When it comes to the Super Bowl, the game might score the touchdowns, but it’s the halftime show that captures the spotlight. What began as a simple marching band display has grown into the biggest stage in entertainment, with music legends turning a football field into a global concert watched by millions. The halftime show isn’t just a break in the action anymore — it’s an event fans look forward to just as much as the game itself.

Over the years, these performances have shaped key cultural moments. Michael Jackson set the gold standard, Prince transformed stormy weather into pure rock ‘n’ roll magic, and Beyoncé delivered a performance so powerful it almost stopped time. Each show is more than just music — it’s part of history, echoing the sound, energy, and personality of its time.

So, as we look back on the most unforgettable spectacles, we’ve ranked the 14 best Super Bowl halftime performances of all time—the ones that transcended entertainment to become legendary.

• Best Overall Performance: Prince (2007)
• Best Dance Showdown: Beyoncé, Bruno Mars & Coldplay
• Best Historic Performance: Michael Jackson (1993)
• Best Rock & Roll Show: The Rolling Stones (2006)
• Best Theatrical Performance: Katy Perry (2015)

• Event: Super Bowl XLI – Miami, FL
• Views: 93.1 million viewers
• Songs Performed: “Let’s Go Crazy,” “Baby I’m a Star,” covers of “Proud Mary” and “All Along the Watchtower,” “Best of You” (Foo Fighters), and closed with “Purple Rain.”
• Why Is It Memorable: A thunderstorm hit mid-performance, but instead of ruining the moment, it elevated it into one of the most iconic shows in Super Bowl history.

The 2007 halftime show at Super Bowl XLI is often celebrated as the greatest of all time, and for good reason. Performing under a heavy Miami rainstorm, Prince didn’t miss a beat—he made the weather part of the show’s drama. Supported by a marching band and a large stage shaped like his signature symbol, he performed a setlist that mixed his biggest hits with surprising covers, including the Foo Fighters’ “Best of You,” which added a modern touch to the show.

The defining moment came when the stadium lights dimmed and he launched into “Purple Rain.” Sheets of real rain poured down, as if nature itself had been choreographed for his finale. With his silhouette cast against a glowing screen, guitar in hand, Prince delivered a performance that was more than entertainment— it was history. The storm could have spelled disaster, but instead it cemented this halftime show as the ultimate example of why live music can be so unbelievable.

• Event: Super Bowl XXXVI – New Orleans, LA
• Views: 88.5 million viewers
• Songs Performed: “Beautiful Day,” “MLK,” and “Where the Streets Have No Name.”
• Why Is It Memorable: The show served as a heartfelt tribute to the victims of 9/11, turning a halftime performance into a moment of collective healing.

Just months after the tragic events of September 11, 2001, U2 took the stage at the Super Bowl XXXVI with a purpose that extended beyond mere entertainment. As Bono sang “Beautiful Day,” a large screen behind the band displayed the names of every 9/11 victim, creating a powerful and touching tribute that resonated with viewers worldwide.

The performance wasn’t about flashy pyrotechnics or elaborate choreography—it focused on raw emotion and unity. The most unforgettable moment occurred during “Where the Streets Have No Name,” when Bono dramatically opened his jacket to reveal the American flag sewn inside. The gesture sent chills through the audience and symbolized solidarity at a time when the nation needed it most.

This halftime show is memorable not only for U2’s passionate performance but also for how it turned a football tradition into a healing moment. It demonstrated to the world that music can comfort, unite, and inspire resilience in the face of tragedy.

• Event: Super Bowl LVI – Inglewood, CA
• Views: 103.4 million viewers
• Songs Performed: “The Next Episode,” “California Love,” “Lose Yourself,” “Still D.R.E.,” and more.
• Why Is It Memorable: It was the first halftime show centered entirely around hip-hop, bringing legends together in a star-studded performance that celebrated West Coast rap culture.

Super Bowl LVI delivered one of the most legendary halftime shows of the modern era, headlined by Dr. Dre and an all-star lineup including Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, and a surprise appearance from 50 Cent. The stage was designed as a collection of white buildings representing Los Angeles, paying tribute to the city where hip-hop culture has flourished for decades.

From Snoop and Dre kicking things off with “The Next Episode” to Eminem dropping “Lose Yourself” in front of a roaring crowd, the energy never dipped. Mary J.. Blige delivered powerhouse vocals with her classic “Family Affair,” while Kendrick Lamar’s sharp choreography and “Alright” performance brought a politically charged edge to the mix. The finale with Dre and Snoop on “Still D.R.E.”—with all performers joining in—cemented it as a cultural celebration.

