NFL

Jay-Z Named as Headline Performer for Super Bowl LXI Halftime Show

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 27, 2026, 08:12 IST

The NFL and Roc Nation have confirmed that Jay-Z will headline the Super Bowl LXI halftime show on February 14 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, marking a major shift in his involvement with the event.

Jay-Z Named as Headline Performer for Super Bowl LXI Halftime Show

In a significant development for the NFL's premier entertainment showcase, Jay-Z has been confirmed as the headline performer for the Super Bowl LXI halftime show. The announcement, made jointly by the NFL, Apple Music, and Roc Nation, confirms that the iconic rapper will take the stage on February 14 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

The decision marks a notable reversal for the artist, who has served as a key advisor for the league's entertainment presentations since 2019. When his partnership with the NFL was first established, Jay-Z famously stated that he would not consider performing at the event. Seven years later, he is set to headline the show at the same venue where he recently concluded his "Jay-Z 30" concert series.

A Career of Musical and Cultural Impact

Born Shawn Carter, the artist brings an extensive catalog of hits to the Super Bowl stage, including "Empire State of Mind," "99 Problems," and "Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)." His influence spans decades, with seminal albums such as "Reasonable Doubt," "The Blueprint," and "The Black Album" cementing his status in music history. With 25 Grammy Awards and 89 nominations, he remains one of the most decorated artists in the industry, second only to his wife, Beyoncé, who has herself headlined two Super Bowl halftime shows.

Beyond his performance career, Jay-Z has become a dominant force in entertainment and business. As the founder of Roc Nation, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the NFL's recent halftime productions. His contributions to the industry have been widely recognized, including his 2017 induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame—making him the first rapper to receive the honor—and his 2021 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Building on a Legacy of High-Viewership Performances

The Super Bowl halftime show remains one of the most-watched television events globally. Last year’s performance by Bad Bunny drew an average of 128.2 million viewers, ranking among the most-watched shows in the event's history. These performances consistently drive significant engagement across streaming platforms and music discovery services in the immediate aftermath of the broadcast.

Super Bowl LXI, which will feature Jay-Z's highly anticipated set, is scheduled for broadcast on ABC and will be available for streaming on Disney+. The event returns to the Los Angeles area, providing a high-profile stage for one of the most influential figures in modern music.