Music industry executives planning the Super Bowl halftime show have placed Justin Bieber and Harry Styles at the top of their wish list for the upcoming mega-event, according to sources close to the production. Jay-Z and his company, Roc Nation, which serves as the NFL’s live music entertainment strategist, hold final authority over selecting the performer.
Casting Challenges and Artist Hesitation for the Big Game
While Bieber and Styles top the short list compiled by Roc Nation, sources indicate neither artist has been approached by the league yet. Furthermore, industry insiders suggest that even if formal offers are extended, both singers are currently unlikely to accept the gig.
Unlike many televised concert settings, the NFL does not pay Super Bowl halftime show performers a talent fee. Instead, artists traditionally accept the high-profile assignment to gain massive global exposure and capitalize on subsequent spikes in streaming revenue and ticket sales, a strategy particularly useful when releasing new music.
Timeline and Venue Details for Super Bowl LXI
Super Bowl LXI is scheduled for February 14 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Although the championship game is months away, the NFL typically announces its headline musical acts in late September, meaning a formal announcement could arrive in a matter of weeks.
Did You Know? Justin Bieber is no stranger to massive stadium audiences, having recently performed during the halftime show for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final earlier this summer.
Historical Context at SoFi Stadium
When the Super Bowl was last held at SoFi Stadium, the production leaned heavily on hip-hop royalty. That lineup featured Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Eminem, 50 Cent, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar.
As the NFL prepares to lock in its entertainment strategy for Inglewood once again, negotiations and outreach remain ongoing behind closed doors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Super Bowl halftime performers get paid?
No, the NFL does not pay the headline performer for the halftime show. Artists perform for the exposure, and subsequent boosts in music streaming and concert ticket sales.
Who decides who performs at the Super Bowl halftime show?
Jay-Z and his company, Roc Nation, act as the NFL’s live music entertainment strategist, with Jay-Z retaining final say over the selected performer.
When does the NFL usually announce the halftime show artist?
The league typically announces the headlining performer or performers in late September, several months ahead of the February kickoff.
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