Since Roc Nation partnered with the NFL in 2019 to help curate Super Bowl halftime performances, Jay-Z’s entertainment company has provided some of the most culturally significant shows in recent history. Let’s break down each of Roc Nation’s Super Bowl performers and see where they rank amongst each other.
Written by Earvin Adjei
6. Super Bowl LV: The Weeknd
In a year defined by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Weeknd delivered a halftime show that was filled with hits and cinematic production. Unlike most halftime performances that heavily rely on guest stars, The Weeknd opted to go solo, filling Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium with his “After Hours” album signature red suit individuals and dark, moody aesthetic. A standout moment took place when The Weeknd navigated a maze of flashing lights and disoriented camera angles, a sequence that quickly became a viral meme. Where the show fell flat was a lack of energy and excitement in comparison to other shows. Some even criticized the absence of any surprise guests although this exclusion was not particularly egregious. Despite all this, The Weeknd’s performance of hit records and visual spectacle further cemented his place as one of the world’s premier artists.
5. Super Bowl LIV: Jennifer Lopez and Shakira, with guest appearances by Bad Bunny and J Balvin
Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium was shaken to its core when Jennifer Lopez and Shakira took the stage for Super Bowl LIV. The performance was a vibrant and high-energy showcase of both stars’ biggest hits, fusing reggaeton, and pop. The performance was elevated by guest appearances from Bad Bunny and J Balvin, who brought additional reggaeton fire to the mix. One of the most politically conscious moments in Super Bowl history came when Jlo was surrounded by children in glowing cages, a visual widely interpreted as a statement on U.S. immigration policies. The show was a needed representation of Latin culture and one of the NFL’s most diverse Super Bowl halftime performances.
4. Super Bowl LVIII: Usher, with guest appearances by Alicia Keys, Lil Jon, Ludacris, H.E.R., and will.i.am
Usher’s halftime show in Las Vegas was expected to expand on his residency which took place in the same city. Not only did he do this but he also showcased his showmanship and signature smooth choreography. What took the show to the next level was the amount of surprise guests. Alicia Keys set the stage for Usher’s entrance, Lil Jon and Ludacris gave some early 2000s nostalgia during a performance of “Yeah!”, H.E.R. delivered an impressive guitar solo, and Will. i.am added his energy to the mix. Usher’s halftime show was a testament to his status as one of the greatest entertainers we have ever seen while also shining a light on the many collaborators he’s had during his career.
3. Super Bowl LVII: Rihanna
Rihanna’s highly anticipated return to the stage did not disappoint. Dressed in a bright red outfit, she opened her performance in true Bad Gal Riri fashion with “Bitch Better Have My Money.” The performance was a masterclass in stage presence, as she effortlessly sang her many hits. What made this performance even more impressive was that she did it all while pregnant! During her performance, Rihanna subtly revealed her pregnancy by cradling her stomach and showcasing her baby bump. While she didn’t bring out any guest performers, her solo set was a reminder of her chart-topping dominance and ability to command a large audience without any help.
2. Super Bowl LIX: Kendrick Lamar with guest appearance by SZA
Following a scorching hot 2024, the expectations for Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show were sky-high. Given his history of politically charged performances, fans anticipated a show that would be both conscious and filled with Lamar’s many hits. Kendrick delivered beyond their expectations. The show kicked off with a surprise appearance by Samuel L. Jackson, who portrayed Uncle Sam. Lamar performed several tracks from his recent album, “GNX,” before SZA took the stage to deliver her megahits “Luther” and “All the Stars.” This performance could go down as one of the most powerful and socially resonant halftime shows ever. Lamar teased the crowd as the familiar beat for “Not Like Us” began playing but was abruptly paused. He referenced Drake’s lawsuit, saying, “I want to perform their favorite song, but you know they love to sue,” before launching into his diss track. During this performance, Serena Williams made a surprise cameo, showcasing her Crip Walk. This bold moment served as a humorous jab by Kendrick, with millions watching. Throughout the show, symbolic imagery enhanced the storytelling, with dancers forming a divided American flag. The performance concluded with “TV Off,” featuring DJ Mustard, where Lamar symbolically “turned the TV off” while the words “GAME OVER” illuminated the stadium. This left a lasting impression on viewers and gave one final shot at Drake. Overall, this halftime show featured bold artistic choices while also referencing the most significant rap beef of 2024, making it one of the most memorable performances in recent Super Bowl history.
1. Super Bowl LVI: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar, with special guest 50 Cent
Dr. Dre was tasked with putting on an amazing performance in front of a hometown crowd and boy did he deliver. Dre orchestrated a beautiful show that served as a homage to West Coast hip-hop. This show also featured an all-star lineup of music icons including Snoop Dogg, surprise guest 50 Cent, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, and Eminem. The set opened with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg performing “The Next Episode” on a stage designed to resemble Los Angeles rooftops. Surprise guest 50 Cent made an upside-down entrance, as a nod to his iconic “In Da Club” music video. Mary J. Blige slowed things down with a rendition of “Family Affair” and “No More Drama,” while Kendrick Lamar brought electrifying choreography while performing “m.A.A.d city” and “Alright.” Eminem closed his set with “Lose Yourself,” taking a knee in a gesture many compared to Colin Kaepernick’s protest against racial injustice. The show was a groundbreaking moment for hip-hop’s legitimacy. With the whole country watching and on music’s biggest stage, the genre’s cultural significance was proved.
The Earvin Edit 