As the countdown begins to this year’s Super Bowl, the excitement is palpable—not just for the clash between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, but also for the much-anticipated halftime spectacle. Set to take place on February 8 in Santa Clara, California, this year’s show will see the chart-topping Bad Bunny take centre stage. Following his recent triumph at the Grammys, the Puerto Rican sensation is poised to attract an even larger audience than Kendrick Lamar’s record-breaking 133.5 million viewers last year.
With a rich history of unforgettable performances, let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane to highlight ten of the most extraordinary halftime shows that have graced the event.
A Pregnant Pause: Rihanna’s 2023 Spectacle
Rihanna’s performance last year was nothing short of groundbreaking. Not only did she deliver a spectacular medley of hits like “We Found Love” and “Work,” but she also made headlines with her surprise pregnancy reveal, showcasing a baby bump in her striking red ensemble. The Barbadian superstar transformed the stage into a celebration of motherhood and music, leaving fans buzzing long after the final note.
Legends of the Stage: McCartney, Madonna, and More
In 2005, Paul McCartney set a different tone with a more understated yet deeply moving performance. Eschewing flashy theatrics, he captivated the Jacksonville crowd with a heartfelt rendition of classics, culminating in a singalong of “Hey Jude” that united fans in a moment of joy.
Fast forward to 2012, when Madonna made a grand entrance on a massive golden chariot, flanked by a legion of muscular performers. The Queen of Pop dazzled with a medley that included “Like a Prayer” and “Vogue,” proving that she could still command the stage with the same fierce energy that defined her early career.
And who could forget Katy Perry’s show-stopping performance in 2015? Her entrance on a giant lion, coupled with an array of vibrant visuals and jaw-dropping choreography, created an unforgettable spectacle. Memorable moments like the Left Shark fiasco became pop culture references for years to come.
The Power of Collaboration: J.Lo and Shakira, Beyoncé, and Kendrick Lamar
The 2020 halftime show was a powerful display of Latin pride, featuring the dynamic duo of Jennifer Lopez and Shakira. Their high-energy performance not only showcased their individual talents but also challenged the narrative that women can’t steal the spotlight in a male-dominated arena. From Shakira’s electric guitar solo to J.Lo’s spectacular descent from the Empire State Building, their show was a fiery celebration of culture and empowerment.
Beyoncé, in 2013, raised the bar even higher with her fierce and flawless performance, which included a surprise reunion with Destiny’s Child. The spectacle was so electrifying that it reportedly caused a temporary blackout in the stadium, a fitting tribute to her star power.
Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 performance marked a pivotal moment in the history of the halftime show. His politically charged set not only stirred emotions but also sparked conversations, with one critic proclaiming it as “the most significant mass-televised rap performance of all time.” Lamar’s ability to engage audiences and provoke thought set a new standard for future artists.
The Unforgettable Prince: A Legacy of Greatness
At the pinnacle of halftime performances is Prince, whose 2007 show remains unrivalled. Amidst a downpour, he delivered a spellbinding set that included iconic tracks like “Purple Rain” and “1999.” The synergy of his performance and the weather created an unforgettable atmosphere, solidifying his place as one of the greatest live performers in history.
Why it Matters
The Super Bowl halftime show is more than just entertainment; it reflects cultural trends, societal issues, and the power of music to unite people. Each performance tells a story, whether it’s a celebration of identity, a moment of personal revelation, or a bold statement against the status quo. As we gear up for Bad Bunny’s performance, we are reminded of the profound impact these artists have on our collective consciousness, making the halftime show a pivotal moment in contemporary culture.