The halftime show also made headlines beyond the music itself. Eminem took a knee during his set, as a gesture widely seen as a nod to Colin Kaepernick’s protest against racial injustice, sparking discussion around the NFL and social activism. Combining that moment with the unapologetic pride of West Coast rap, the performance resonated not just as entertainment but as a statement of identity and resilience.

This halftime wasn’t just about music; it was a moment in history. For the first time, hip-hop was showcased on America’s biggest broadcast, confirming the genre’s influence and dominance in popular culture. The collaboration between these artists delivered an unforgettable show that merged nostalgia, pride, and cultural significance.

• Event: Super Bowl XLVII – New Orleans, LA
• Views: 110.8 million viewers
• Songs Performed: “Love on Top,” “Crazy in Love,” “End of Time,” “Baby Boy,” “Bootylicious,” “Independent Women,” “Single Ladies,” “Halo.”
• Why Is It Memorable: Beyoncé not only commanded the stage with her solo hits but also reunited with Destiny’s Child, creating a nostalgic yet powerful performance that cemented her as one of the greatest entertainers alive.

The Super Bowl XLVII halftime show was entirely Beyoncé’s. From the moment she stepped on stage in her leather corset and lace outfit, the energy was electric. Her setlist was full of hits that showcased her vocal talent and commanding stage presence, with “Crazy in Love” and “End of Time” igniting the crowd and proving why she’s called “Queen Bey.”

The biggest surprise occurred when Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams joined her on stage for a Destiny’s Child reunion. The trio performed “Bootylicious” and “Independent Women” before teaming up with Beyoncé on “Single Ladies,” a moment that sent fans into pure nostalgia overload. It was a flawless mix of girl-power anthems and slick choreography that reminded everyone of their global impact.

To close the show, Beyoncé slowed things down with a stunning performance of “Halo,” turning a roaring stadium into a sea of swaying lights. It was a rare halftime performance that balanced spectacle with raw vocal power, leaving no doubt about her dominance in music. The combination of vocal excellence, choreography, and surprise reunions made 2013’s halftime one for the history books.

• Event: Super Bowl XLIII – Tampa, FL
• Views: 98.7 million viewers
• Songs Performed: “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out,” “Born to Run,” “Working on a Dream,” “Glory Days.”
• Why Is It Memorable: The Boss delivered a pure rock-and-roll halftime show filled with energy, authenticity, and crowd interaction — capped with his famous knee slide into the camera.

When Bruce Springsteen took the stage at Super Bowl XLIII, he wasted no time turning the halftime show into a rock revival. Starting with “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out” and moving into “Born to Run,” The Boss had the stadium on its feet, commanding the crowd with his raw energy and timeless sound. The performance balanced nostalgic anthems and new material seamlessly, with “Working on a Dream” fitting in perfectly alongside the classics.

The real showstopper happened when Springsteen launched into his iconic knee slide straight into the camera — a moment that instantly became a part of Super Bowl history. Finishing with “Glory Days,” he turned the performance into a huge singalong, showing that sometimes the most unforgettable halftime shows don’t need gimmicks or surprises — just legendary music and an artist who knows how to own the stage.

• Event: Super Bowl XLVI – Indianapolis, IN
• Views: 114 million viewers
• Songs Performed: “Vogue,” “Music,” “Give Me All Your Luvin’” (with Nicki Minaj & M.I.A.), “Open Your Heart” (with CeeLo Green), “Like a Prayer.”
• Why Is It Memorable: A theatrical, star-studded spectacle that blended Madonna’s pop legacy with bold visuals and a mix of guest appearances.

Madonna’s Super Bowl XLVI halftime show wasn’t just a performance — it was a full-on production. From the moment she entered the stage as a golden Roman goddess carried by a legion of dancers, it was clear this was going to be one for the history books. She opened with “Vogue,” complete with runway choreography that transformed the field into a giant fashion runway, before transitioning into “Music” with acrobatics and elaborate visuals that kept the energy sky-high.

The guest appearances added an extra layer of excitement: Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. joined in for “Give Me All Your Luvin’,” complete with pom-poms and cheerleader vibes, while CeeLo Green later appeared to help deliver a powerful finale of “Like a Prayer.” The mix of spectacle, nostalgia, and pop star swagger made it impossible to look away. For many, Madonna proved she could still command the biggest stage in the world, reminding everyone why she’s called the Queen of Pop.

• Event: Super Bowl LI – Houston, TX
• Views: 117.5 million viewers
• Songs Performed: “God Bless America,” “This Land Is Your Land,” “Poker Face,” “Born This Way,” “Telephone,” “Just Dance,” “Million Reasons,” “Bad Romance.”
• Why Is It Memorable: A fearless, high-energy performance that blended patriotism, acrobatics, and Gaga’s greatest hits into an unforgettable halftime spectacle.

