Looking back at the best Super Bowl halftime shows through the years 

The Super Bowl halftime show has become one of music's biggest and most prestigious stages. These spectacular shows have created unforgettable moments that unite millions of viewers worldwide. Since the first halftime show in 1967 featured university marching bands performing patriotic tunes, this one-of-a-kind celebration has transformed into a platform that hosts the biggest names in music history. Here are our top picks of the most memorable performances throughout the years in no particular order.

Prince - Super Bowl XLI (2007)

Prince owned the stage at Dolphin Stadium even though Mother Nature decided to drench the performance with pouring rain that would have stopped most artists cold. His purple-lit guitar performance of "Purple Rain" became instantly legendary, with rain pouring down on him as he played one of the most iconic solos in rock history.

The funny thing was that the rain actually amplified the magic rather than diminishing it. His medley included explosive renditions of "Let's Go Crazy" and a cover of Foo Fighters' "Best of You,". He showed once again why he was one of the greatest performers to ever live, delivering a performance so perfect that many consider it the best halftime show in Super Bowl history.

Madonna - Super Bowl XLVI (2012)

Madonna delivered a spectacular ancient Rome-themed extravaganza. She descended onto the stage like a goddess on a golden chariot pulled by shirtless centurions, immediately establishing herself as pop royalty commanding her empire. The production featured gladiators, elaborate Roman architecture, and massive choreographed formations. Surprise guest appearances by LMFAO during "Party Rock Anthem", Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. on "Give Me All Your Luvin", and Cee Lo Green performing "Music". Her transcendent performance of "Like a Prayer" closed the show beautifully as she descended through the stage floor. Madonna proved once again that she remains the undisputed Queen of Pop, showing that decades into her career she could still deliver innovation, spectacle, and cultural relevance.

"Salute to Louis Armstrong" with Ella Fitzgerald - Super Bowl VI (1972)

Super Bowl VI honored jazz royalty in a touching tribute. Ella Fitzgerald graced the Tulane Stadium field with her legendary elegance and that unmistakable voice that had defined American jazz for decades. The tribute celebrated Louis Armstrong's incredible legacy and profound influence on music worldwide, as he had passed away just seven months earlier in July 1971. Carol Channing joined Ella to add Broadway sparkle and theatrical flair, creating a beautiful blend of jazz sophistication and show business glamour. "When the Saints Go Marching In" filled the New Orleans stadium with joy and celebration, the classic Armstrong anthem performed in the very city where jazz was born. 

Red Hot Chili Peppers with Bruno Mars - Super Bowl XLVIII (2014)

Bruno Mars brought energy and charisma to the MetLife Stadium, opening with a drum solo that immediately announced his serious musicianship and showmanship. The Red Hot Chili Peppers stormed the stage mid-performance, adding raw rock edge and decades of arena experience to the mix with their signature song "Give It Away." By some beautiful magic, this seemingly unlikely collaboration worked perfectly, with the Chili Peppers' alternative rock credentials blending seamlessly with Mars' retro-soul aesthetic. Both acts complemented each other beautifully in what became one of the best and most surprisingly successful pairings in Super Bowl halftime show history.

Beyoncé - Super Bowl XLVII (2013)

Queen Beyoncé commanded the stage with stunning vocals and militaristically precise choreography. She delivered a medley of hits including "Crazy in Love," "End of Time," and "Halo".
The Destiny's Child reunion surprised and delighted fans as Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams joined her for performances of "Bootylicious," "Independent Women Part I," and the iconic "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)." Beyoncé closed with a triumphant performance that included pyrotechnics, lasers, and her standing in silhouette against flames. She proved herself to be a complete artist who could captivate 110 million viewers with voice, movement, and sheer star power.

The Rolling Stones - Super Bowl XL (2006)

Rock and roll royalty took the Detroit stage and reminded the world why they've been legends for over four decades. Keith Richards' guitar work was absolutely masterful, with his signature riffs cutting through the stadium like lightning bolts of pure rock energy. The Stones tore through "Start Me Up" with an intensity that defied their age and proved their timeless appeal to multiple generations. They played "Satisfaction" with raw fire and rebellious spirit, delivering every note like it was 1965 all over again. This performance was pure rock and roll excellence distilled into twelve minutes of musical perfection.

Shakira and Jennifer Lopez - Super Bowl LIV (2020)

The two superstars Latinas created a cultural celebration and their energy was infectious. Both artists showcased incredible talent and dance move. The Latin music influence was powerful and their performance celebrated diversity beautifully.

