless-ness alongside the Vegas-styled Mars in New Jersey in 2014 for one song ("Give it Away") was another big swing and miss.
Matthew Emmons, Imagn ImagesNo one can deny that Bruno Mars is a preeminent entertainer. And the Red Hot Chili Peppers bring energy, if nothing else, to a stage. But throwing the California band with a predilection for shirtless-ness alongside the Vegas-styled Mars in New Jersey in 2014 for one song ("Give it Away") was another big swing and miss.
Coldplay, guest appearances from Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, Mark Ronson (2016)
Coldplay is one of the most popular global acts, yet for some reason, the producers of the then-Pepsi Halftime Show in 2016 thought Chris Martin and mates didn't deserve the stage in Santa Clara, California, alone. Nothing like crowding out talent by asking Beyoncé and Bruno Mars (and Mark Ronson) to join Coldplay for an unholy mélange of "Viva La Vida," "Uptown Funk" and "Formation."
Kirby Lee, Imagn ImagesColdplay is one of the most popular global acts, yet for some reason, the producers of the then-Pepsi Halftime Show in 2016 thought Chris Martin and mates didn't deserve the stage in Santa Clara, California, alone. Nothing like crowding out talent by asking Beyoncé and Bruno Mars (and Mark Ronson) to join Coldplay for an unholy mélange of "Viva La Vida," "Uptown Funk" and "Formation."
Aerosmith, NSYNC, guest appearances from Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige and Nelly (2001)
Though it could have had a more clever name than "The Kings of Rock and Pop," this bizarro world mixture of Aerosmith and NSYNC, later joined by Britney Spears - with a tube sock on one arm that became legend - Nelly and Mary J. Blige for a finale of "Walk This Way" was brought to us by, of course, MTV. The city of Tampa is still chuckling at the absurdity of the spectacle, even though it was in 2001.
Doug Pensinger, Getty ImagesThough it could have had a more clever name than "The Kings of Rock and Pop," this bizarro world mixture of Aerosmith and NSYNC, later joined by Britney Spears - with a tube sock on one arm that became legend - Nelly and Mary J. Blige for a finale of "Walk This Way" was brought to us by, of course, MTV. The city of Tampa is still chuckling at the absurdity of the spectacle, even though it was in 2001.
Rihanna (2023)
Rihanna was nothing but class as she hovered on a futurist-styled platform in a striking red jumpsuit to belt more than a dozen hits from her formidable catalog including snippets of "Where Have You Been" and "Only Girl (In the World)" and a fireworks display during "We Found Love." But while fans in the Glendale, Arizona, stadium in 2023 might not have noticed, those watching on TV were given a sly glimpse at the baby bump Rihanna had zipped under her jumpsuit.
Bill Streicher, Imagn ImagesRihanna was nothing but class as she hovered on a futurist-styled platform in a striking red jumpsuit to belt more than a dozen hits from her formidable catalog including snippets of "Where Have You Been" and "Only Girl (In the World)" and a fireworks display during "We Found Love." But while fans in the Glendale, Arizona, stadium in 2023 might not have noticed, those watching on TV were given a sly glimpse at the baby bump Rihanna had zipped under her jumpsuit.
The Who (2010)
No classic rock fan would complain about seeing and hearing Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend wallop muscular anthems including "Baba O'Riley" and "Won't Get Fooled Again," but, for better or worse, the band's 2010 performance in Miami closed the door on the string of veteran rockers headlining halftime.
Matt Kryger, USA TODAY NetworkNo classic rock fan would complain about seeing and hearing Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend wallop muscular anthems including "Baba O'Riley" and "Won't Get Fooled Again," but, for better or worse, the band's 2010 performance in Miami closed the door on the string of veteran rockers headlining halftime.
Usher, guest appearances from Alicia Keys, Jermaine Dupri, H.E.R., Lil Jon, Ludacris,will.i.am (2024)
Usher is a consummate showman with a 25-year hit list. He brought suitable razzle dazzle to a show set in Las Vegas in 2024 - fur coats! Roller skates! - but as is all too common with these productions, myriad guest stars dimmed his light. Some performers among the cameos from Alicia Keys, H.E.R., will.i.am, Lil Jon and Ludacris nodded to his Atlanta roots. But mostly they bogged down a set that only needed its charismatic leader.
Kirby Lee, Imagn ImagesUsher is a consummate showman with a 25-year hit list. He brought suitable razzle dazzle to a show set in Las Vegas in 2024 - fur coats! Roller skates! - but as is all too common with these productions, myriad guest stars dimmed his light. Some performers among the cameos from Alicia Keys, H.E.R., will.i.am, Lil Jon and Ludacris nodded to his Atlanta roots. But mostly they bogged down a set that only needed its charismatic leader.
