The Super Bowl halftime show has evolved into a cultural spectacle, with millions of viewers tuning in not only for the game but for the highly anticipated musical performances. Each year, artists from various genres take the stage, creating unforgettable moments in music history. In 2023, Rolling Stone ranked the 35 best Super Bowl halftime shows of all time, placing Prince’s legendary 2007 performance at the top of the list.
Let’s take a deeper dive into Rolling Stone’s ranking, from the best to the worst, and break down why these performances stand out—or fall short.
1. Prince (2007)
Why it’s number one: There’s no beating Prince’s electric performance at Super Bowl XLI. The Purple One captivated the world with his iconic songs, commanding presence, and that performance of “Purple Rain” during a rainstorm. Rolling Stone called it “total mastery,” and it’s hard to argue. Prince not only brought his unmatched musical talent but also displayed perfect showmanship. It was a moment that transcended football, making it one of the greatest live performances ever.
2. U2 (2002)
Why it’s number two: U2’s halftime show at Super Bowl XXXVI was deeply emotional and politically charged, coming just months after the September 11 attacks. The band performed "Where the Streets Have No Name," with the names of 9/11 victims displayed on the screen behind them. The performance was a tribute to resilience and unity, giving the show a profound, heartfelt weight that few halftime shows have matched.
3. Beyoncé (2013)
Why it’s number three: Queen Bey delivered an explosive, high-energy performance at Super Bowl XLVII, effortlessly mixing her greatest hits like “Crazy in Love,” “Single Ladies,” and “Halo.” Her surprise reunion with Destiny’s Child was a fan favorite, and her flawless vocal delivery and dance moves were proof that Beyoncé is one of the greatest entertainers of her generation. This performance cemented her Super Bowl halftime legacy.
4. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, and Kendrick Lamar (2022)
Why it’s number four: The 2022 halftime show at Super Bowl LVI was a West Coast hip-hop dream come true. Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg anchored the show, with contributions from Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and 50 Cent. The performance was a love letter to hip-hop, blending the genre's history with modern hits. From Dre’s beats to Eminem’s powerful performance of “Lose Yourself,” this show felt like a triumph for hip-hop at the biggest stage in American culture.
5. *Aerosmith, Britney Spears, NSYNC, Nelly, and Mary J. Blige (2001)
Why it’s number five: Super Bowl XXXV in 2001 brought together a wild mix of artists, from rock legends Aerosmith to pop sensations like Britney Spears and *NSYNC. The collaboration was a spectacle of its time, combining different genres and youthful energy with a dose of nostalgia. While a bit chaotic, it was undeniably fun and one of the more star-studded performances in halftime history.
6. Shakira and Jennifer Lopez (2020)
Why it’s number six: In Super Bowl LIV, Shakira and J.Lo took center stage in a performance that celebrated Latin culture. From Shakira’s signature hip-shaking to J.Lo’s gravity-defying pole dance, the duo demonstrated their immense talent and showmanship. The performance was a perfect combination of pop and Latin influences, and it was a powerful moment of representation for Latinx artists.
7. Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band (2009)
Why it’s number seven: Bruce Springsteen’s Super Bowl XLIII halftime show was pure rock and roll energy. Springsteen delivered a dynamic performance that mixed nostalgia with raw, unfiltered energy. The highlight of the show was his famous “born to run” run into the camera, bringing his raw charisma straight to the audience. It was rock at its finest.
8. Rihanna (2023)
Why it’s number eight: Rihanna’s Super Bowl LVII performance marked her highly anticipated return to the stage after a hiatus. Floating above the field on a platform, Rihanna performed hits like “Diamonds,” “We Found Love,” and “Work.” While some critics pointed to a lack of guest appearances, her confidence and stage presence were undeniable. Plus, the reveal of her pregnancy midway through the show was a jaw-dropping moment that only added to the performance's cultural significance.
9. Madonna (2012)
Why it’s number nine: Madonna’s Super Bowl XLVI performance was as glamorous and theatrical as one might expect from the Queen of Pop. The set featured a medley of her greatest hits, complete with elaborate choreography and a guest appearance by LMFAO. The performance was visually stunning, if not a bit over the top, but Madonna proved once again why she’s one of pop music’s most iconic figures.
10. Lady Gaga (2017)
11. The Rolling Stones (2006)
Why it’s number eleven: The Rolling Stones’ Super Bowl XL halftime show was a classic rock lover's dream. The iconic band performed hits like “Start Me Up” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” to an enthusiastic crowd. While it was a straightforward rock performance, it was a reminder of why the Stones are one of the biggest rock bands of all time.
12. Katy Perry and Missy Elliott (2015)
Why it’s number twelve: Katy Perry’s Super Bowl XLIX performance was a visual feast, with oversized animatronic sharks, flying beach balls, and, of course, the unforgettable appearance of Missy Elliott. Perry brought her A-game in terms of stage design and choreography, while Missy’s surprise cameo reminded everyone that she’s a legend in her own right.
The Rest of the List:
Beyond the top 12, we see a wide range of performances. Some were iconic but lacked the staying power of the top ranks, like Michael Jackson (1993) and Coldplay, Beyoncé, and Bruno Mars (2016). Others, like The Who (2010), Maroon 5 (2019), and The Black Eyed Peas (2011), are ranked lower for their less memorable or often criticized performances.
At the bottom of the list, we find The New Kids on the Block (1991) and The Black Eyed Peas (2011), whose performances have been widely considered lackluster, even awkward at times. Despite their popularity, these shows failed to deliver the level of spectacle and star power that has come to define the Super Bowl halftime show in later years.
Conclusion
Super Bowl halftime shows are a reflection of the pop culture moment, and over the years, we've seen them evolve from simple entertainment to full-scale musical spectacles. While Rolling Stone’s ranking is subjective, it’s clear that some performances—like Prince’s unforgettable 2007 show and U2’s emotionally charged 2002 set—have left an indelible mark on music and pop culture.
Whether you agree or disagree with the rankings, one thing’s for sure: these performances will live on in the memories of Super Bowl fans for years to come.
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