Every year, Super Bowl Sunday brings us overpriced commercials, underrated buffalo chicken recipes, and a halftime show so big we almost forget there's a game happening. Some years, it's a jaw-dropping spectacle (we're looking at you, Lady Gaga). Other times, it's... a little less memorable. (We won't name names!) But have you ever wondered how they pick Super Bowl performers?
With millions tuning in worldwide, the Super Bowl halftime show is one of the biggest stages an artist can land. And while they don't get paid for their appearance (yes, really), the exposure alone is worth it. Streaming numbers break records, albums sales skyrocket, and the internet talks about their performance for weeks. Still, how does an artist go from being a global superstar to the chosen one for the Super Bowl halftime show? There's a whole system behind the madness!
How do they pick Super Bowl halftime performers?
It all starts with the NFL's entertainment team, which is made up of a mix of league executives, production experts, and Roc Nation—the entertainment company founded by Jay-Z that's been overseeing the halftime show since 2019. According to The Charlotte Observer, this group carefully puts together a shortlist of potential performers based on factors like an artist's genre, cultural impact, and ability to put on a show big enough to rival the game itself.
From there, the list goes to the host city, which plays a role in finalizing the act. Sometimes, there's an obvious local tie—like when Usher headlined the Super Bowl in Las Vegas after his wildly successful residency there. Other times, the decision is about making a bigger statement. Clemson University performing arts professor Melvin Villaver explained on NPR's Morning Edition that Kendrick Lamar, this year's headliner, represents more than just music. His performance is a cultural moment, fusing hip-hop and jazz influences that tie back to New Orleans, which is the host city for Super Bowl LIX.
Why are certain artists picked?
While it may seem like the NFL just spins a giant wheel of celebrity names and goes with whoever it lands on, there's actually a bit more strategy involved. They try to create a halftime show that appeals to the widest audience possible, which is often a mix of nostalgia, current hits, and the kind of star power that makes everyone stop mid-chip-dip. Some years, the selection feels like a safe bet—other years, it sparks debate. (We said we won't name names!) And every once in a while, we get an instant classic like Prince's legendary 2007 performance in the rain.
Whether you love this year's pick or not, one thing's for sure: the Super Bowl halftime show always gives us something to talk about. And if nothing else, it's the perfect opportunity to refill your snack plate before the second half.
