Music

The Most Iconic Super Bowl Halftime Show Performances of All Time

When the Super Bowl began in 1967, the performances weren't as glamourous as they are today. Now, several decades later, every A-list artist dreams of being invited to the famous stage during halftime. 

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When we think of the Super Bowl Halftime Show, we think of glitz, glamour, and (an overwhelming amount of) background dancers in matching outfits. It hasn't always been like this, though. The very first artist invited to perform wasn't actually an artist at all, but, in fact, was the University of Arizona Symphonic Marching Band. Clearly, a lot has changed since then because now we welcome legendary artists, including The Rolling Stones, Jennifer Lopez, and Beyoncé. This year's performance should not be missed, as long-time superstar Rihanna takes the stage for the first time ever. 

In honor of the 2023 Super Bowl quickly approaching, let's take a look at the 11 most remembered halftime shows of all time. 

1993: Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson changed the game when it came to the Super Bowl Halftime Show. He was the first star to perform, and he mesmerized the audience when he sang his well-known songs “Jam,” “Billie Jean,” “Black or White,” “We Are the World,” and “Heal the World.” 

Michael Jackson performs during his 1993 Super Bowl Halftime show.
2005: Paul McCartney

The former Beatle blew the minds of sports and music fans alike when he performed at the 2005 Super Bowl Halftime Show. Although he sang several classic toons, "Hey Jude" was the winner of the night. McCartney's performance is definitely one of the most remembered rock shows in history.

Paul McCartney performs at the 2005 Super Bowl halftime show.
2006: The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones, one of the most loved and respected rock 'n' roll bands of all time, were chosen to perform at the 2006 Super Bowl, and they definitely brought the energy and passion with them. Roughly 89.9 million people tuned in—more than the audiences for the Oscars, Grammys and Emmy Awards combined.

The Rolling Stones perform during the 2006 Super Bowl halftime show.
2012: Madonna ft. Nicki Minaj, LMFAO, Cee Lo Green, Andy Lewis and M.I.A.

Best known as the "Queen of Pop," Madonna performed some of her classics alongside fan favorites Nicki Minaj, LMFAO, Cee Lo Green, Andy Lewis, and M.I.A. in 2012. There was a slight controversy during the show when M.I.A. flipped off the camera, but nonetheless, it is one of the most watched halftime performances of all time.

Madonna performing at the 2012 Super Bowl halftime show.
2013: Beyoncé ft. Destiny's Child

This iconic performance was a long-awaited reunion between Beyoncé and her former bandmates, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams. They sang a variety of hits, from "Bootylicious" to "Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)," and the show was filled with sparkles, fireworks, and, of course, some stunning outfits. 

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2014: Bruno Mars ft. Red Hot Chili Peppers

Wherever he goes, Bruno Mars brings the thrill and energy people need. Before he came on stage, the Seahawks were ahead of the Broncos 22-0, so Mars successfully delivered a much-needed pick-me-up. Alongside him, the adored Red Hot Chili Peppers rocked and rolled. 

Bruno Mars performs at the 2014 Super Bowl halftime show.
2015: Katy Perry ft. Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliott

Katy Perry has always made it a mission to stand out and to be remembered for her risky fashion choices. She entered the stage on a 40-foot gold lion (as one does), wearing a bright, mini flame dress. Lenny Kravitz later joined her for a performance of her iconic hit, "I Kissed A Girl," as he played his electric guitar, as did Missy Elliot for "Work It," "Get Ur Freak On," and "Lose Control."

Katy Perry performs at the 2015 Super Bowl halftime show.
2017: Lady Gaga

Controversy is Lady Gaga's middle name, so, of course, there was a lot of anticipation before her 2017 performance. To everyone's surprise, there were no crazy, meat-dress moments; however, she definitely wore some beautiful, studded pieces and did a few flips in mid-air. Among the songs she performed were "Poker Face," "Bad Romance," and "Million Reasons."

Lady Gaga performs at the 2017 Super Bowl halftime show.
2020: Shakira and Jennifer Lopez ft. Bad Bunny, J Balvin and Emme Muñiz

Shakira and JLo's halftime show was one of the most loved performances of the Super Bowl. Not only did it embody female empowerment, but it also radiated pride for Latin culture. Although the show came together beautifully, there was some hesitation from Lopez's side. In her recent documentary, she shared that it was "the worst idea in the world" to have two performers at the same time; however, later she admitted that it was "a beautiful thing" to perform with her long-time friend.

Shakira and Jennifer Lopez perform at the 2020 Super Bowl halftime show.
2021: The Weeknd

On January 5, 2021, The Weeknd posted a photo on Instagram of his face drastically altered by plastic surgery. His fans were concerned as to why he would do such a ridiculous thing; however, it was soon realized that it was, in fact, fake and that it was an announcement for his upcoming show. Because the singer had to perform during the COVID pandemic, there were several restrictions that took place. Nonetheless, The Weeknd sang some of his most loved songs like "Can't Feel My Face," "Starboy," and "The Hills" as he was surrounded by his bandage-covered background dancers. 

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2022: Dr. Dre, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and 50 Cent

For a long time, the NFL was under widespread criticism for failing to support players who were taking a stance against police brutality. As a result, many artists declined the league's offer to perform during halftime. The 2022 show in Los Angeles, however, was acclaimed for gathering five '90s hip-hop and R&B legends, as well as well-known rapper Kendrick Lamar. Not only was it a nostalgic teleportation back to the west coast, but it was widely acclaimed as one of the best Super Bowl Halftime Shows in recent memory.

Dr. Dre, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige and 50 Cent perform at the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show.

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