There have been 58 Super Bowls played, and some incredible half-time shows have gone on over the course of them. Super Bowl LIX is likely to feature another great show, with Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar set to perform. Here are the top 10 Super Bowl half-time shows of all time.
10. Tom Petty (2008)
This show may have been overshadowed by the Giants denying the Patriots of a perfect season, but it was excellent nonetheless. The late Petty (and the Heartbreakers, who deserve their flowers, too) gave the crowd a jolt by opening with “American Girl” and rode that momentum until the end.
9. Michael Jackson (1993)
After opening with a dramatic two-minute silence – not sure what that was about – MJ did MJ things. Starting the party with smooth hits “Billie Jean” and “Black and White” and concluding with the controversial “Heal the World” grabbed and held the nation’s attention – another excellent TV performance from the pop icon.
8. Lady Gaga (2017)
The unique persona of Gaga was dialed down in this one, but it was still her show, and she crushed it. “Born This Way” showed Gaga was unafraid to be herself, and the catchy “Telephone” got the audience moving.
7. Katy Perry and Missy Elliott (2015)
Katy Perry provided an incredible set and performance in her own right, but the surprise addition of Missy Elliott may have stolen the show. Just a tease of the infectious rap hit “Get Ur Freak On” had the audience losing it, and her performance of the song completely changed the energy in the stadium.
6. Shakira and Jennifer Lopez (2020)
The two Latina artists put on quite a show together. Highlighted by incredible dancing and a variety of music genres coming in and out, this show was complex, yet nothing seemed out of place. Not to mention the classic “Hips Don’t Lie,” which caused the crowd to roar in approval.
5. Rihanna (2023)
Despite the big game being her first performance in over five years, RiRi showed no signs of rust, busting out big hits “Bitch Better Have My Money,” “Rude Boy” and “Diamonds,” showing the world that her stardom never stopped glowing and that she is here to stay.
4. Beyoncé (2013)
An iconic performance from a modern pop superstar, Bey didn’t hesitate to roll out the hits. “Crazy in Love,” “Baby Boy,” “Independent Women” and “Halo” showed her growth as an artist, from her Destiny’s Child days to going solo. It was another outstanding show from one of music’s biggest names.
3. U2 (2002)
A post-9/11 show was always going to be a tearjerker. But the rock-and-roll band really outdid themselves with this one. Their beautiful performances of “Beautiful Day,” “MLK” and “Where the Streets Have No Name” could have made a grown man cry.
2. Prince (2007)
There was a thunderstorm in Miami during the show, but Prince provided the lightning all by himself. Playing “Let’s Go Crazy,” “All Along the Watchtower” and “Purple Rain” – on which he absolutely shredded a magnificent guitar part – Prince added another legendary moment to his illustrious career.
1. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, and Kendrick Lamar (2022)
A crazy lineup resulted in an absolutely crazy show. Iconic songs from the whole gang – Dre and Snoop’s “The Next Episode,” 50’s “In Da Club” and Mary’s “Family Affair” provided a sensational opening act. Then, Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright” had the crowd leaning and learning. But stealing the show was Eminem’s “Lose Yourself,” an emotional ending to an unforgettable performance.
