Every year, the Super Bowl’s pregame spectacle sets the tone not just for the game, but for a moment of shared national reflection and pride. Over the decades, artists from across genres—pop divas, country icons, and soulful vocalists—have approached The Star-Spangled Banner with unique interpretations that elevate it beyond routine performance into something moving and memorable.
Chris Stapleton — Super Bowl LVII (2023)
Chris Stapleton stripped the anthem down with a blues-influenced vocal and electric guitar accompaniment. His raw, emotional delivery resonated strongly with viewers, earning widespread praise. The performance stood out for its sincerity and restraint rather than grandeur.
Cher — Super Bowl XXXIII (1999)
Cher’s anthem performance stood out for its dramatic presentation and commanding vocal tone. Accompanied by American Sign Language performers, the moment blended visual storytelling with musical power. The result was a theatrical yet respectful rendition that left a strong visual and auditory impression.
Renée Fleming — Super Bowl XLVIII (2014)
Renée Fleming made history as the first opera singer to perform the Super Bowl anthem. Her classical training brought precision and elegance to the song, without alienating a mainstream audience. The performance broadened expectations for who—and what styles—could succeed on the Super Bowl stage.
Faith Hill — Super Bowl XXXIV (2000)
Faith Hill brought a polished, confident sound to the anthem at the turn of the millennium. Her clear vocals paired well with the ceremonial pageantry surrounding the performance. It was a straightforward but effective rendition that emphasized tradition and precision.
Marlee Matlin — Multiple Super Bowls (1993, 2007, 2016)
Marlee Matlin’s American Sign Language interpretations added a powerful visual dimension to the anthem. Her expressive movements emphasized inclusion and accessibility on one of television’s largest stages. Over multiple Super Bowls, her presence helped redefine how audiences experience the anthem.
Backstreet Boys — Super Bowl XXXV (2001)
The Backstreet Boys offered a rare group interpretation, relying on tight harmonies rather than vocal solos. Their performance highlighted blend and balance, setting it apart from the usual powerhouse-soloist format. It remains one of the most recognizable ensemble anthem performances at the Super Bowl.
Jazmine Sullivan & Eric Church — Super Bowl LV (2021)
This duet paired two distinct genres, blending R&B and country into a unified performance. Jazmine Sullivan’s vocal runs complemented Eric Church’s steady delivery, creating contrast without conflict. The result felt modern, collaborative, and widely accessible.
Dixie Chicks — Super Bowl XXXVII (2003)
With crisp harmonies and country instrumentation, the Dixie Chicks delivered a clean, confident rendition. Their performance emphasized musical unity and technical accuracy. It is often remembered for its understated strength and seamless vocal blend.
Mickey Guyton — Super Bowl LVI (2022)
Mickey Guyton’s performance was notable both musically and culturally. Supported by a choir, her strong vocal delivery conveyed confidence and emotional clarity. The moment marked an important step in expanding representation within Super Bowl anthem history.
Luther Vandross — Super Bowl XXXI (1997)
Luther Vandross delivered a smooth, soulful version that leaned into warmth rather than spectacle. His phrasing and vocal control gave the anthem a reflective, intimate quality despite the massive stage. It remains one of the most stylistically distinctive interpretations in Super Bowl history.
Honorable Mention
Charlie Puth — Super Bowl LX (2026)
Charlie Puth’s 2026 rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner at Super Bowl LX blended technical precision with heartfelt sensitivity, earning admiration from fans and critics alike. Accompanied by a small orchestra and choir, his piano-driven performance hit emotional notes that resonated deeply with viewers across the broadcast. While some commentators noted its polished restraint, many praised how his tender delivery set a reflective and unifying tone for the game’s kickoff.
Conclusion
Looking back at these unforgettable Super Bowl National Anthem moments, one thing becomes clear: the power of the performance doesn’t just lie in technical prowess, but in its ability to capture the spirit of the moment and connect with millions watching at home. Whether through soaring vocal runs, heartfelt simplicity, or genre-blending creativity, these artists have turned a pregame tradition into a cultural highlight. As the Super Bowl continues to evolve, the anthem remains a stage where artistry meets patriotism in ways that linger long after the final note.