Two Latina superstars created an explosive cultural celebration that showcased the power and beauty of Latin music. Shakira opened with her signature hip-shaking energy, performing "She Wolf" and "Whenever, Wherever". Jennifer Lopez took over with "Jenny from the Block" and "On the Floor," commanding the stage with fierce confidence and athletic pole-dancing that left audiences speechless.

 

The energy between both artists was infectious as they joined forces for a medley that celebrated their shared heritage and individual artistry. Lopez wrapped herself in a dual Puerto Rican and American flag during "Born in the U.S.A." which made a powerful statement about identity and belonging. 

U2 - Super Bowl XXXVI (2002)

U2 delivered one of the most powerful and meaningful halftime performances just months after September 11th. Bono sang "Beautiful Day" and "Where the Streets Have No Name" with profound emotion.

Behind them, a massive screen scrolled the names of every victim lost on 9/11, creating a deeply moving tribute that brought tears to millions. The performance concluded with Bono opening his jacket to reveal the American flag lining, a gesture of solidarity that transcended politics and spoke directly to a grieving nation's heart. Music became a vehicle for collective healing, and U2 proved that the halftime show could bring together so many people with powerful emotion.

Bad Bunny - Super Bowl VI (2026)

Bad Bunny delivered a unique and powerful performance. He honored every country across the Americas, naming them from South to North in a strong celebration of unity. The entire spectacular unfolded in Spanish, making history as the first primarily Spanish-language halftime show ever presented. Lady Gaga, who was the only one to perform in English, and Ricky Martin joined him on stage at different times.

The show was filled with hidden messages and Easter eggs. A wedding ceremony unfolded during the performance, and viewers later discovered it was in fact a real couple exchanging genuine vows. What appeared to be decorative grass was actually thousands of performers on the field, which you had to look twice to notice!

The show felt like a musical production brought to life on the football field and stands as probably one of the most creative halftime shows in Super Bowl history.

Michael Jackson - Super Bowl XXVII (1993)

Michael Jackson revolutionized the halftime show forever and transformed it into a must-see spectacle. He was the first big superstar to perform at a half time show. He stood motionless on stage for ninety seconds while the crowd roared with anticipation and excitement. His performance of "Billie Jean" showcased his legendary moonwalk. The King of Pop delivered "Black or White" with a powerful message of unity that resonated across the nation. His finale created a human formation spelling out "HEAL THE WORLD" with thousands of children joining him on the field. This performance set the gold standard for every halftime show that followed after that. 

Diana Ross - Super Bowl XXX (1996)

Diana Ross arrived in spectacular fashion, descending from above in a shimmering gold outfit that dazzled the Arizona crowd. The Motown legend delivered a medley of her greatest hits with effortless grace and timeless elegance. Her performance of "Stop! In the Name of Love" had the entire stadium singing and dancing along. Ross showcased five different costume changes that displayed her status as a true fashion icon and entertainer.

For her grand finale, she departed the stadium in an actual helicopter that lifted off directly from the 50-yard line in an unforgettable exit that left the crowd stunned and cheering. The Supreme diva proved that class and spectacle could combine perfectly on football's biggest stage.

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - Super Bowl XLII (2008)

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers delivered pure, authentic American rock and roll. They opened with "American Girl," instantly energizing the crowd with the opening guitar riffs. Petty's performance of "I Won't Back Down" resonated powerfully as an anthem of determination that the entire stadium felt. They closed with "Runnin' Down a Dream," showcasing the Heartbreakers' tight musicianship and decades of playing together as one unit. This performance proved that great songs and genuine talent could hold the world's biggest stage without any theatrical excess.

Every year the halftime show manages to surprise us all over again. These artists have given us moments we're still talking about years later, and they've shown us that music connects us in a way nothing else can. So count us in, we can't wait to see what's next.

Til' next time, 
Peace General Store



Subjects covered in this article:
Michael Jackson 1993, Diana Ross 1996, Ella Fitzgerald 1972, U2 2002, Prince 2007, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers 2008, Bruce Springsteen 2009, Madonna 2012, Beyoncé 2013, Bruno Mars and Red Hot Chili Peppers 2014, Coldplay with Beyoncé and Bruno Mars 2016, Shakira and Jennifer Lopez 2020, The Weeknd 2021, Bad Bunny 2025, The Rolling Stones 2006, Paul McCartney 2005, Jimi Hendrix tribute performances, Super Bowl halftime show history, greatest halftime performances, Football Halftime