Super Bowl Halftime GOATs: The Most Legendary Performances

As the football world braces for Super Bowl LIX on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, the anticipation isn’t solely for the clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. A significant buzz surrounds the halftime show, where Kendrick Lamar is set to make history as the first solo rapper to headline this iconic event.

1. Prince (2007 – Super Bowl XLI)

Prince’s Super Bowl halftime show is often hailed as the greatest of all time, and for good reason. Under a torrential downpour, he performed “Let’s Go Crazy,” “Baby I’m a Star,” and “Purple Rain,” the last song becoming legendary as the rain poured down, making it feel like a divine moment. His effortless guitar work and commanding stage presence turned a simple set into a timeless spectacle.

2. Michael Jackson (1993 – Super Bowl XXVII)

Before MJ’s performance, the halftime show wasn’t the must-watch event it is today. That all changed when the King of Pop took the stage. He appeared in a military-style outfit, standing motionless for nearly 90 seconds before launching into “Jam,” “Billie Jean,” and “Black or White.” His performance ended with “Heal the World” alongside thousands of children, creating one of the most iconic moments in Super Bowl history.

3. Beyoncé (2013 – Super Bowl XLVII)

Beyoncé is a force of nature, and her Super Bowl debut was no different. She delivered flawless choreography, powerhouse vocals, and high-energy renditions of “Crazy in Love,” “Single Ladies,” and “Halo.” The biggest shock? Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams emerging from the stage for a Destiny’s Child reunion, sending fans into a frenzy. Her performance was so electrifying, some even blamed it for the power outage that occurred in the stadium right after.

4. U2 (2002 – Super Bowl XXXVI)

Just five months after 9/11, the world was still healing. U2’s halftime performance was a deeply emotional tribute to those lost. As they played “Where the Streets Have No Name,” a giant screen behind them scrolled the names of the victims. At the end, Bono opened his jacket to reveal an American flag lining, making it one of the most moving Super Bowl moments ever.

5. Dr. Dre & Friends (2022 – Super Bowl LVI)

This was the hip-hop halftime show fans had been waiting for. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar took over the SoFi Stadium with a performance that paid homage to West Coast hip-hop. The biggest surprises? 50 Cent hanging upside down (recreating his “In Da Club” video) and Eminem taking a knee, referencing Colin Kaepernick’s protest against police brutality. This performance wasn’t just entertainment, it was a cultural moment.

6. Madonna (2012 – Super Bowl XLVI)

Madonna delivered a pop extravaganza, rolling onto the stage like a modern-day Cleopatra on a giant golden throne. Her performance featured Nicki Minaj, M.I.A., LMFAO, and CeeLo Green, making it one of the most star-studded halftimes shows ever. The only hiccup? M.I.A. flashing her middle finger on live TV, leading to major controversy.

7. Shakira & Jennifer Lopez (2020 – Super Bowl LIV)

This Latina-powered halftime show was a non-stop dance party. Shakira brought her belly dancing, guitar-playing, and hip-shaking magic, while J.Lo wowed the crowd with a pole-dancing routine and a surprise performance with her daughter. The energy was off the charts, and their mix of hits, from “Hips Don’t Lie” to “On the Floor,” made this a true Miami fiesta.

8. Katy Perry (2015 – Super Bowl XLIX)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZD1QrIe–_Y

Katy Perry rode into the stadium on a massive golden lion, performed with Missy Elliott, and gave us one of the most viral moments in Super Bowl history, Left Shark. The oddly offbeat backup dancer in a shark costume stole the show and became an instant meme. Beyond the laughs, Katy’s setlist, featuring “Roar,” “Dark Horse,” and “Firework,” was a dazzling spectacle of costumes, props, and pyrotechnics.

9. Bruno Mars (2014 – Super Bowl XLVIII)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qh0OyvjcJKE

Bruno Mars took the stage as an underdog and left as a Super Bowl legend. He kicked off the show playing the drums before launching into a set filled with retro funk energy, slick dance moves, and powerhouse vocals. He even brought in the Red-Hot Chili Peppers for an unexpected rock twist. This was pure musical excellence.

10. Lady Gaga (2017 – Super Bowl LI)

Never one to shy away from theatrics, Lady Gaga literally jumped off the roof of the stadium to start her halftime performance. From that moment on, she commanded the stage with flawless renditions of “Poker Face,” “Born This Way,” and “Bad Romance.” Her vocals, choreography, and stage presence made this one of the most impressive solo Super Bowl halftimes shows ever.

11. Rihanna (2023 – Super Bowl LVII)

Rihanna’s Super Bowl LVII halftime show was a historic comeback, marking her first live performance in five years. Dressed in a bold red jumpsuit, she revealed her second pregnancy mid-performance, making history as the first pregnant Super Bowl headliner. With zero guest appearances, she delivered hit after hit while floating above the stage, proving her star power. Her minimalist yet electrifying set broke the internet, reminding the world why she’s an unstoppable icon. Rihanna returned, dominated, and left fans wanting more.

Kendrick Lamar is no stranger to the Super Bowl; his 2022 halftime performance was a standout. But this time, he’s headlining. Known for his poetic lyrics, socially conscious music, and electrifying performances, Kendrick has the chance to deliver one of the greatest halftimes shows ever.

With SZA as a special guest, fans are expecting a mix of hip-hop, R&B, and next-level storytelling. Will Kendrick join this legendary list of all-time greats? We’ll find out on February 9, 2025.