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Ranked: The 20 Best Super Bowl Halftime Shows
Explore the Super Bowl Halftime Shows of all time, featuring iconic performances by Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, and Prince.
The Super Bowl halftime show, a spectacle of music and entertainment, has evolved into one of the most anticipated performances globally.
From its humble beginnings with marching bands to the grandiose productions we see today, the halftime show has become a stage where legends are made, and history is written.
In this article, we explore the 20 best Super Bowl halftime shows of all time, celebrating the artists who left an indelible mark on the world's biggest sports stage.
20. The Weeknd (2021)
The Weeknd's Super Bowl LV performance was a cinematic journey, aligning with the narrative of his album "After Hours."
Investing $7 million of his own money, he aimed for a show that was both a personal vision and a cinematic experience for viewers at home.
Notably, he performed solo, a departure from the usual format of featuring multiple artists.
This choice was to maintain the integrity of the story he was telling.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, including performing to a half-empty stadium, his set included a visually stunning maze of lights and a troupe of dancers with bandaged faces, reflecting the aesthetics of his music videos.
The performance stood out for its creativity, choreography, and The Weeknd's vocal prowess, offering hits like "Blinding Lights" and "Can't Feel My Face".
19. Shania Twain, Sting, and No Doubt (2003)
This performance brought together a unique mix of artists, offering a blend of country, rock, and punk.
Shania Twain opened the show with her hit "Man! I Feel Like a Woman," setting a high-energy tone.
No Doubt followed, with Gwen Stefani's dynamic presence igniting the stage with "Just a Girl."
The performance reached a crescendo with Sting joining Stefani for a rendition of "Message in a Bottle," creating an unforgettable collaboration.
The show was memorable for its eclectic lineup and the seamless integration of different music styles, showcasing the artists' versatility and stage presence.
18. Tom Petty (2008)
Tom Petty's halftime show was a masterclass in simplicity and timeless appeal.
Eschewing the elaborate production values typical of Super Bowl performances, Petty focused on delivering his classic hits with the Heartbreakers.
"American Girl" and "Free Fallin'" were among the songs that resonated with the audience, demonstrating Petty's enduring legacy and the universal appeal of his music.
The performance was a testament to his craftsmanship as a musician and his ability to connect with fans across generations.
17. The Rolling Stones (2006)
In 2006, the legendary Rolling Stones graced the Super Bowl halftime stage, reminding everyone why they are rock royalty.
Their performance was a rock-solid showcase of their enduring talent, featuring hits like "Start Me Up" and "Satisfaction."
Mick Jagger's charisma was on full display as he danced and strutted across the stage, proving that age had no impact on his stage presence.
The band's set included iconic tracks that had the crowd on its feet, but the censorship underscored the tension between artistic expression and broadcast standards, leaving some fans feeling the performance was somewhat restrained.
However, they did blow the roof with that Super Bowl half time performance.
The audience sang along enthusiastically, making it a moment of pure rock and roll joy.
16. Coldplay, Beyoncé, and Bruno Mars (2016)
The halftime show in 2016 featured a star-studded lineup with Coldplay, Beyoncé, and Bruno Mars.
It was a vibrant and visually captivating spectacle.
Coldplay's performance opened with a colorful display and their hit "Viva la Vida."
However, it was Beyoncé and Bruno Mars who stole the show.
Beyoncé's performance of "Formation" was a defining moment that sparked conversations and applause.
Her dancers formed an "X" on the field, seemingly alluding to civil rights activist Malcolm X.
Bruno Mars brought his trademark energy to the stage with "Uptown Funk," engaging the audience with his charismatic presence.
The Half time show was a testament to the power of collaboration, blending different musical styles into a cohesive and memorable performance.
15. Lady Gaga (2017)
Lady Gaga's 2017 halftime show was a high-octane spectacle from start to finish.
Lady Gaga's 2017 halftime performance is renowned for its dramatic entrance, where she started on the roof of the stadium and descended onto the stage, Gaga delivered on expectations with her signature flair for the dramatic and vocal prowess.