Madonna, guest appearances from Nicki Minaj, M.I.A., Cee Lo Green, LMFAO (2012)
Madonna fans clamored for years to anoint their queen worthy of a halftime show. And Madonna certainly didn't need the career boost in 2012 when she finally hit that stage in Indianapolis. The decision to pair her with Cee Lo Green for "Express Yourself" and "Like A Prayer" was brilliant. But Nicki Minaj, M.I.A. - who stole headlines because of her brief bird-flipping - and LMFAO (seriously) had no business being in the same zip code as Madonna.
Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAYMadonna fans clamored for years to anoint their queen worthy of a halftime show. And Madonna certainly didn't need the career boost in 2012 when she finally hit that stage in Indianapolis. The decision to pair her with Cee Lo Green for "Express Yourself" and "Like A Prayer" was brilliant. But Nicki Minaj, M.I.A. - who stole headlines because of her brief bird-flipping - and LMFAO (seriously) had no business being in the same zip code as Madonna.
Kendrick Lamar, guest appearances from Samuel L. Jackson, SZA, Serena Williams, DJ Mustard (2025)
Kendrick Lamar is one of the most lauded hip-hop stars in history and his thoughtful production in New Orleans in 2025 defied conventions, dazzled with metaphoric wordplay and jabbed the ears of those who scowled at the idea of a rapper headlining solo. His inclusion of Samuel L. Jackson subtly nodded to politics, longtime pal SZA was his perfect duet foil and Serena Williams' appearance was another clever dig at archrival Drake.
Mark J. Rebilas, Imagn ImagesKendrick Lamar is one of the most lauded hip-hop stars in history and his thoughtful production in New Orleans in 2025 defied conventions, dazzled with metaphoric wordplay and jabbed the ears of those who scowled at the idea of a rapper headlining solo. His inclusion of Samuel L. Jackson subtly nodded to politics, longtime pal SZA was his perfect duet foil and Serena Williams' appearance was another clever dig at archrival Drake.
Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, guest appearances from 50 Cent, Anderson .Paak (2022)
From Mary J. Blige's confirmation as one of music's undisputed queens ("Family Affair") to Eminem's loquacious rumblings ("Lose Yourself"), rap arrived at Inglewood's SoFi Stadium in potent fashion in 2022. The rest of this all-star cast – California natives Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar and the emperor among them, Dr. Dre – rolled through liquid rhymes ("California Love," "Still D.R.E") with cool precision.
Albert Cesare, The Enquirer Via USA TODAY NetworkFrom Mary J. Blige's confirmation as one of music's undisputed queens ("Family Affair") to Eminem's loquacious rumblings ("Lose Yourself"), rap arrived at Inglewood's SoFi Stadium in potent fashion in 2022. The rest of this all-star cast – California natives Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar and the emperor among them, Dr. Dre – rolled through liquid rhymes ("California Love," "Still D.R.E") with cool precision.
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers (2008)
Though following Prince's legendary performance in 2007 was an unenviable task, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers riveted with the simplicity of their meaty rock classics. A four-song set bracketed by "American Girl" and "Runnin' Down a Dream" and played in full was all anyone needed for their 2008 performance in Glendale, Arizona.
David Kadlubowski, The Arizona Republic Via USA TODAY NetworkThough following Prince's legendary performance in 2007 was an unenviable task, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers riveted with the simplicity of their meaty rock classics. A four-song set bracketed by "American Girl" and "Runnin' Down a Dream" and played in full was all anyone needed for their 2008 performance in Glendale, Arizona.
Katy Perry, guest appearances from Lenny Kravitz, Missy Elliott (2015)
Katy Perry might not love the fact that anyone who recalls her 2015 show in Glendale, Arizona, immediately thinks "Left Shark!" and not "I Kissed a Girl" or "Roar." Nor do they necessarily remember she was joined by Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliott. But hey, that's showbiz.
Kirby Lee/Imagn ImagesKaty Perry might not love the fact that anyone who recalls her 2015 show in Glendale, Arizona, immediately thinks "Left Shark!" and not "I Kissed a Girl" or "Roar." Nor do they necessarily remember she was joined by Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliott. But hey, that's showbiz.
Beyoncé, guest appearance from Destiny’s Child (2013)
It was, inarguably, a reunion that sent shockwaves around the world. In 2013, Beyoncé was a bona fide solo superstar and her performance of "Love on Top" and "Crazy in Love" was incendiary. But when her Destiny's Child mates - Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams - joined her in New Orleans for a medley of old hits including "Bootylicious," it was a memorable, smile-worthy affair.
