BEST HALFTIME SHOWS

After watching Rihanna’s 2023 Super Bowl Halftime performance, I’ve done a lot of thinking about the ghosts of halftime shows past. Personally, it’s hard to top Lady Gaga’s 2017 show (I could arguably say that she’s the best performer of this generation). Still, here are a few of my favorite Super Bowl Halftime shows, in no particular order!

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Michael Jackson - 1993

While re-watching all of these performances, Michael Jackson had the most opening applause, if not overall applause that I had heard. It was only broken by “Billie Jean” and the revolutionary dance moves that he whipped out. However, the applause literally never stopped, so much so that you could barely hear the music playing over it. That still didn't matter, as this was probably the biggest Super Bowl performance to date.

The Rolling Stones - 2006

The Rolling Stones put on a show that was pure rock n roll. They performed some of their classics, including “Start Me Up” and “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”. The Stones couldn’t have put on a better show if they didn’t stick to their roots. No added effects, no intricate set, just music, which is the epitome of 60s/70s rock. This show was executed perfectly, in my opinion.

Paul McCartney - 2005

McCartney is another iconic artist who took on the Super Bowl. He opened abruptly, with “Drive My Car”. This performance was, again, pure rock. McCartney’s vocals haven’t deteriorated, despite being in his early 60s at the time. This classic show excited the audience, as they were in the presence of a legend, and it will live on as one of my favorite live shows.

Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, Kendrick Lamar - 2022

The hip-hop medley that won an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special. This performance was highlighted by 50 Cent entering upside down, Anderson .Paak playing drums for Eminem's “Lose Yourself”, and Kendrick’s entire performance. Hopefully we’ll see more mainstream hip-hop performances in the Super Bowls to come.

Lady Gaga - 2017

As I mentioned earlier, this is probably my personal favorite halftime show. Gaga began literally on the top of the stadium, meaning the rooftop. Even while she was flying through the air, her vocals were on point, and her stamina was extremely impressive. The performers and visuals of this show were remarkable, putting on a perfect ensemble of Lady Gaga songs.

Beyonce - 2013

Beyonce's 2013 performance shook the world. Her vocals were outstanding. She had already put on such a show before she reunited Destiny’s Child to sing “Bootylicious”, “Independent Women”, and “Single Ladies”. The stage was on fire, literally and figuratively, as Beyonce was backed up by dozens of female dancers and a killer horn section.

Prince - 2007

Prince brought out an entire marching band for his performance in 2007. He sang his classics along with the classics of others, such as Jimi Hendrix and the Foo Fighters. Throughout his 12 minute performance, his momentum never stopped, proving once again his immense talent. Closing with “Purple Rain”, Prince’s performance was one of the most iconic halftime shows.

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Thank you for reading! I hope that you enjoyed this but if you didn’t, that’s okay too.

LOVE YOU ALL SEE YOU NEXT TIME XOXO

Soph <3

February 20th, 2023. By Sophia Cook.