Despite pre-recorded elements for safety, the opening stunt was a talking point, setting the tone for a show that balanced theatricality with musical talent.
Her setlist included a mix of her biggest hits, such as "Poker Face," "Born This Way," and "Bad Romance," each performed with the high energy and commitment to character that Gaga is known for.
The show was a visual and musical feast, celebrated for its inclusivity and the powerful messages within her songs.
Critics and fans alike praised Gaga for a performance that managed to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, emphasizing the importance of unity and self-acceptance.
But was definetely a power packed performance.
14. Bruno Mars and Red Hot Chili Peppers (2014)
Bruno Mars, alongside the Red Hot Chili Peppers, provided a halftime show for Super Bowl XLVIII that seamlessly blended pop and rock, offering a performance that appealed to a wide range of viewers.
Mars opened the show with a showcase of his drumming skills before diving into his hits "Locked Out of Heaven" and "Treasure," all performed with high energy and coordinated dance moves reminiscent of James Brown.
The energy levels surged when the Red Hot Chili Peppers took the stage to perform "Give It Away," creating a memorable rock and pop fusion.
The performance, despite its high energy, stirred some controversy due to the Red Hot Chili Peppers playing along to a pre-recorded track, a common practice for Super Bowl performances but one that disappointed some fans seeking authenticity.
The show, however, was a ratings success, becoming one of the most-watched halftime shows at the time, signaling Mars' massive appeal and the enduring popularity of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
And is a delight to ears even now.
13. Madonna, LMFAO, Nicki Minaj, M.I.A., Cee Lo Green (2012)
Madonna's 2012 Super Bowl halftime show was an extravagant spectacle featuring guest appearances by LMFAO, Nicki Minaj, M.I.A., and Cee Lo Green.
The performance was a high-energy journey through Madonna's hits, combined with the contemporary flair of her guests.
The show was visually stunning, complete with elaborate choreography and lavish sets.
However, it was also marked by controversy due to M.I.A.'s unexpected gesture during her appearance.
Despite this, Madonna's show was praised for its ambition and her ability to command the stage, reinforcing her status as a pop icon.
The only word to describe this half time Super Bowl show is: Spectacular.
12. Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake (2004)
The 2004 halftime show featuring Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake is perhaps best remembered for the infamous "wardrobe malfunction."
However, it's essential to recognize the energy and talent that both artists brought to the stage.
Their performance was a mix of pop and R&B that set the stage for future shows.
Jackson's hits like "Rhythm Nation" and "All for You" showcased her iconic dance moves, while Timberlake's solo performance of "Rock Your Body" highlighted his vocal prowess.
Despite the controversy that followed, their Super Bowl halftime show demonstrated the power of music and entertainment in bringing people together, even in the face of unexpected mishaps.
11. Diana Ross (1996)
Diana Ross' 1996 performance stands out for its sheer star power and glamour.
Diana Ross' halftime show at the 1996 Super Bowl is remembered as one of the standout performances in Super Bowl history.
She made a grand entrance by descending onto the stage in a sparkling crane while shouting, "Come on, world!" The performance featured numerous backup dancers in red vests, adding to the spectacle.
The highlight of the show was undoubtedly the grand finale. Diana Ross announced, "Oh my, here comes my ride!" as a helicopter landed on the stage.
In a dramatic and unprecedented exit, the diva boarded the helicopter and flew away, leaving the audience in awe.
Ross performed a medley of her hits, showcasing her vocal prowess and stage presence.
This performance by Diana Ross is often regarded as one of the best halftime shows in Super Bowl history due to its extravagance and memorable moments.
10. Paul McCartney (2005)
In 2005, the Super Bowl halftime show featured a legend of rock and roll, Sir Paul McCartney.
The performance was a breath of fresh air, characterized by its wholesomeness and classic hits.
McCartney took the stage with his signature Hofner bass guitar and opened with the timeless ballad "Drive My Car."
The audience was immediately captivated by McCartney's presence and the nostalgia evoked by his music.
