For decades, the Super Bowl has been one of the most watched and loved sporting events across the world, and for good reason. The second Sunday of February has long promised fans an evening of action, twists, and spectacle.
In recent years, particularly, a large part of this excitement has come down to the halftime shows, where artists get the chance to fire up the crowd and put on an electrifying show.
So, whether you’re looking for something different in the NFL betting or want to build anticipation for the event, let’s look over the best Super Bowl halftime shows so far.
Coldplay, Beyoncé, and Bruno Mars (2016)
This energetic trio took over the 2016 halftime show, where Coldplay’s euphoric melodies combined with Beyoncé’s aura and Bruno Mars’s funk delivered a show to remember. From the crowd singing along to “Yellow” to the unforgettable collaboration of “Uptown Funk” and “Formation,” this performance was a huge spectacle.
Paul McCartney (2005)
Starting off our list is the living legend, Paul McCartney, who delivered a fantastic 2005 halftime show that celebrated his timeless hits and showcased how his music continues to unite generations. The sky lit up with fireworks as he performed “Live and Let Die”, before the whole stadium shined their flashlights and sang along to “Hey Jude”.
Rihanna (2023)
Rihanna made her long-awaited return to music on the stage of the 2023 Super Bowl. Singing her greatest hits atop a levitating stage – including “We Found Love”, “Work”, and “Diamonds” – her effortless star power was propelled even further with her touching pregnancy reveal.
Michael Jackson (1993)
Michael Jackson was the artist who redefined the Super Bowl halftime show in 1993. His incredible performance transformed the halftime shows from simple time-fillers into a must-see entertainment event. With legendary hits like “Billie Jean” and “Heal the World,” he let his unmatched showmanship and talent take centre stage, and established a new benchmark for halftime performances.
U2 (2002)
The first Super Bowl since the 9/11 tragedy had U2 headline the halftime show in 2002. As such, the band delivered a poignant tribute that resonated deeply with the audience. With hits like “Beautiful Day” and a heartfelt tribute to the victims, the performance offered a moment of healing and reflection for the nation.
Beyoncé (2013)
Beyoncé’s debut halftime show was in 2013, and it remains one of her most celebrated performances of all time. Not only did she ignite the stadium with her powerhouse vocals, but she brought out her former Destiny’s Child sisters, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams, for an empowering reunion.
Dr. Dre & Friends (2022)
Dr. Dre’s 2022 halftime show was a huge moment for both Super Bowl and hip-hop culture. He brought out legends like Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, and 50 Cent to deliver some incredible moments. Some of the best include Dr. Dre introducing “Still D.R.E.” on the piano and 50 Cent recreating his “In Da Club” video by hanging upside down.
Prince (2007)
Prince took to the stage in 2007 for a performance that many hail as the greatest halftime show of all time. His guitar melodies and stage presence were pure magic, and his exceptional skills shone through with hits like “Let’s Go Crazy” and “1999”. The iconic and defining moment came with the show-stopping rendition of “Purple Rain” in the pouring rain to close his show.
This year’s performance will see Grammy-winning rapper Kendrick Lamar take centre stage to entertain the crowd for the 15-minute halftime show. Here’s hoping that he brings a remarkable performance that may even find its place in the runnings of the greatest halftime shows in history.
