13 musicians we'd love to see perform the Super Bowl halftime show

The Super Bowl halftime show continues to be one of the most prominent live music events globally, often attracting more viewers than the game itself. For 2027, the NFL and the NFL's entertainment partners have settled on Jay-Z as the headlining performer at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. This announcement is especially significant as it marks a milestone in Jay-Z’s three-decade-long career, tracing back to his debut album, "Reasonable Doubt," and including landmark projects such as "The Blueprint."

Jay-Z’s selection underscores the halftime show’s role as a platform not only for current superstars but also for artists with enduring cultural influence. Given Jay-Z’s stature and his extensive catalog, the event is poised to be a major musical highlight. Fans are also speculating about a potential onstage appearance by his wife, Beyoncé, which would add a dynamic element to the performance.

While Jay-Z’s place for 2027 is set, the conversation about future headliners is already underway. Among the artists discussed by businessinsider.com as worthy of the halftime spotlight are a mix of established legends and rising stars across genres.

Taylor Swift emerges as a natural candidate. Renowned for her ability to stage elaborate, genre-spanning performances, Swift’s recent Eras Tour demonstrated her capacity to engage diverse audiences. She has also gained full ownership of her music catalog, providing a wealth of material for a show of this magnitude. However, her personal connection to the NFL through her husband, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, suggests she might delay a Super Bowl performance until his career winds down.

The NFL’s affinity for classic rock could open the door for Queen, fronted by Adam Lambert. Though the band has never performed at the Super Bowl, Lambert’s collaboration with Queen in recent years has been met with acclaim. Their anthemic rock sound aligns well with the event’s history of memorable rock performances.

Other established performers noted for their live showmanship include Pink and Britney Spears. Pink’s blend of powerful vocals and aerial choreography, demonstrated at events like the Grammys, makes her a compelling choice. Spears, who has recently gained freedom from a restrictive conservatorship, remains an iconic figure with a legacy of show-stopping performances, including the unforgettable moment involving a python.

Justin Bieber’s continued success and diverse collaborations position him as an appealing halftime candidate. His expansive repertoire includes solo hits as well as collaborations with artists from Luis Fonsi to Billie Eilish, which could translate into a dynamic and varied performance.

Miley Cyrus represents another intriguing option, combining pop and rock elements with a flair for provocative and visually arresting shows. Her recent return to rock music and high-profile stage moments suggest she could deliver a halftime show with both energy and spectacle.

The legacy of Janet Jackson, though marked by the infamous 2004 halftime incident, remains significant. She is widely respected as a skilled vocalist and dancer, and any future performance would be seen within the context of her enduring influence on pop and R&B.

Hip-hop and rap have increasingly gained recognition for their cultural impact at the Super Bowl. Outkast, featuring Big Boi and André 3000, is highlighted for their groundbreaking contributions to the genre. A reunion on the Super Bowl stage would not only celebrate their influential catalog but also affirm hip-hop’s place in this major American tradition.

Emerging artists like Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodrigo represent the next generation of talent poised for such a platform. Eilish’s record of early achievements, including multiple Grammy wins and a historic Coachella headline, underscores her potential as a future halftime headliner. Rodrigo’s recent success with her third album and her rock-inflected style signal her as a rising star capable of delivering anthems suited for large stadium audiences.

Finally, Harry Styles combines a broad pop appeal with proven stadium-filling power. Known for his engaging live performances and a significant solo catalog, Styles also brings the possibility of a One Direction reunion, an idea that excites fans and would add a nostalgic element to the halftime spectacle.

As the Super Bowl halftime show continues to evolve, its lineup remains a barometer of musical trends and cultural moments. Jay-Z’s confirmed role for 2027 sets a high bar, while the array of artists discussed for future years reflects a diverse and dynamic musical landscape. Details about these potential performances remain limited, but the anticipation for the next iconic halftime moment is already building.