Lady Gaga has never been one to play it safe, and her Super Bowl LI performance proved that right from the very first second. Standing on the roof of Houston’s NRG Stadium, she opened with “God Bless America” and “This Land Is Your Land,” before reciting a line from the Pledge of Allegiance. Then, in true Gaga fashion, she dramatically dove into the arena, suspended by wires, immediately electrifying the crowd and millions watching at home.

The energy never wavered as she powered through hits like “Poker Face,” “Born This Way,” and “Just Dance,” surrounded by dazzling choreography and a sea of lights. But she also made space for intimacy, sitting at the piano to deliver an emotional rendition of “Million Reasons,” providing a grounding moment that showcased her powerhouse vocals and artistry. That balance between theatrical pop and raw emotion made the show unforgettable.

Closing with her iconic anthem “Bad Romance,” Gaga left the stage with a level of intensity only she can deliver — all glitter, fire, and perfectly synchronized moves. What made it so memorable wasn’t just the setlist or her athleticism, but the way she used the stage to send a message of unity, inclusivity, and unfiltered joy. The performance was a reminder of why Gaga is more than a pop star — she’s a cultural force who knows how to seize the spotlight and make it count.

• Event: Super Bowl XXVII – Pasadena, CA
• Views: 91 million viewers
• Songs Performed: “Jam,” “Billie Jean,” “Black or White,” “We Are the World,” “Heal the World.”
• Why Is It Memorable: The performance that transformed the Super Bowl halftime show into a must-see global event.

Before Michael Jackson’s legendary performance at Super Bowl XXVII in Pasadena, halftime shows were mostly forgettable. They relied heavily on marching bands, themed spectacles, or medleys of hits performed by multiple artists. That all changed in 1993. Jackson’s entrance redefined what the Super Bowl halftime show could be — transforming it from a background distraction into one of the most eagerly awaited live events worldwide.

He started with a moment of pure showmanship: standing completely still on stage for nearly two minutes as the crowd cheered around him. The tension was electric, and when the music finally kicked in with “Jam,” Jackson burst into motion, his signature energy and precision evident. He followed with “Billie Jean” and “Black or White,” performing moonwalks, spins, and choreographed moves that had the entire stadium captivated. It was the first time the halftime show felt like a genuine global concert.

The production was innovative. Massive jumbotrons displayed his every move, pyrotechnics lit up the night sky, and the stage design heightened the sense of spectacle. For millions watching at home, it was evident that the halftime show was no longer just about football — it was about creating a global cultural event.

Jackson closed the performance with “We Are the World” and “Heal the World,” surrounded by a large children’s choir. Banners across the stadium read “Heal the World,” reinforcing the show’s emotional impact. It wasn’t just a concert; it was a powerful message of peace and hope delivered at one of the most-watched events in the world. From that moment on, the halftime show became a platform for music legends to make history, and Michael Jackson set the standard.

• Event: Super Bowl XL – Detroit, MI
• Views: Around 90 million viewers
• Songs Performed: “Start Me Up,” “Rough Justice,” “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”
• Why Is It Memorable: Pure, stripped-down rock ‘n’ roll energy from one of the greatest bands in history.

Super Bowl XL in Detroit showcased rock royalty as The Rolling Stones took the stage, delivering a raw, unapologetic performance that reminded the world why they are still legends. Opening with “Start Me Up,” Mick Jagger strutted across the stage with trademark swagger, backed by Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood tearing through riffs that electrified the crowd. The three-song set was concise but impactful, ending with “Satisfaction” — a perfect closer that had millions singing along.

Although the NFL controversially censored a couple of lyrics, it hardly dulled the show’s impact. What made it memorable wasn’t spectacle, pyrotechnics, or guest stars, but the band’s ability to command the stage with timeless songs and raw rock grit. In a halftime era increasingly dominated by over-the-top theatrics, The Rolling Stones proved that sometimes the simplest formula — great music played loudly — leaves the biggest impression.

• Event: Super Bowl XXXIX – Jacksonville, FL
• Views: Around 86 million viewers
• Songs Performed: “Drive My Car,” “Get Back,” “Live and Let Die,” “Hey Jude”
• Why Is It Memorable: A classic, feel-good singalong from a Beatle that united generations.

Following the NFL’s cautious approach after the infamous 2004 halftime controversy, Paul McCartney was selected to bring a family-friendly yet iconic vibe to Super Bowl XXXIX. And he delivered exactly that. Backed by a tight band, McCartney opened with “Drive My Car” and “Get Back,” injecting energy before transitioning into the explosive “Live and Let Die,” complete with fireworks that lit up the Jacksonville sky.

