As we continue (Read Part 1 here) our list we go back a few decades to a great performance only to jump back a few years ago with another incredible performance or as this list would suggest a very memorable Super bowl halftime show.
Michael Jackson
When and where? 1993 Superbowl XXVII, Pasadena, California
Why it was memorable? For better or worse, Jackson ushered the era of bringing artists with a global impact to the year’s biggest television event, and he was at the height of his powers at the time, just before the sex scandals with minors ruined his legacy.
The best? A solid start, remaining motionless for 90 seconds (as Thurman Thomas on the first offensive series) and performing “Jam”, “Billie Jean” and “Black or White”. Michael Jackson live in the spotlight was an unstoppable force.
Worst? He chose to close with “We Are The World” and “Heal The World” … what? NFL fans do not want cheesy ditties where an androgynous puppet poses in messianic attitudes around children. We REQUIRE ADRENALINE. At least we would have reveled in something with more punch, such as “Beat It”, “Bad” or “Smooth criminal”.
Bruno Mars and Red Hot Chili Peppers
When and where? 2014 Superbowl XLVIII, East Rutherford, New Jersey
Why it was memorable? Bruno Mars is not an improvised armed pop-based auto-tuner and good wishes. He is a first-rate musician, plays amazing drums and has formed one of the most impressive bands with arrangements worthy of James Brown best times. Great moves their songs are sound and their live performances are never boring. Now if Bruno flatly was not for you… have some Peppers.
The best? “Locked Out of Heaven” was a trip, as with the jumping sticking with “Give It Away”. No exaggeration to say that artists halftime burned more calories than the anemic offense from Broncos in that game.
Worst? Again with a weak closing ballad, “Just The Way You Are”. If only you and Ronson had released “Uptown Funk” that year, Mars.
To conclude our list we have the top three performances from some excellent artists, memorable for their musical talents their entertainment guile or simply their entire show.
Prince
When and where? 2007 Superbowl XLI, Miami, Florida
Why it was memorable? After the previous two examples, we are definitely on a row with stunning performances over musical tastes? we do not have arguments to dismiss Prince as a first-rate show. And his interpretation of “Purple Rain” in the downpour seemed commanded by the gods themselves.
The best? It had been a few years since Janet Jackson Nipple-gate, what did Prince do? Nailing a guitar solo on a backlit screen, rubbing the arm of the lira as if groping it.
Worst? The covers are appreciated, but they were excessive. You have a great repertoire, share it without fear.
U2
When and where? 2004, Super Bowl XXXVI, New Orleans, Louisiana
Why it was memorable? Before it was fashionable ranting about them, U2 were the biggest band on the planet, with good fame. Yes, Bono has always been slick and The Edge is a “delay” with legs as far as performance is concerned, but they have been one of the best live acts. And the emotional charge that they managed to generate in a game where everyone was waiting for a sequel to the 9/11 attacks was significant.
The best? “Where The Streets Have No Name” is made for stages to rumble while people jump as crazy puppets, that’s undeniable.
Worst? Three. Sad. Songs. And one of them was “MLK”, which is not exactly the most on for the occasion. Although it would have been funny if they played “Sunday, Bloody Sunday”.
Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band
When and where? 2009 Superbowl XLIII, Tampa, Florida
Why it was memorable? The guy does not have an “OFF” switch. This whole show was perfect. All. The presentation with players from Steelers and Cardinals, the imposing presence of Clarence Clemons on sax (I think that apart had 3.5 sacks and 6 solo tackles)
The best? Impossible to choose a single moment, so they are threefold: the Referee penalty for delay of game, the tremendous gospel choir on “Working on a Dream” and Bruce’s groin to the camera at the end of “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out” .
Worst? The NFL did not do the right thing by appointing Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band as a permanent halftime show for the rest of the Superbowls.
