Super Bowl halftime shows have evolved into some of the most anticipated performances in music. Every year, millions of viewers tune in, not just for the game, but to see which superstar will steal the spotlight and deliver a show everyone will be talking about. Over the years, there have been performances that have gone beyond just entertaining the crowd; they’ve made history. Whether through surprise collaborations, boundary-pushing performances, or unforgettable moments, these halftime shows have become a part of pop culture. We’re going to look at the top 5 best halftime shows from this past decade that stood out the most and why they’re remembered as some of the best in Super Bowl history.
1. 2025, Super Bowl LIX: Kendrick Lamar, featuring SZA (Caesars Superdome, NewOrleans) – 133.5 Million Viewers
Kendrick Lamar’s performance at Super Bowl LIX was a game-changer, and it absolutely deserves the top spot. The combination of Lamar’s powerful lyrics and SZA’s soulful voice created a performance that felt both intimate and extraordinary. It wasn’t just a performance, it was a statement about the power of hip-hop and R&B. With stunning visuals and high-energy stage presence, they took it to another level. This one broke records and made a serious impact, showing the world what modern music can do on such a massive stage.
2. 2022, Super Bowl LVI: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent and Anderson .Paak (SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California) – 103.4 Million Viewers
This hip-hop heavy halftime show was a historic moment, with legends of the genre taking the stage all-together in a celebration of West Coast rap and hip-hop culture. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and Mary J. Blige’s combination brought together different generations of hip-hop fans, all while delivering some of the best music of the genre. Eminem’s memorable kneeling moment during, “Lose Yourself,” was a powerful statement, while the stage design made the performance feel like a celebration. The chemistry between the artists was undeniable, and the huge number of viewers shows just how much of an impact they had on pop culture.
3. 2023, Super Bowl LVII: Rihanna (State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona) – 121 Million Viewers
Rihanna made an unforgettable return to the stage at Super Bowl LVII, marking her first live performance in years. Not only did she perform while pregnant with her second child, but she also delivered a captivating set that showcased her musical legacy. The performance featured a selection of her biggest hits, including “Umbrella,” “Diamonds,” and, “We Found Love,” resonating with fans around the world. The minimalist stage design kept the focus entirely on Rihanna, allowing her energy and presence to shine. As she effortlessly moved through her songs, she connected with millions, highlighting her status as a global music icon. With 121 million viewers tuning in (according to Billboard), her performance proved her lasting influence and reinforced her reputation as one of the most powerful and iconic figures in modern music. Rihanna’s Super Bowl halftime show was not just a musical performance but a moment that demonstrated her undeniable star power and cultural impact.
4. 2017, Super Bowl LI: Lady Gaga (NRG Stadium, Houston) – 117.5 Million Viewers
Lady Gaga’s halftime performance was a perfect blend of energy, drama, and pure talent. From the moment she made her iconic aerial entrance, it was clear that she was ready to deliver something special. Her voice was flawless, and her stage presence kept both the live audience and millions of viewers at home completely captivated. Gaga also used her performance to make subtle political statements, adding depth and meaning to the show, beyond just the entertainment. With 117.5 million viewers (according to Entertainment Weekly) tuning in, her performance proved just how powerful her star power is. Gaga ensured that her halftime show wasn’t just another performance, it was bold, fierce, and unforgettable.
5. 2016, Super Bowl 50: Coldplay featuring Beyoncé and Bruno Mars (Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California) – 115.5 Million Viewers
Coldplay’s halftime performance was a colorful and emotional tribute to music’s past, full of heart and energy. While their set was fun and solid, it was Beyoncé and Bruno Mars who really stole the show. When they joined in, the energy completely shifted. The choreography was on point, and their surprise appearances added a whole new level of excitement. It became a high-energy performance that kept everyone engaged from start to finish. While Coldplay had the honor of headlining, it was the surprise guests that truly made the show memorable. With 115.5 million viewers (according to Billboard), the entire performance mixing Coldplay’s heart, Beyoncé, and Bruno Mars’ fire became one of the most exciting halftime shows ever.
The top five Super Bowl halftime shows aren’t just about great music, they’re about unforgettable moments that stick with us after the game ends. Whether it was Kendrick Lamar’s powerful message, Rihanna’s emotional return, or Lady Gaga’s electrifying performance, each of these shows brought something special to the table. These performances proved that the Super Bowl isn’t just a game; it’s a stage where artists can connect with millions and make history. Every year it’s clear that the halftime show is just as much a part of the spectacle as the football itself.
