Despite the numerous accomplishments of JAY-Z, it appears that performing at the Super Bowl halftime show has not been on his agenda. The 54-year-old rap icon, who was appointed the NFL’s live music entertainment strategist in 2019, discussed in a recent red carpet interview with Entertainment Tonight why he has refrained from taking on the coveted headlining set.
JAY-Z explained that his role in producing the halftime performance, alongside his record label Roc Nation, has led him to prioritize the opportunity for other artists. He responded with a smile, stating, “I thought it would be selfish to pick myself too early,” during the premiere of The Book of Clarence on Friday.
While the hip-hop legend has hesitated in the past, he admitted that the idea of playing the iconic show has crossed his mind. “Maybe one year. Maybe,” added the Grammy winner.
Looking forward to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas on Feb. 11, JAY-Z expressed anticipation for Usher’s performance. The Roc Nation founder remarked, “I think that he’s going to take his rightful place. He’s one of the greatest performers we’ve seen in our time, and I think he’ll take his rightful place.”
Despite not performing at this year’s Super Bowl, JAY-Z recently received an Emmy award for outstanding directing for a variety special for co-directing Rihanna’s Super Bowl halftime show at the 2023 Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards.
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Usher was announced as the headliner for the Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show in September 2023, marking Roc Nation’s fifth consecutive year of involvement in the halftime show. In a statement, JAY-Z praised Usher as the “ultimate artist and showman” and celebrated his unique journey in the music industry.
Reflecting on the moment he learned about securing the halftime show gig, Usher shared his excitement and how JAY-Z, his “big homie,” played a pivotal role in the decision. As the 2024 Super Bowl approaches, Roc Nation continues its involvement with the halftime show, and Usher is eager to deliver a performance that stands out in his career.