Do you remember when Lady Gaga skydived off the stadium roof? Or when Rihanna revealed her baby bump mid-performance? How about The Weeknd’s backup dancers and their face bandages?
The Super Bowl is packed with iconic moments—and not just from football. With Kendrick Lamar headlining this year, the competition is fierce, so here’s my top five Super Bowl halftime show performances.
- Rihanna (2023)
Rihanna’s Super Bowl LVII show was visually striking and marked her return after years away. She stunned fans by revealing her pregnancy, and made history as the first artist to perform the halftime show while pregnant.
Performing on floating platforms in an all-red outfit, delivering a medley of hits, including “B*** Better Have My Money,” “Work,” “Umbrella” and “Diamonds.”
With no guest performers, Rihanna let her presence and catalog shine. The show was praised for its confidence and simplicity, though some wished for more high-energy moments.
- Lady Gaga (2017)
Lady Gaga’s Super Bowl LI performance was a breathtaking spectacle.
She opened from the stadium roof, singing “God Bless America” and “This Land Is Your Land” before dramatically diving onto the stage. Her setlist included “Poker Face,” “Born This Way,” “Telephone” and “Bad Romance,” seamlessly blending powerful vocals, intricate choreography and a piano solo.
Without any guest performers, Gaga commanded the stage solo, making this one of the most technically impressive halftime shows ever.
- Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige and Kendrick Lamar (2022)
Super Bowl LVI brought hip-hop to the forefront of the music industry in a historic celebration of the genre. Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg kicked things off with “The Next Episode” and “California Love,” setting a West Coast vibe.
50 Cent made a surprise entrance, performing “In Da Club” upside down. Mary J. Blige delivered powerhouse vocals on “Family Affair” and “No More Drama,” while Kendrick Lamar gave a tightly choreographed performance of “m.A.A.d city” and “Alright.”
Eminem followed with “Lose Yourself,” kneeling at the end in what was seen as a nod to Colin Kaepernick. Dr. Dre closed the show with “Still D.R.E.,” bringing all the artists together for a triumphant finale. The performance was praised for its nostalgia, cultural significance and high-energy execution.
- Michael Jackson (1993)
Michael Jackson’s Super Bowl XXVII show redefined halftime performances. Before this, they were mostly marching bands and themed revues. Jackson turned it into a must-watch event.
He stood still for nearly 90 seconds as the crowd erupted, then launched into “Jam,” followed by “Billie Jean” and “Black or White,” complete with his signature moonwalk. For the finale, he performed “We Are the World” with a children’s choir before closing with “Heal the World” as a massive globe inflated on stage.
This performance set the standard for every Super Bowl halftime show to come.
- Prince (2007)
Prince’s Super Bowl XLI halftime show is widely considered one of the greatest ever. Performed in a torrential downpour, the rain only added to the magic.
He opened with “We Will Rock You,” then tore through “Let’s Go Crazy,” “Baby I’m a Star” and covers of “Proud Mary,” “All Along the Watchtower” and “Best of You,” showcasing his range. For the grand finale, he performed “Purple Rain” as the rain poured down, his silhouette projected against a flowing sheet, creating an unforgettable, almost surreal moment.
The raw musicianship, emotion and perfect timing of the rain made it legendary. Many, including me, consider it the best Super Bowl halftime show—so far.
All of these halftime shows have their own unique ways of being a new spin on the average halftime show. I think, however, that Kendrick Lamar’s show this year will be on a lot of people’s top fives, since he is one the most divisive and creative musical artists today. I think he’s truly going to bring it and prove that he really is “Not like us.”
Nicholas Keller is a columnist. Contact him at [email protected].
