The Super Bowl halftime show is an iconic cultural phenomenon, captivating millions of viewers yearly. What began as a modest intermission performance is now a spectacle featuring music’s biggest stars, elaborate choreography, and dazzling visuals.
Over the years, the halftime show has delivered unforgettable moments, often becoming as anticipated as the game itself. Fans eager to witness these performances live flock to secure the cheapest Super Bowl tickets to enjoy the full event experience.
This list highlights six of the most memorable halftime shows of the 21st century, showcasing the artistry, talent, and sheer entertainment that define the Super Bowl stage.
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Beyoncé (Super Bowl XLVII, 2013)
Beyoncé’s halftime performance in 2013 set a new standard for excellence. Taking the stage with commanding energy, she delivered a powerful medley of hits, including “Crazy in Love,” “Baby Boy,” and “Halo.” The show peaked when she reunited with Destiny’s Child, thrilling fans with renditions of “Bootylicious” and “Independent Women.”
Her flawless choreography, dynamic vocals, and electrifying presence captivated the audience at the stadium and home. Beyoncé’s performance solidified her status as a global superstar and raised the bar for future halftime shows, demonstrating the artistry expected on the Super Bowl stage.
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Prince (Super Bowl XLI, 2007)
Prince’s halftime show in 2007 is often hailed as the greatest of all time. Performing in a downpour, he embraced the moment with a rendition of his iconic hit “Purple Rain,” turning the adverse weather into a dramatic show element.
With his flawless guitar skills and commanding stage presence, Prince delivered a setlist that included “Let’s Go Crazy,” “Baby I’m a Star,” and covers of “Proud Mary” and “All Along the Watchtower.” His ability to merge showmanship with raw musical talent left an indelible mark on Super Bowl history. The combination of artistry, innovation, and authenticity cemented this performance as a benchmark for all future halftime shows.
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Shakira and Jennifer Lopez (Super Bowl LIV, 2020)
The 2020 halftime show featuring Shakira and Jennifer Lopez was a vibrant celebration of Latin culture and music. Shakira opened with her signature energy, performing hits like “Hips Don’t Lie” and showcasing her versatility with guitar and dance.
Jennifer Lopez followed with electrifying choreography and crowd favorites like “Jenny from the Block” and “Waiting for Tonight.” The two artists came together for a memorable finale, blending their styles seamlessly.
Their performance highlighted themes of unity, empowerment, and joy while showcasing their immense talent. With its cultural significance and high-energy execution, this halftime show earned widespread praise as one of the best in recent memory.
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U2 (Super Bowl XXXVI, 2002)
U2’s halftime performance in 2002 was a poignant tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks. Opening with “Beautiful Day,” the band emotionally connected with the audience. As they performed “MLK” and “Where the Streets Have No Name,” a scrolling backdrop displayed the names of those who lost their lives.
The powerful imagery and heartfelt delivery turned the halftime show into a moment of collective remembrance. U2’s understated yet impactful performance resonated deeply with viewers, offering solace and unity during a challenging time.
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Lady Gaga (Super Bowl LI, 2017)
Lady Gaga’s halftime show in 2017 showcased her unparalleled versatility and showmanship. Opening with a stunning descent from the stadium roof, she launched into a dynamic set that included hits like “Poker Face,” “Bad Romance,” and “Born This Way.”
Known for her theatrical performances, Lady Gaga mixed powerful vocals, intricate choreography, and a dazzling stage design. Notably, she performed solo, relying solely on her talent and energy to captivate the audience.
Her halftime show was a masterclass in precision and creativity, earning acclaim for its flawless execution and high-energy spectacle. Lady Gaga’s performance reinforced her reputation as one of pop music’s most innovative and commanding performers.
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Dr. Dre and Friends (Super Bowl LVI, 2022)
The 2022 halftime show, headlined by Dr. Dre, was a groundbreaking celebration of hip-hop’s cultural impact. Joined by icons like Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar, the performance paid homage to the genre’s golden era.
From “The Next Episode” to “Still D.R.E.,” the setlist featured timeless hits that thrilled fans across generations. Eminem’s performance of “Lose Yourself” and a surprise appearance by 50 Cent added to the excitement.
The show was a nostalgic tribute and a declaration of hip-hop’s enduring influence. Praised for its production and artistry, this halftime performance is a milestone in Super Bowl history and a testament to the genre’s global appeal.
The Halftime Show: A Stage for Legends
These unforgettable Super Bowl halftime performances have redefined live entertainment. From emotional tributes to electrifying displays of talent, these shows have become integral to the Super Bowl experience. Each performance reminds us why halftime is more than just a break.