Super Bowl 2024: Usher to headline halftime show

 Usher

While football lovers tune in for one of the most grueling sports this weekend, millions will tune in specifically for the Halftime show that has become the major attraction.

This year’s Super Bowl halftime performance is anticipated to be a spectacle like no other. As one of the most-watched events globally, the show has become synonymous with jaw-dropping performances and unforgettable moments. 

Last year, over 118 million people watched the performance headlined by Rihanna.

Fast forward a year later, RnB legend Usher is slated to headline the halftime show of Super Bowl LVIII which is taking place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas this weekend.

This performance marks a significant moment for Usher, fulfilling a childhood dream. He is not just headlining but also becoming the first R&B artiste to solely lead the Super Bowl halftime show in over 20 years. 

While details are shrouded in secrecy, fans should expect a dynamic setlist spanning his massive hits like Yeah!, Burn, and My Boo. Rumours about surprise guests range from established stars like Justin Timberlake or Beyoncé to emerging talents in the R&B scene.

The potential for surprises and an innovative showcase of R&B artistry has fueled immense anticipation amongst fans and critics alike. This halftime show promises to be a landmark performance, honouring Usher’s legacy and setting a new precedent for future years.

Usher has previously appeared on the halftime show as a guest in Super Bowl XLV, which was headlined by The Black Eyed Peas.

He told Access Hollywood earlier this year that he would “be a fool” to turn down the halftime show if offered. Others on the lineup include; Post Malone, Reba McEntire, Andra Day, and Tiësto.

The halftime show has evolved from a simple musical interlude to a full-blown production featuring some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry.

In recent years, we have witnessed iconic performances by artistes such as Beyoncé, Lady Gaga and Justin Timberlake, who have left audiences in awe with their electrifying stage presence and mesmerising choreography.

In addition to the musical aspect of the performance, visual effects and stage design play an integral role in creating a truly immersive experience for both those attending the event live and those watching from home. 

While appearing on the grand stage is a major milestone in anyone’s musical career, performers get paid next to nothing.

“There is not an appearance fee,” NFL Vice President of Communications Brian McCarthy is quoted by ThePioneerWoman.com. “But the artistes are paid union scale.” 

So what makes the platform such a big deal? The Super Bowl is not just a game; it is a cultural phenomenon. With an estimated audience of over 100 million viewers, performing at the halftime show provides unparalleled exposure for artistes.

This massive platform allows them to showcase their talent to a global audience and potentially reach new fans who may have never heard their music before. Following a successful Super Bowl halftime performance, artistes often experience a significant boost in sales and streaming numbers.

The exposure gained from such a high-profile event can lead to increased album sales, downloads, and streams on various platforms. This surge in popularity not only generates revenue but also solidifies an artiste’s position within the industry.

The show has become synonymous with surprise collaborations between artistes. These unexpected duets or group performances create buzz among fans and generate excitement, leading up to the event.

For emerging artistes or those looking to reinvent themselves, sharing the stage with established superstars during this iconic performance can be career-defining.

Additionally, the show attracts not only music enthusiasts but also corporate sponsors looking to capitalise on the event’s massive viewership.

Artistes who perform at the halftime show often secure lucrative brand endorsements and sponsorships, further boosting their income potential. These partnerships can extend beyond the Super Bowl season, providing long-term financial benefits for artistes.