But it was the finale that made the performance unforgettable. With “Hey Jude,” McCartney turned the entire stadium into one massive choir, with fans chanting the famous “na-na-na” chorus in unison. It was a moment of pure connection — timeless music crossing generations and proving that sometimes simplicity, paired with iconic songs, can create magic. No gimmicks, no guest stars, just one of the greatest songwriters of all time delivering a heartfelt, unifying show.

• Event: Super Bowl LVII – Glendale, AZ
• Views: Over 121 million viewers (making it the most-watched halftime show in history)
• Songs Performed: Medley including “Bitch Better Have My Money,” “Only Girl (In the World),” “We Found Love,” “Rude Boy,” “Work,” “Wild Thoughts,” “Pour It Up,” “All of the Lights,” “Run This Town,” “Umbrella,” and “Diamonds”
• Why Is It Memorable: Rihanna’s jaw-dropping return — paired with her surprise pregnancy reveal — created a cultural moment unlike anything before.

When Rihanna stepped onto that floating platform above State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, it was immediately clear the Super Bowl LVII halftime show would be something extraordinary. Wearing a striking all-red outfit, she commanded attention from the first beat of “Bitch Better Have My Money,” leading into a nonstop medley of her biggest hits that reminded fans just how much her music has shaped the past two decades of pop and R&B.

The staging was truly memorable. Surrounded by dozens of dancers in sleek white costumes, Rihanna employed simple yet striking choreography, allowing the visuals and floating platforms to carry the spectacle. It wasn’t about pyrotechnics or surprise guest stars — it was about her catalogue, her presence, and the confidence of an artist who doesn’t rely on flashy extras to dominate the world’s biggest stage.

Of course, the most talked-about moment of the performance was when she revealed her baby bump, confirming she was pregnant with her second child. Without saying a word, Rihanna turned her halftime show into a global headline, making history as the first pregnant woman to headline the Super Bowl. With more than 121 million viewers tuning in — the highest for any halftime show ever — it was a performance that was both personal and iconic, cementing Rihanna’s status as one of the greatest live performers of all time.

• Event: Super Bowl XLIX – Glendale, AZ
• Views: Over 118 million viewers (second-most watched halftime show in history at the time)
• Songs Performed: “Roar,” “Dark Horse,” “I Kissed a Girl” (with Lenny Kravitz), “Teenage Dream,” “California Gurls,” “Get Ur Freak On”/“Work It” (with Missy Elliott), “Firework”
• Why Is It Memorable: A pop spectacle complete with giant puppets, star-studded cameos, and the viral Left Shark moment.

Few halftime shows have packed as much spectacle into 12 minutes as Katy Perry’s did at Super Bowl XLIX. Riding in on a massive, golden, lion-shaped prop while belting out “Roar,” Perry set the tone for a performance that was all about bold visuals, dazzling production, and pure pop energy. Backed by a kaleidoscope of colours and larger-than-life set pieces, her show felt like a mix of a circus, a music video, and a theme park ride rolled into one.

The real showstoppers, however, came with her guests. Lenny Kravitz joined her for a fiery rendition of “I Kissed a Girl,” while Missy Elliott stormed the stage halfway through with “Get Ur Freak On” and “Work It,” delivering the kind of nostalgia-fueled performance that nearly stole the show. Perry kept the momentum going with “Teenage Dream” and “California Gurls,” flanked by dancing beach balls, palm trees, and, of course, the instantly meme-worthy Left Shark, whose offbeat moves went viral within seconds.

Closing with “Firework,” Katy Perry floated above the stadium on a shooting star, delivering a finale that was both stunning and emblematic of her larger-than-life style. It wasn’t just a performance — it was a cultural event, demonstrating that the halftime show can be just as much about theatre and spectacle as it is about music. With over 118 million viewers tuning in, Perry cemented her place in Super Bowl history with a performance that fans still discuss nearly a decade later.

• Event: Super Bowl XXXVIII – Houston, TX
• Views: Around 90 million viewers
• Songs Performed: Janet Jackson performed a medley of hits including “All for You,” “Rhythm Nation,” and “Rock Your Body” (with Justin Timberlake)
• Why Is It Memorable: The infamous “wardrobe malfunction” that changed live TV forever.

The Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show began as a display of Janet Jackson’s star power, showcasing her commanding stage presence, choreography, and a medley of hits that captivated the crowd. Joined by Justin Timberlake for “Rock Your Body,” the performance appeared to be building toward a celebratory finale before it unexpectedly took a turn. In the final moment, Timberlake tore part of Jackson’s costume, revealing her breast to millions of viewers — an incident that quickly became one of the most controversial live television moments in history.

