Super Bowl halftime performers: 5 we want to see next year and 1 we don’t
(Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for NARAS)
Super Bowl halftime performers are often the best part of the annual big game, so who should take on the task for Super Bowl 53?
Some people could care less about the teams battling it out on the gridiron on Super Bowl Sunday. The Super Bowl halftime show is the main attraction. Over the past couple of years, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry have wowed both the in person fans and the home viewers. This year’s Super Bowl halftime performer, Justin Timberlake, had a pretty mediocre performance (at least it was less revealing than the last time he was on the Super Bowl stage … even if he did bring “Rock Your Body” back).
When it comes to Super Bowl performances, the headliner has to appeal to a wide audience. Everyone involved wants the halftime show to be watched, not used as a snack or bathroom break. Also, the show needs to be family-friendly. After a too revealing moment years ago, the performances offer high production value but are relatively tame.
So, for next year, what Super Bowl halftime performers would we want to see? Here is a list of five performers that we would want to take the big game stage and one that we don’t want to perform.
(Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for NARAS)
JAY-Z
Looking at this year’s Grammys, Billboard charts and pop culture, rap and hip hop are everywhere. One of the iconic rap performers is JAY-Z. From his chart-topping albums to his influence on others in the industry, he’d be a top choice for the Super Bowl halftime performance.
While some songs might have to be edited, he would have an impeccable show. He commands the stage with his presence and appeals to a wide audience. Young, old, men and women, all have come to enjoy at least one of his songs.
Also, he could have some intriguing musical collaborations during the halftime performance. Of course, everyone would want to see a JAY-Z and Beyoncé performance. Beyoncé has performed at the Super Bowl before. The husband/wife duo would bring down the house.
Of course, there would be haters who would disapprove of this choice. Wonder if Kanye West would be happy with JAY-Z headlining the halftime show or if he would go off on one of his infamous rants?
(Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for iHeartMedia)
Ed Sheeran
Have you noticed that almost anything Ed Sheeran touches turns gold, or really platinum? From hugely popular songs to epic collaborations, Ed Sheeran is everywhere. Now as he goes back on tour, the lyrically prophetic musician could definitely conquer the Super Bowl stage.
Even with just a guitar and a soundboard, Ed Sheeran can rock a huge stadium. His songs tug at the heartstrings and get people up and dancing. His performance could be a magnificent arc of emotions during a halftime show.
Since Ed Sheeran has worked with Eminem, Beyoncé and numerous others, he could bring some amazing collaborations to the performance. His music can cross generations, genres and demographics. If he can perform at a Royal Wedding, he definitely can rock the Super Bowl.
(Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for NARAS)
Elton John
With the recently announced last tour, Elton John would be a great choice for a Super Bowl half time show. Spanning numerous generations, Elton John has mass appeal. Given his recent Grammy’s appearance and even cameo in Kingsmen 2: The Golden Circle, John has endeared himself to younger fans. His songs capture both the emotion and exuberance.
Bringing Elton John to the Super Bowl stage could produce some fun collaborations. For many years, he toured with Billy Joel. The dueling pianos produced some memorable performances. Many other duets could be a possibility too. Maybe another Miley Cyrus duet, like at the Grammys?
While John performs behind a piano, his performances are never boring. Granted, he has tamed down his outfits over the years, but his playing is always filled with exuberance.
INDIO, CA – APRIL 23: Music fans watch the Guns N’ Roses performance onstage during day 2 of the 2016 Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival Weekend 2 at the Empire Polo Club on April 23, 2016 in Indio, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Coachella)
Guns N’ Roses
Previously, the infamous rock band said that they would never get back together and perform again. After several years selling out stadiums on their reunion tour, Guns N’ Roses could definitely take over the Super Bowl stage.
Granted, the rock giants are a little older than their ’80s/’90s glory days. Their music still has people rocking out. From songs like “Welcome to the Jungle” to “Paradise City,” all ages love these classic rock anthems.
Also, Slash is one of the best guitar players of all time. Even if Axl Rose doesn’t have the stamina for the whole performance, Slash can take over the stage with a guitar solo. Listen to his version of The Godfather song. Maybe Slash could do a show on his own.
(Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Jennifer Lopez
Jenny from the Block has come a long way, but she can get an audience on its feet. From impeccable dance tracks to delicate Spanish ballads, Jennifer Lopez can put on a show. Any Super Bowl half time show with her would be a huge performance.
Super Bowl performances are often filled with huge production values. Lopez’s shows have huge, impressive dance numbers. Whether sitting in the stands or watching from home, the performance could be jaw dropping.
Having Lopez as a Super Bowl half time performer could bring something new to the stage, a bi-lingual performance. Today’s music fans are savvy. Songs like “Despacito” (not a Lopez song, but a bilingual hit) were huge this year. Showing an appreciation for the Latinx community could be a smart choice for the Super Bowl committee.
(Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)
And, one we don’t — Taylor Swift
Sorry Taylor Swift fans, but Super Bowl half time show shouldn’t be on her must do list. Sure the celebrity feuds are never ending, but Taylor Swift can be really annoying. Many people have had enough of her cutting remarks towards others, revenge ballads and sometimes mean girl attitude.
When Taylor Swift started her career, many people were moved by her lyrics that seemed to capture emotions. Over the years, the endearment has seemed to fade. Instead of emotional lyrics, Swift’s last album was a collection of hooks without heart.
Sure, Taylor Swift sells out stadiums and has legions of fans. Still, the Super Bowl committee can find some other act that could be much more entertaining.
Next: Super Bowl 52's Avengers: Infinity War trailer
Who would you want to see perform at the Super Bowl halftime show?