The standout moment of McCartney's performance came during his rendition of "Hey Jude."
As he sang the iconic chorus, the entire stadium joined in, creating a powerful and emotional sing-along moment that resonated with fans of all ages.
It showcased the unifying power of music and its ability to bring people together.
The performance served as a reminder of the enduring popularity of The Beatles' catalog and McCartney's status as one of the greatest songwriters in music history.
What made McCartney's show truly remarkable was its simplicity.
In an era when halftime shows often featured elaborate productions and guest appearances, McCartney relied solely on his musical prowess and the timelessness of his songs.
He demonstrated that great music transcends trends and gimmicks, McCartney's performance was a celebration of the enduring legacy of The Beatles and his own remarkable solo career, making it a standout moment in Super Bowl halftime history.
Paul McCartney's ability to connect with the audience through the simplicity of his music proves the power of his music, and the performance remains a cherished memory for fans of all generations.
9. Katy Perry and Missy Elliott (2015)
Katy Perry's halftime show in 2015 was a delightful spectacle of color, fantasy, and pop anthems.
She made a grand entrance by riding onto the field atop a giant lion, Perry's setlist included some of her biggest hits like "Roar," "Dark Horse," and "Teenage Dream."
The stage design was a fantastical wonderland with vibrant visuals and larger-than-life props.
One of the standout moments was Perry's performance of "Firework," during which she soared above the stadium, suspended by wires, creating a breathtaking display of fireworks in the night sky.
This aerial feat left the audience in awe and perfectly encapsulated the theme of the song.
Adding an exciting hip-hop twist to the show was the appearance of Missy Elliott.
The hip-hop icon performed her chart-toppers like "Get Ur Freak On" and "Work It," bringing a different energy to the halftime performance.
However, what truly made this halftime show unforgettable was the unexpected breakout star, "Left Shark."
One of Perry's backup dancers, dressed as a shark, delivered a comically off-beat performance during "Teenage Dream."
This quirky and endearing moment went viral on social media, quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon.
"Left Shark" became an internet sensation, symbolizing the joy and spontaneity of live performances.
Katy Perry's Super Bowl halftime show in 2015 was not just a visual extravaganza but also a nod to the power of pop culture.
8. Aerosmith, Britney Spears, 'NSync, Nelly (2001)
The Super Bowl XXXV halftime show took place on January 28, 2001, at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, as part of Super Bowl XXXV.
The show was titled "The Kings of Rock and Pop" and was headlined by Aerosmith and NSYNC.
It also featured appearances from Mary J. Blige, Britney Spears, Nelly, Tremors, and The Earthquake Horns.
The show was produced by MTV, a sister network of CBS, which was the broadcaster of Super Bowl XXXV, for the first time in a Super Bowl halftime show, fans stood on the field around the stage.
The show featured a back-and-forth medley between Aerosmith and NSYNC, with special guest appearances.
NSYNC performed "Bye Bye Bye," followed by Aerosmith performing "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing."
NSYNC, joined by Tremors featuring The Earthquake Horns, performed "It's Gonna Be Me," and Aerosmith performed "Jaded."
The show concluded with NSYNC and Aerosmith performing "Walk This Way," joined by Britney Spears, Nelly, and Mary J. Blige.
The halftime show received positive reception, with some outlets ranking it among the best Super Bowl halftime shows.
And the energy almost remains unmatched.
7. Shakira and Jennifer Lopez (2020)
Shakira and Jennifer Lopez's performance at the 2020 Super Bowl was a vibrant celebration of Latin culture and female empowerment, showcasing a medley of their hits and featuring appearances by Bad Bunny and J Balvin.
The performance began with Shakira, who dazzled the crowd with her signature hip-shaking moves and a medley of her hit songs, including "She Wolf," "Whenever, Wherever," and a salsa version of "Chantaje."
One of the standout moments of Shakira's performance was when she played the electric guitar during a rendition of Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir."
