Best Super Bowl Halftime Shows: Ranking Performances From Beyoncé to Kendrick Lamar
The Super Bowl Halftime Show represents the pinnacle of live entertainment, demanding a performer capable of captivating a massive, global audience. Throughout its history, the show has hosted iconic performances by artists like Beyonce, Prince, The Weeknd, and Rihanna. As Bad Bunny prepares for his headlining moment, a look back at some of the most memorable Black performers reveals the diverse ways artists have embraced – and sometimes been challenged by – the spectacle.
James Brown
In 1993, during a Super Bowl held in New Orleans, James Brown, “The Godfather of Soul,” was notably not given the full 13-minute stage. Instead, the performance was shared with a “Blues Brothers Bash” featuring ZZ Top, Dan Akroyd, Jim Belushi, and John Goodman. The decision to limit Brown’s time has been questioned ever since.
Diana Ross
Diana Ross delivered a full “diva” performance in 1996, marking 30 years of the Super Bowl. She performed classic hits like “Baby Love,” “Reach Out and Touch Somebody’s Hand,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” and then departed the stadium in a helicopter, cementing her iconic status.
Stevie Wonder and Savion Glover
Stevie Wonder and dance legend Savion Glover joined Gloria Estefan and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy in a 1999 performance billed as a “Celebration of Soul, Salsa and Swing.” However, the performance felt disjointed, as if two separate shows were crammed together, and many felt Wonder deserved a solo showcase.
Boyz II Men, Smokey Robinson, Queen Latifah, Martha Reeves and The Temptations
A Motown tribute featuring Boyz II Men, Smokey Robinson, Queen Latifah, Martha Reeves, and The Temptations took the stage in 1999. While nostalgic, the performance felt out of place within the context of the Super Bowl, resembling an awards show segment rather than a high-energy football game spectacle. The inclusion of Boyz II Men’s slower ballad, “Mama,” during the game also drew criticism.
The Black Eyed Peas
The Black Eyed Peas brought the expected spectacle to their 2011 Super Bowl performance, but the show ultimately felt indistinguishable from any other live performance by the group. It lacked the unique energy and memorability often associated with the Halftime Show.
Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars performed in 2014, following the success of his album *Unorthodox Jukebox* and amidst comparisons to Prince. The performance showcased his rising star power, hinting at the entertainer he would become, though he hadn’t yet reached the heights of his later successes like *24K Magic* and Silk Sonic.
Beyonce and Bruno Mars (with Coldplay)
In 2016, Coldplay headlined, but the performance was largely overshadowed by Bruno Mars’ energetic rendition of “Uptown Funk” and Beyonce’s powerful performance of “Formation.” Chris Martin, Coldplay’s frontman, acknowledged being outshone by the two artists.
Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent
Super Bowl 56, held in Los Angeles, featured a performance celebrating West Coast hip-hop with Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, and 50 Cent. While multi-act sets can be challenging, this performance allowed each artist to shine.
The Weeknd
The Weeknd’s 2021 performance defied expectations, proving his eclectic artistry could translate to the large-scale Super Bowl stage. The set opened the artist to a wider audience, though it also left many with “Blinding Lights” stuck in their heads.
Rihanna
Rihanna’s 2023 performance was a celebration of her career, featuring a medley of her hits. Notably, she performed while pregnant with her second child, adding another layer to the memorable show.
Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 performance, drawing 133.5 million viewers, was a record-breaking event. The show featured guest appearances by SZA, Samuel L. Jackson, Serena Williams, and Mustard, and included hits like “Humble,” “DNA,” and “All the Stars,” as well as tracks from his mixtape “GNX.”
Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s talent and stage presence make her a natural fit for the Super Bowl Halftime Show. The possibility of a recurring “Queen Bey Super Bowl residency” has been suggested, and would likely be welcomed by fans.
Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson revolutionized the Super Bowl Halftime Show in 1993. Prior to his performance, the show featured ice shows with characters like the Peanuts gang. Jackson’s appearance elevated the spectacle and changed the scope of entertainment associated with the event.
Prince
Prince’s 2007 performance is legendary, particularly for his rendition of “Purple Rain” performed in the pouring rain. He also subtly performed the Foo Fighters’ song, “Best of You,” better than the band themselves, and featured the Florida A&M marching band.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the audience size for Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show?
Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show drew an average of 133.5 million viewers, surpassing previous records.
Who were some of the guest performers during Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 Super Bowl performance?
Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 performance featured guest appearances by SZA, Samuel L. Jackson, Serena Williams, and Mustard.
What songs did Kendrick Lamar perform during the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show?
The setlist included hits like “Humble,” “DNA,” and “All the Stars,” as well as new tracks from his mixtape “GNX.”
Considering the evolution of the Super Bowl Halftime Show, what qualities do you think are most essential for a performer to deliver a truly unforgettable experience?