Matthew Emmons, Imagn ImagesIt was, inarguably, a reunion that sent shockwaves around the world. In 2013, Beyoncé was a bona fide solo superstar and her performance of "Love on Top" and "Crazy in Love" was incendiary. But when her Destiny's Child mates - Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams - joined her in New Orleans for a medley of old hits including "Bootylicious," it was a memorable, smile-worthy affair.
Diana Ross (1996)
It wasn't the way she arrived at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona, in 1996, but the way that she departed that still ranks as legendary, even by Diana Ross' standards. Following a blissful medley of Supremes hits ("Baby Love," "Stop in the Name of Love") and solo smashes ("Ain't No Mountain High Enough"), Ross took her "Take Me Higher" hit literally and hopped aboard a helicopter to whisk her off the field.
Rob Schumacher/The RepublicIt wasn't the way she arrived at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona, in 1996, but the way that she departed that still ranks as legendary, even by Diana Ross' standards. Following a blissful medley of Supremes hits ("Baby Love," "Stop in the Name of Love") and solo smashes ("Ain't No Mountain High Enough"), Ross took her "Take Me Higher" hit literally and hopped aboard a helicopter to whisk her off the field.
Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band (2009)
Much like Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band also relied on their non-gimmicky muscular rock classics including "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out," "Born to Run" and "Glory Days," unleashed with fist-pumping perfection in Tampa in 2009.
The stage-sliding antics of Springsteen added an amusing footnote to their performance when a camera angled a bit too directly at his crotch.
Michael Chow, USA TODAY NetworkMuch like Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band also relied on their non-gimmicky muscular rock classics including "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out," "Born to Run" and "Glory Days," unleashed with fist-pumping perfection in Tampa in 2009.
The stage-sliding antics of Springsteen added an amusing footnote to their performance when a camera angled a bit too directly at his crotch.
Michael Jackson (1993)
Michael Jackson is widely credited as saving the Super Bowl halftime show from the cringefests of decades prior with Up with People and marching bands cluttering the field. His 1993 performance in Pasadena, California, was given the ridiculously excessive title "An Unprecedented Super Bowl Spectacular starring Michael Jackson." Except that it wasn't an exaggeration. Jackson's unparalleled showmanship during "Billie Jean," "Black or White" and "We Are the World" with a children's choir adding pathos literally set the stage for the future.
H. DARR BEISER, USA TODAYMichael Jackson is widely credited as saving the Super Bowl halftime show from the cringefests of decades prior with Up with People and marching bands cluttering the field. His 1993 performance in Pasadena, California, was given the ridiculously excessive title "An Unprecedented Super Bowl Spectacular starring Michael Jackson." Except that it wasn't an exaggeration. Jackson's unparalleled showmanship during "Billie Jean," "Black or White" and "We Are the World" with a children's choir adding pathos literally set the stage for the future.
Bad Bunny, guest appearances from Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin (2026)
Despite the hand-wringing about the biggest global star in the world at the time performing in Spanish, Bad Bunny delivered a production spectacle that included Lady Gaga, Ricky Martin, hordes of dancers and numerous shoutouts to the Americas at Levi's Stadium. And he did it all while paying deep tribute to his Puerto Rican roots with numerous cultural references. As the scoreboard behind him blared at the end of the Feb. 8 performance, "The only thing more powerful than hate is love."
Thearon W. Henderson, Getty ImagesDespite the hand-wringing about the biggest global star in the world at the time performing in Spanish, Bad Bunny delivered a production spectacle that included Lady Gaga, Ricky Martin, hordes of dancers and numerous shoutouts to the Americas at Levi's Stadium. And he did it all while paying deep tribute to his Puerto Rican roots with numerous cultural references. As the scoreboard behind him blared at the end of the Feb. 8 performance, "The only thing more powerful than hate is love."
The Rolling Stones (2006)
Sticking the Rolling Stones onstage in Detroit in 2006 might have been one of the easiest decisions halftime show producers ever made. There is no downside to watching Mick Jagger slither through "Start Me Up" or Keith Richards slashing his guitar during "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" and the Stones proved their iconic-ness once again.
ROMAIN BLANQUART, Detroit Free PressSticking the Rolling Stones onstage in Detroit in 2006 might have been one of the easiest decisions halftime show producers ever made. There is no downside to watching Mick Jagger slither through "Start Me Up" or Keith Richards slashing his guitar during "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" and the Stones proved their iconic-ness once again.
Paul McCartney (2005)
Following the Janet Jackson/Justin Timberlake PR disaster in 2004, panic set in and a new edict landed: Pop stars couldn't be trusted to behave, so dial up the veteran rock gods. Paul McCartney kicked off a six-year stretch of classic rock performers in Jacksonville in 2005, and no one was going to complain about seeing a Beatle singing "Get Back" and "Hey Jude."
