The 57th Super Bowl Sunday took place on Feb. 11th, 2024, this event annually brings in millions of viewers. As part of a tradition beginning in 1967, the Super Bowl began featuring musical acts and performances creating The Super Bowl Halftime Show. The event’s halftime show acts as a beacon of entertainment fascinating to non-football fans as well. Let’s take a journey through all of these electrifying shows as we rank them based on visual aesthetics, setlist, and overall performance.
Katy Perry- 2015: 1st
Katy Perry was welcomed to the XLIX Super Bowl back in 2015, where she delivered a colorful extravaganza. Her spectacle was full of energetic dances, a robotic tiger and fan favorite hit songs such as “Roar” and “Dark Horse.” Her performance was elevated by guest appearances from Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliot. Perry’s production set high expectations for halftime shows to come.
Shakira and Jennifer Lopez- 2020: 2nd
Dynamic duo Shakira and Jlo showcased Latin music and culture during the 54th Super Bowl. The duo’s high energy dance routines, hit setlist, powerful vocals, and guest appearances by Bad Bunny and J Balvin created an unforgettable Super Bowl experience.
Rihanna: 2023: 3rd
Despite being pregnant Rihanna brought a dynamic performance to the stage of Super Bowl LVII. Rihanna showcased sharp dance moves and her easily recognizable song list made it easy for viewers at home to sing along.
Lady Gaga- 2017: 4th
Super Bowl LI featured superstar Lady Gaga, who utilized acrobatics and theatrics as a way of stunning viewers. Given Gaga’s dramatic entrance suspended from the stadium’s roof her spectacle easily becomes top 5 of the best productions. Furthermore, Gaga’s presentations of “Bad Romance” and “Born This Way” intensified the audience’s admiration.
Beyonce, Coldplay, Bruno Mars- 2016: 5th
Super Bowl 50 showcased a multitude of performers including Beyonce, Coldplay, and Bruno Mars. This powerful collaboration brought a dynamic combination of musical genres and state presence.
Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and Mary J. Blige- 2022: 6th
Super Bowl LV featured hip-hop legends. Their nostalgic performance contained songs such as “HUMBLE,” “Still D.R.E.,” and “Rap God.” This was a celebration of the cultural significance of hip-hop music, leaving an impact on viewers.
The Weeknd- 2021: 7th
Despite a global pandemic caused by Coronavirus, the Weeknd took center stage at Super Bowl LV. The Weeknd’s soulful vocals and top charting songs: “The Hills” and “Blinding Lights,” impressed many. Yet many felt the Weeeknd’s presentation lacked the spectacle and dramatics of previous halftime shows.
Usher: 2024: 8th
Usher’s performance at the 2024 Super Bowl left a sense of nostalgia among the audience. However, the lack of coherence throughout the first half of his act places him in a lower ranking.
Maroon 5- 2019: 9th
Headlining Super Bowl LIII was Maroon 5 accompanied by special guests Tarvis Scott and Big Boi. Maroon 5’s energetic set kept the crown entertained. However, mixed reviews and controversy soon sparked from the performance.
Justin Timberlake- 2018: 10th
Justin Timberlake’s return to the Super Bowl Halftime Show stage after 14 years demonstrated a polished display with hits like “SexyBack” and “Can’t Stop the Feeling.” Despite Timberlake’s great performance the show lacked visual appeal.
From pop divas to hip-hop legends, the Super Bowl Halftime Shows from 2015 to 2024 have all left a mark in the pop culture landscape solidifying its place as one of the most anticipated entertainment moments.