Shakira opened with a rock-heavy set, playing electric guitar on "Empire" and delivering her signature hip-shaking dance moves.
Jennifer Lopez took the stage with a performance that featured elements from her Las Vegas residency, including burlesque numbers, pole dancing, and kinetic salsa routines.
She performed her hits from the 2000s and was joined onstage by reggaeton star J Balvin for "Que Calor" and "Mi Gente."
One poignant moment came when Lopez wrapped herself in the Puerto Rican flag while surrounded by children singing "Born in the U.S.A." This emotional gesture resonated with the audience and added depth to the performance.
The halftime show also featured a surprise cameo by Lopez's daughter, Emme, who joined her mother onstage.
Shakira and Lopez closed out the show with a high-energy mashup of "Let's Get Loud" and "Waka Waka," leaving the audience in awe of their talent and stamina.
Overall, the performance was a celebration of Latinx culture and music, and it received praise for its energy and entertainment value.
6. Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band (2009)
Bruce Springsteen's halftime show brought rock and roll heart to the Super Bowl, with the Boss delivering a set that mixed classic hits with the high-octane energy for which he and the E Street Band are famous.
Springsteen's interaction with the audience, coupled with his timeless tracks, made for a memorable performance that bridged generations of music fans.
The show was marked by Springsteen's command of the stage, his charismatic presence, and the sheer joy of performance that resonated with the live audience and viewers at home alike.
One of the most remarkale Super Bowl Half time shows ever.
5. Beyoncé (2013)
Beyoncé's 2013 Super Bowl halftime show was a tour de force of talent and entertainment.
Opening with hits like "Crazy in Love" and "Baby Boy," she delivered a visually stunning show that included a much-anticipated Destiny's Child reunion.
Beyoncé, along with Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams, brought down the house with a medley of their iconic songs, including "Bootylicious" and "Independent Women."
However, what became even more legendary was the unexpected power outage that occurred in the stadium shortly after Beyoncé's set.
Many joked that her electrifying show was too much for the stadium to handle, making it a standout moment in Super Bowl halftime history.
Beyoncé's 2013 halftime show remains one of the most talked-about and celebrated performances in Super Bowl history.
4. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar
This ensemble brought together some of the biggest names in hip-hop for a performance that was as much a celebration of the genre's influence on music and culture as it was a concert.
One of the standout moments of this extraordinary performance was the reunion of Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg.
The duo, considered pioneers of West Coast hip-hop, their collaboration on tracks like "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang" and "Still D.R.E." was a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans.
Eminem's appearance added to the excitement, as he delivered iconic verses from hits like "Lose Yourself."
Each artist performed hits that not only defined their careers but also contributed to the soundtrack of a generation.
From Dr. Dre's West Coast classics to Snoop Dogg's smooth flow, Eminem's lyrical prowess, Mary J. Blige's soulful vocals, and Kendrick Lamar's thought-provoking lyrics, the audience was treated to a diverse array of hip-hop styles.
Beyond the music, this halftime show carried a powerful message of unity and resilience.
It celebrated the journey of hip-hop from its origins in marginalized communities to its status as a global phenomenon.
This halftime show was a powerful reminder of hip-hop's enduring impact and its place at the center of American music culture, making it one of the most memorable halftime shows in Super Bowl history.
3. Michael Jackson (1993)
Michael Jackson's 1993 Super Bowl performance is often credited with transforming the halftime show into the highly anticipated event it is today.
Jackson's arrival on stage is remembered as one of the standout moments of the show.
He started by standing still for a prolonged moment, creating an aura of anticipation and excitement among the audience.
Then, he made a dramatic entrance by bursting through a pyrotechnic screen, signaling the beginning of an unforgettable performance.
Jackson's set included iconic songs like "Billie Jean," "Black or White," and a powerful rendition of "Heal the World" with a children's choir, alongside an enormous globe prop, emphasizing a message of unity and peace.
Despite facing challenges such as the difficulty of broadcasting a live music event of this scale for the first time, which included audio balance issues and a commercial break mid-performance, Jackson's showmanship and the spectacle of the performance set a new standard for what audiences would expect from halftime entertainment in the years to come.