ROBERTO SCHMIDT, AFP Via Getty ImagesFollowing the Janet Jackson/Justin Timberlake PR disaster in 2004, panic set in and a new edict landed: Pop stars couldn't be trusted to behave, so dial up the veteran rock gods. Paul McCartney kicked off a six-year stretch of classic rock performers in Jacksonville in 2005, and no one was going to complain about seeing a Beatle singing "Get Back" and "Hey Jude."
Shakira and Jennifer Lopez, guest appearances from Bad Bunny, J Balvin, Emme Muñiz (2020)
Those grousing about Bad Bunny landing the halftime slot in 2026 might want to think back all the way to 2020 when Colombia native Shakira and Puerto Rican princess Jennifer Lopez thoroughly riveted with a Spanglish set ("She Wolf" and “Chantaje" / "Callaíta" from Shakira and hey, Bad Bunny! "Love Don't Cost a Thing" / "Mi Gente" from Lopez and J Balvin). Their dancing took our breath away, their sexiness and strength would not be denied. This marked the first halftime show produced by Jay-Z/Roc Nation.
Mark J. Rebilas, Imagn ImagesThose grousing about Bad Bunny landing the halftime slot in 2026 might want to think back all the way to 2020 when Colombia native Shakira and Puerto Rican princess Jennifer Lopez thoroughly riveted with a Spanglish set ("She Wolf" and “Chantaje" / "Callaíta" from Shakira and hey, Bad Bunny! "Love Don't Cost a Thing" / "Mi Gente" from Lopez and J Balvin). Their dancing took our breath away, their sexiness and strength would not be denied. This marked the first halftime show produced by Jay-Z/Roc Nation.
Lady Gaga (2017)
While Diana Ross will be remembered for her exit, Lady Gaga offered a legendary entrance: Atop the NRG Stadium in Houston and clad in a David Bowie-esque space age leotard and stiletto boots, she belted “God Bless America” and “This Land is Your Land” and recited some of the Pledge of Allegiance before floating down into the stadium on wires. Her breathless romp in 2017 included "The Edge of Glory,” “Poker Face” and “Born This Way,” but the sweetest moment was when she shouted a hello to her parents during a breath-catching "Million Reasons."
Matthew Emmons, Imagn ImagesWhile Diana Ross will be remembered for her exit, Lady Gaga offered a legendary entrance: Atop the NRG Stadium in Houston and clad in a David Bowie-esque space age leotard and stiletto boots, she belted “God Bless America” and “This Land is Your Land” and recited some of the Pledge of Allegiance before floating down into the stadium on wires. Her breathless romp in 2017 included "The Edge of Glory,” “Poker Face” and “Born This Way,” but the sweetest moment was when she shouted a hello to her parents during a breath-catching "Million Reasons."
U2 (2002)
The country was hurting in 2002, barely five months since the Sept. 11 attacks. Leave it to a quartet of Irishmen to soothe our souls. "Beautiful Day" lifted spirits, but when the band launched into "Where the Streets Have No Name," Bono opened his jacket to display the American flag inside and a screen behind the band scrolled the name of every person who died in the tragedy ... no way there was a dry eye in the world.
JEFF HAYNES, AFP Via Getty ImagesThe country was hurting in 2002, barely five months since the Sept. 11 attacks. Leave it to a quartet of Irishmen to soothe our souls. "Beautiful Day" lifted spirits, but when the band launched into "Where the Streets Have No Name," Bono opened his jacket to display the American flag inside and a screen behind the band scrolled the name of every person who died in the tragedy ... no way there was a dry eye in the world.
Prince (2007)
As Prince roared through "Let's Go Crazy" and "Baby I'm a Star," he riveted. As he dug into Bob Dylan's "All Along the Watchtower" and Foo Fighters' "Best of You," he intrigued with his curious cover choices. And as a shower began to pelt the Miami crowd in 2007 and Prince strolled a stage designed in his signature symbol alighted in purple, he mesmerized with a breathtaking "Purple Rain." Simply the best.
Robert Deutsch, USA TODAYAs Prince roared through "Let's Go Crazy" and "Baby I'm a Star," he riveted. As he dug into Bob Dylan's "All Along the Watchtower" and Foo Fighters' "Best of You," he intrigued with his curious cover choices. And as a shower began to pelt the Miami crowd in 2007 and Prince strolled a stage designed in his signature symbol alighted in purple, he mesmerized with a breathtaking "Purple Rain." Simply the best.
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