The NFL had an impressive lineup of musical performances at the Super Bowl LIX, which took place on February 9, 2025, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. The event featured a highly anticipated matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles.
Grammy-winning artists Kendrick Lamar and SZA headline the prestigious halftime show, marking a significant collaboration between two influential music performers. The duo’s previous collaborations, including hits “All the Stars” and “Doves In The Wind,” have set high expectations for their Super Bowl performance.
The entertainment spectacle was produced by DPS, with Roc Nation and Jesse Collins serving as executive producers. In a commitment to inclusivity, Matt Maxey provides American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation of the halftime show performances, ensuring accessibility for all viewers.
New Orleans native and five-time Grammy winner Jon Batiste performed the national anthem, bringing his diverse musical background that includes an Academy Award, Golden Globe Award, and BAFTA Film Award to the prestigious performance. Stephanie Nogueras accompanied with an ASL rendition of the “Star-Spangled Banner.”
The pre-game celebration showcases local talent, with New Orleans artists Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle joining forces for “America the Beautiful.” This performance particularly resonated given the game’s location in their hometown, with Stephanie Nogueras providing ASL interpretation.
Adding to the cultural significance of the event, fifteen-time Grammy nominee Ledisi performed “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” continuing the three-year tradition of including the Black national anthem in the Super Bowl program. Otis Jones IV delivers the ASL interpretation of this meaningful performance.
The selection of performers reflects the NFL’s commitment to celebrating diverse musical genres and cultural representation. The combination of Kendrick Lamar’s thought-provoking lyricism and SZA’s soulful vocals delivered a memorable halftime show that bridges different musical styles and audiences.
This year’s entertainment lineup demonstrates the Super Bowl’s evolution beyond a mere sporting event into a cultural phenomenon that unites sports, music, and community celebration. The inclusion of local New Orleans talent alongside mainstream stars creates a unique blend that honors both the host city’s rich musical heritage and contemporary popular culture.
The Super Bowl LIX performances drew millions of viewers worldwide, continuing the tradition of delivering spectacular entertainment alongside championship football. With this carefully curated lineup of award-winning artists, the 2025 Super Bowl is positioned to be a landmark event in both sports and entertainment history.