The fallout was immense. The “wardrobe malfunction” ignited a cultural storm, resulting in FCC fines, tighter broadcast rules, and years of the NFL booking more ‘safe’ performers like Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones. Although the controversy overshadowed Jackson’s artistry, it permanently changed how live entertainment is approached on one of the world’s largest stages. Nearly twenty years later, the incident still influences discussions about Super Bowl halftime shows.

• Event: Super Bowl 50 – Santa Clara, CA
• Views: Around 115 million viewers
• Songs Performed: Coldplay opened with “Viva La Vida,” “Paradise,” and “Adventure of a Lifetime”; Bruno Mars performed “Uptown Funk”; Beyoncé debuted “Formation”; finale mashup of “Up & Up,” “Fix You,” “Formation,” and “Uptown Funk”
• Why Is It Memorable: A colorful celebration of music capped off by Beyoncé and Bruno Mars stealing the show in a legendary face-off.

Super Bowl 50 featured Coldplay on the halftime stage, and the band embraced their signature uplifting style, filling Levi’s Stadium with bursts of colour, flowers, and an optimistic atmosphere. Frontman Chris Martin engaged the crowd with hits like “Viva La Vida” and “Paradise,” creating a kaleidoscopic spectacle that celebrated the joy of live music.

But it was the guest appearances that truly took this halftime show to another level. Bruno Mars stormed the stage with “Uptown Funk,” delivering his smooth choreography and infectious energy, before Beyoncé made a show-stopping entrance with “Formation,” marking the debut of one of her most politically charged songs. The two icons then faced off in a playful, high-energy dance battle that had the audience roaring.

The finale united all three acts in a mashup that celebrated past halftime shows, with footage of legends like Michael Jackson flashing across the screen. While Coldplay’s softer presence risked being overshadowed by Beyoncé and Mars, the performance overall became a joyful tribute to music’s power to bring people together. For many fans, it wasn’t just about who “won” the stage — it was about three superstar acts coming together for a moment of pure halftime history.

Not every iconic halftime show made it into the top 14, but a handful of performances still deserve a special nod. These shows brought unforgettable energy, star-studded collaborations, and cultural moments that live on in Super Bowl history. From powerhouse pop lineups to soulful tributes, here are some of the most notable performances that nearly cracked the list:

• Aerosmith, NSYNC, Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige, and Nelly (2001): Few halftime shows capture early 2000s pop culture quite like this one. Aerosmith played classics like “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” before teaming up with NSYNC for “Walk This Way.” Britney Spears, Mary J.. Blige, and Nelly then joined in for a star-studded finale that felt more like an MTV music awards show than a Super Bowl. It was chaotic, over-the-top, and undeniably fun.
• The Weeknd (2021): Tasked with headlining during the pandemic, The Weeknd transformed Raymond James Stadium into a cinematic experience. From the haunting visuals of “Starboy” to the now-iconic “Blinding Lights” sequence with dancers in red blazers and face bandages, it was part concert, part art installation. Although some viewers felt the scale was smaller compared to other halftime shows, The Weeknd proved that even without guest stars, a single artist could captivate 100 million people with mood, style, and vision.
• Dan Aykroyd, John Goodman, James Belushi, ZZ Top, and James Brown (1997): Dubbed the “Blues Brothers Bash,” this halftime performance united comedy, rock, and soul for a truly unique lineup. The Blues Brothers provided humour, ZZ Top delivered the riffs, and James Brown stole the show with unmatched energy. Although a bit rough around the edges, the event remains one of the most eclectic and ambitious halftime performances.
• Boyz II Men, Smokey Robinson, Martha Reeves, The Temptations, & Queen Latifah (1998): A heartfelt Motown tribute hosted in Detroit, this halftime show celebrated the city’s legendary musical history. Soulful harmonies from Boyz II Men, smooth nostalgia from Smokey Robinson and The Temptations, and Queen Latifah’s charisma made it feel like both a history lesson and a party. It wasn’t the flashiest halftime, but it delivered pure musical soul that resonated deeply with fans.
• Justin Timberlake (2018): Timberlake’s return to the Super Bowl stage was met with high expectations, and he relied on his hit-filled catalogue to deliver. From “SexyBack” to “Can’t Stop the Feeling,” he maintained a lively energy, but the standout moment was his heartfelt tribute to Prince in Minneapolis, with the stadium illuminated in purple. Although it didn’t quite reach the heights of some other halftime shows, it was polished, nostalgic, and filled with memorable moments.