MomSkoop
The Super Bowl halftime show has become just as important as the game itself. What started as simple marching bands has transformed into spectacular performances by the world’s biggest music stars. These iconic moments have created unforgettable memories, sparked conversations, and set new standards for live entertainment that continue to influence how we experience music today.
1. Michael Jackson – Super Bowl XXVII (1993)
Standing motionless for ninety seconds while the crowd roared, Michael Jackson created a moment of pure anticipation that nobody had ever seen at a halftime show before. His dramatic entrance set the tone for what would become the blueprint for modern Super Bowl performances.
Jackson delivered a medley of his biggest hits with precision choreography and stunning visual effects. The performance drew 133.4 million viewers, proving that halftime shows could rival the game itself in entertainment value.
From that moment forward, the NFL knew they needed superstars to headline this slot, transforming halftime entertainment forever and creating a cultural phenomenon that continues today.
2. Prince – Super Bowl XLI (2007)
When rain started pouring during Prince’s performance, many worried the show might be ruined. Instead, Prince asked organizers to make it rain harder, turning a potential disaster into pure magic. His silhouette against the giant screen during Purple Rain became one of the most breathtaking moments in halftime history.
Prince moved effortlessly through his catalog of hits while delivering flawless vocals despite the weather conditions. His guitar solo during Purple Rain felt deeply emotional and perfectly synchronized with nature’s drama.
Critics and fans alike consider this the greatest halftime performance ever, showcasing how a true artist can transform any challenge into triumph.
3. Shakira & Jennifer Lopez – Super Bowl LIV (2020)
Two Latin powerhouses joined forces to create a celebration of culture, music, and female empowerment that resonated far beyond the stadium. Shakira’s hip-shaking moves and J.Lo’s pole-dancing athleticism showcased their incredible talents while honoring their heritage with pride and passion.
The performance featured a stunning medley including Hips Don’t Lie, Jenny from the Block, and Let’s Get Loud. Children appeared onstage in symbolic cages during Born in the U.S.A., making a powerful statement about immigration.
4. Lady Gaga – Super Bowl LI (2017)
Lady Gaga began her performance by leaping from the stadium roof, suspended by wires as hundreds of drones created an American flag in the sky behind her. This breathtaking entrance immediately captured everyone’s attention and set expectations impossibly high.
She delivered a medley spanning her entire career while executing complex choreography and never missing a single note. Her performance subtly included messages of unity and acceptance without being preachy or divisive.
Gaga proved her theatrical background and vocal versatility made her perfect for this massive stage, earning widespread critical acclaim and demonstrating that halftime shows could blend spectacle with genuine artistry.
5. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar – Super Bowl LVI (2022)
Hip-hop finally received its proper Super Bowl spotlight when five legendary artists took over SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. The elaborate stage design recreated iconic LA neighborhoods, paying homage to West Coast rap culture that shaped modern music for decades.
Each artist brought their signature style while seamlessly transitioning between classic hits like Still D.R.E., California Love, and Lose Yourself. Eminem took a knee during his performance, making a statement that sparked conversation.
The show earned an Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special, validating hip-hop’s place in mainstream entertainment and proving that diverse musical genres deserve equal representation on this prestigious stage.
6. Rihanna – Super Bowl LVII (2023)
After seven years away from music, Rihanna returned to the stage in the most spectacular way possible. Her pregnancy reveal during the performance became an instant viral moment, with fans immediately noticing her baby bump and celebrating this personal announcement.
Unlike previous shows filled with elaborate staging, Rihanna kept things relatively simple, letting her voice and presence carry the performance. She moved across floating platforms while performing hits like Diamonds, Work, and Umbrella with effortless confidence.
7. Coldplay, Beyoncé & Bruno Mars – Super Bowl 50 (2016)
Coldplay headlined this milestone fiftieth Super Bowl with their signature colorful, uplifting style that filled the stadium with rainbows and flowers. Lead singer Chris Martin’s energy brought warmth to the performance, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
Bruno Mars surprised everyone by returning to perform Uptown Funk with his dancers, bringing incredible energy and smooth moves. Then Beyoncé joined for Formation, creating an unforgettable three-way collaboration.
This collaboration proved that blending different musical styles and generations could create something truly special and inclusive.
8. Usher – Super Bowl LVIII (2024)
Usher brought Las Vegas glamour and smooth R&B vibes to Allegiant Stadium with a performance that felt like a masterclass in entertainment. His impeccable dance moves and nostalgic hits transported fans back through his incredible career spanning over two decades.
Guest appearances from Alicia Keys, H.E.R., will.i.am, Lil Jon, and Ludacris added excitement throughout the show. Roller skaters glided across the stage during Yeah!, creating a visual spectacle that matched the song’s energy perfectly.
Usher’s performance reminded everyone why he’s called the King of R&B, delivering smooth vocals and tight choreography that resonated with multiple generations of fans who grew up loving his music.
9. Kendrick Lamar – Super Bowl LIX (2025)
Kendrick Lamar made history by delivering the most-watched halftime show ever recorded, cementing his status as one of hip-hop’s greatest artists. His lyrical prowess and commanding stage presence captivated audiences both in the stadium and watching from home worldwide.
A guest appearance by SZA added emotional depth to the performance, showcasing their incredible chemistry and musical connection.
Kendrick’s setlist included powerful tracks that highlighted his storytelling ability and social consciousness. The New Orleans setting added cultural significance to an already momentous occasion. His performance proved that authentic artistry and meaningful lyrics can reach massive audiences, inspiring future generations of performers to stay true to their vision.
10. Janet Jackson & Justin Timberlake – Super Bowl XXXVIII (2004)
This performance became one of the most talked-about moments in television history for reasons nobody expected. The infamous wardrobe malfunction during the final seconds sparked nationwide debate about broadcast standards and live television boundaries.
Beyond the controversy, the performance featured impressive choreography, multiple costume changes, and high-energy renditions of their hits. Kid Rock, P. Diddy, and Nelly also appeared during the show. The incident led to significant changes in broadcast delays and FCC regulations.
While controversial, this moment forced important conversations about performance art, censorship, and how society views female performers differently from their male counterparts in the entertainment industry.
11. The Weeknd – Super Bowl LV (2021)
The Weeknd invested seven million dollars of his own money to create an immersive experience that blurred the lines between reality and performance art. His use of the stadium’s interior spaces, including tunnels and mirrored rooms, created disorienting visual effects that matched his music’s dark atmosphere perfectly.
Bandaged dancers moved in synchronized formations, referencing his album’s aesthetic and creating unforgettable imagery. Despite performing during the pandemic with limited audience capacity, The Weeknd delivered an intimate yet grand performance.