This year’s Super Bowl was as much a music event as it was a football game. From opening festivities to the halftime show, the lineup of performers offered something for almost every taste. At the heart of the entertainment was Bad Bunny in his dynamic halftime performance with surprise guest Lady Gaga. Additionally, with punk rock legends Green Day energizing fans before the event even began and Charlie Puth kicking off the game by singing the National Anthem, it was truly a night to remember.
Before the coin toss, Green Day took to the field for a lively pre-game performance in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Super Bowl. The band’s punk rock music energized fans and added a variety to the day’s festivities, opening their set with the famous 1997 “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” and closing with a medley featuring hits such as “American Idiot.” During their performance, the crowd’s energy was absolutely unmatched. People were singing along, dancing, and waving their foam fingers in the air while the 90s punk filled the stadium. Their performance was an excellent start to the night, riling up the crowd and getting fans excited for the game.
After Green Day’s performance, singer-songwriter Charlie Puth entered the field to perform the National Anthem with a piano accompaniment. Known for his pop hits and astonishing vocal range, Charlie Puth brought a soulful performance to the field. Puth truly took a personal spin on the established tradition as he played piano and sang. His performance not only beautifully carried the time honored tradition, but also highlighted the significance of music uniting viewers across the country.
At the end of the second quarter when the Seattle Seahawks were leading the New England Patriots 9-0, Bad Bunny took the stage. The Puerto Rican artist known for his reggaeton and Latin trap music, delivered a show full of vibrant energy and cultural celebration. He showed incredible admiration for his culture through various symbols such as the Puerto Rican flag and traditional movement styles woven into his choreography. During his performance, he was able to highlight important themes of connection and positivity, something that is very important to be reminded of in today’s world. Indian Hills Junior Madelyn Portsmore emphasizes Bad Bunny’s messages, “I thought the halftime show this year was really good–it was well choreographed and Bad Bunny’s performance was great. His message that the only thing more powerful than hate is love is something the US really needs to hear now.” With his incredible energy and positive messages, he completely captivated the audience from start to finish.
Midway through the set, Bad Bunny delighted the audience by welcoming pop icon Lady Gaga to the stage. She performed a Latin style of her famous 2025 song, “Die With a Smile.” During her performance, she celebrated two very different music styles in an exciting way. Gaga expressed deep admiration for the opportunity and called it an “absolute honor” stating that she “wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Gaga’s presence was both an incredible moment for her and an important moment in musical history. With her performance, she built a seamless musical bridge between pop and Latin rhythms.
This year’s Super Bowl entertainment was truly a celebration of music across all genres. The diversity and energy radiating from the field was unmatched, and I felt it was one of the most powerful Super Bowl music lineups yet. Indian Hills junior Alexander Noerr agrees, “NOW! I am not a man who is known to engage much with pop music, but even I felt the good vibes coming from that screen!” From Green Day’s punk rock fueled pre-game set keeping vibes and spirit high, to Charlie Puth’s beautiful anthem, and the unforgettable halftime collaboration between Bad Bunny and Lady Gaga, the energy of the night was exceptional. The combination of powerful performances and student enthusiasm shows how music continues to elevate major cultural moments, bringing people together through a mix of tradition, innovation, and pride.