His moonwalk became one of the most memorable moments in Super Bowl halftime history, further cementing his status as a consummate performer.
The show experienced a few hitches, such as audio difficulties and the daylight setting, which detracted slightly from the visual spectacle.
Yet, despite these technical issues, Jackson's performance remains a landmark event that significantly influenced the evolution of Super Bowl halftime shows.
His dramatic entrance, electrifying dance moves, and messages of unity and peace left an indelible mark on the Super Bowl's history, solidifying his status as the "King of Pop" and making this halftime show one of the best in Super Bowl history.
2. Prince (2007)
Prince's halftime show during a rain-soaked Super Bowl XLI is often hailed as one of the greatest performances in the event's history.
Prince's halftime show stands out as one of the most unforgettable and praised performances in the event's history.
What made this performance truly remarkable was the unexpected rain that added an entirely new dimension to the show.
As Prince took the stage with his trusty electric guitar, the heavens opened up, and rain poured down.
Instead of letting it deter him, Prince embraced the downpour, turning it into a mesmerizing spectacle.
The image of Prince performing "Purple Rain" in the midst of a literal purple rainstorm became an iconic and indelible moment in Super Bowl history.
It was a nod to his artistry and his ability to adapt to any situation, elevating the show from entertainment to a transcendental experience.
Prince's halftime show was a masterclass in musicianship and showmanship.
His guitar skills were on full display, and he delivered a powerful medley of hits, including "Let's Go Crazy" and "Baby I'm a Star."
But it was his electric guitar solo during "Purple Rain" that left an indelible mark.
Silhouetted against a billowing sheet that shielded him from the rain, Prince's solo was a tour de force of virtuosity and emotion.
The crowd was spellbound as he poured his heart and soul into every note.
It was a moment of pure musical genius that resonated with viewers around the world, regardless of their musical preferences.
The rain-soaked performance not only showcased Prince's musical prowess but also solidified his status as a legendary performer who could shine even in the most challenging circumstances.
It was a masterclass in how a seasoned performer can turn adverse circumstances into a memorable and magical experience.
Prince's legacy as a musical icon was further solidified on that rainy evening, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Super Bowl halftime shows.
Super Bowl XLI will forever be remembered for the electrifying, rain-soaked spectacle that Prince delivered, making it one of the greatest halftime shows in Super Bowl history.
1. U2 (2002)
U2's halftime performance in 2002 holds a special place in Super Bowl history for its emotional resonance and poignant tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks.
Taking the stage just a few months after the tragic events of 9/11, U2's performance was not merely a musical showcase but a cathartic experience for the nation in mourning.
The standout moment of the show was undoubtedly their rendition of "Where the Streets Have No Name."
As the band played this iconic track, a scrolling backdrop displayed the names of the victims, creating a powerful moment of remembrance and unity.
This visual tribute resonated deeply with viewers, offering solace and a sense of healing in the face of adversity.
Bono's heartfelt vocals and the band's masterful instrumentation stirred feelings of hope and resilience.
The performance served as a reminder of the unbreakable spirit of the American people and their determination to stand strong in the face of tragedy.
U2's halftime show transcended entertainment; it became a symbol of solidarity and a tribute to the human spirit's capacity to overcome even the darkest of moments.
In the years since, U2's 2002 halftime performance has continued to be a cherished memory, not just for its musical excellence but for the solace it provided to a nation still healing.
It remains a testament to the power of music to heal, unite, and uplift, making it one of the standout moments in Super Bowl halftime show history.
Each of these performances not only entertained millions but also left a lasting legacy, influencing the direction of future halftime shows.
From musical legends to pop icons, the Super Bowl halftime show remains a showcase for the extraordinary talent and creativity of the artists who grace its stage.
As we look forward to future performances, we can appreciate the rich history of shows that have not only provided entertainment during one of the biggest sporting events of the year but have also made a significant impact on pop culture.
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