Evolution of Super Bowl Halftime Performers: Usher, Rihanna, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Lady Gaga, and Beyond

The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most anticipated performances of the year. It’s a time when the biggest artists in the world come together to put on a show that’s watched by millions of people across the globe. In this article, we’ll take a look at every Super Bowl halftime performer from Usher to Lady Gaga.

The Super Bowl halftime show is a spectacle like no other. It has become a platform for musical legends to showcase their talent and captivate millions of viewers around the world. Over the years, we've witnessed unforgettable performances from some of the biggest names in the industry.

Let's delve into the star-studded list of Super Bowl halftime performers, from Usher to Rihanna, Eminem to Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre to Lady Gaga, and beyond.

Usher

Usher is gearing up for a spectacular performance at the Halftime Show of Super Bowl LVIII, and fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming show. The versatile artist, known for his roles as a singer, songwriter, and dancer, has been dropping hints about what his highly-anticipated performance will entail. Throughout his career, Usher has collaborated with numerous artists, sparking speculation among fans about potential surprise guests joining him on stage during the Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show. 

It's evident that Usher is committed to delivering a performance that will leave a lasting impression on his fans. With just under a month left until the grand event, fans are eagerly counting down the days until they can witness Usher's unique and unforgettable performance at the Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show.

Related: Usher and Apple Music tease epic Super Bowl Halftime Show featuring LeBron James, Jung Kook and J Balvin

Rihanna

On February 12, 2023, in Glendale, Arizona, Rihanna graced the stage for the Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show, a production jointly executed by Apple Music, the NFL, and Roc Nation. A standout moment of the show was Rihanna's dynamic rendition of her iconic hit, "Diamonds."

Prior to the performance, in an interview, Rihanna expressed her enthusiasm for participating in the halftime show, stating,

"I’m excited to be a part of this year’s Super Bowl halftime show. It’s a great opportunity to showcase my music to a wider audience and to be a part of such a prestigious event."

Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Kendrick Lamar, and Mary J. Blige

On February 13, 2022, in Los Angeles, California, Eminem, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, and Mary J. Blige joined forces for a dynamic performance at the Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show, a production orchestrated by Apple Music, the NFL, and Roc Nation. The musical luminaries delivered a high-energy medley of their greatest hits, including "The Next Episode," "California Love," "In Da Club," "Family Affair," "No More Drama," and "m.A.A.d. City."

This groundbreaking performance marked the first time that Hip Hop/R&B took center stage at The Big Game. The set, tailored specifically for the West Coast, featured low riders, a Doggystyle poster, Crip-walking, the presence of 50 Cent, and a stunning assembly of over 400 professional dancers and volunteer cast participants. Fans worldwide were exhilarated to witness these legendary artists command the stage, presenting a performance that exceeded all expectations.

The Weeknd

On February 7, 2021, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, The Weeknd delivered an unforgettable performance at the Super Bowl LV Halftime Show, a production brought to life by Pepsi and Roc Nation. Showcasing a medley of his chart-topping hits, including "Starboy," "The Hills," and "Blinding Lights,"

The Weeknd's performance was accompanied by a spectacular light show and a choir of backup dancers donning red jackets and white masks. Widely acclaimed by both fans and critics, The Weeknd's halftime show has been lauded as one of the best in recent Super Bowl history, leaving an indelible mark on the annual spectacle.

Shakira, Emme Muniz, Bad Bunny, Jennifer Lopez, J Balvin,

Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and Emme Muniz delivered a dynamic performance at the Super Bowl LIV halftime show in Miami, Florida. The celebration of Latin culture showcased a medley of hits, including "Hips Don't Lie," "Jenny from the Block," and "I Like It." Emme Muniz, Jennifer Lopez's daughter, made a special appearance, singing "Born in the USA" draped in a Puerto Rican flag. The performance received widespread acclaim for its celebration of Latin culture and its message of unity and inclusivity.

Maroon 5

The Super Bowl LIII halftime show in Atlanta, Georgia, was headlined by Maroon 5 and included performances by Travis Scott and Big Boi. The trio delivered a dynamic show featuring a mix of Maroon 5's hits such as "Harder to Breathe," "This Love," and "Girls Like You." Travis Scott took the stage with his rendition of "Sicko Mode," while Big Boi added his touch with "The Way You Move." Reception to the performance was diverse, with some applauding the energy and others expressing disappointment over the perceived lack of excitement.

Justin Timberlake, The Tennessee Kids

Justin Timberlake took the stage at the Super Bowl LII halftime show in Minneapolis, Minnesota, joined by The Tennessee Kids. The performance included a medley of Timberlake's hits, a tribute to Prince with "I Would Die 4 U," and mixed reviews on Timberlake's energy and excitement.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga headlined the visually stunning and musically impressive Super Bowl LI halftime show in Houston, Texas. The performance featured a medley of Gaga's hits, a tribute to America with "God Bless America," and was widely praised for its energy and creativity, being hailed as one of the best halftime shows in recent years.

Coldplay

Coldplay headlined the Super Bowl 50 halftime show in Santa Clara, California, joined by Beyonce and Bruno Mars. The performance included a medley of Coldplay's hits, Beyonce's "Formation," and Bruno Mars' "Uptown Funk," with mixed reviews on the overall excitement.

Katy Perry, Lenny Kravitz, and Missy Elliott

Katy Perry headlined the Super Bowl XLIX halftime show in Glendale, Arizona, with Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliott. The performance showcased a medley of Perry's hits, including "Roar" and "Firework," along with Kravitz's "American Woman" and Elliott's "Get Ur Freak On" and "Work It." Widely praised for its energy and creativity, it is considered one of the best halftime shows in recent years.

Bruno Mars, Red Hot Chili Peppers

Bruno Mars headlined the Super Bowl XLVIII halftime show in East Rutherford, New Jersey, joined by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The performance included a medley of Mars' hits, such as "Locked Out of Heaven" and "Just the Way You Are," along with the Red Hot Chili Peppers' "Give It Away." Reviews were mixed, with some praising the energy and others criticizing the lack of excitement.

Beyonce's commanding presence

Stealing the spotlight at the Super Bowl XLVII halftime show in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, Beyonce took center stage, delivering a performance that seamlessly combined sheer power with visual opulence. The result? A breathtaking spectacle that left fans not only entertained but utterly awestruck.

Madonna's star-studded symphony

In Indianapolis, Indiana, at the Super Bowl XLVI halftime show, Madonna orchestrated a truly unforgettable performance. Not content with her own star power, she enlisted the likes of LMFAO, Nicki Minaj, M.I.A., and Cee Lo Green, turning the halftime show into a star-studded symphony of music and entertainment.

The Black Eyed Peas, Usher, and Slash: A fusion of energy

Taking over the spotlight at the Super Bowl XLV halftime show in Arlington, Texas, The Black Eyed Peas, along with Usher and Slash, created a dynamic and musically impressive experience, infusing the stage with high energy and an undeniable synergy that captivated the audience.

Prince's iconic style and talent illuminated

In the spotlight at the Super Bowl XLI halftime show in the heart of Miami, Florida, Prince left an indelible mark with a performance that blended musical prowess and visual allure. His iconic style and undeniable talent shone brightly, capturing the essence of his legendary status.

Michael Jackson's unforgettable legacy

At the Super Bowl XXVII halftime show in Pasadena, California, Michael Jackson captivated audiences with a musically impressive and visually stunning performance, showcasing his legendary showmanship. His enduring legacy was etched in the hearts of all who witnessed the spectacle.

These performances have seamlessly woven themselves into the fabric of the Super Bowl experience, with each artist contributing a unique blend of style and talent, creating moments that transcend time and resonate with audiences around the world.