From Complex · · 2m
Jay-Z Super Bowl Halftime Show: 8 Takeaways
Jay-Z headlines Super Bowl LXI, sparking debate over hip-hop's legacy and Gen Z's reception.
In brief
Jay-Z headlines Super Bowl LXI, sparking debate over hip-hop's legacy and Gen Z's reception. Jay-Z will headline Super Bowl LXI, with predictions for his setlist and guest appearances. Originally reported by Complex.
Jay-Z books Super Bowl LXI halftime show
Jay-Z, who helped select past seven halftime performers, is confirmed for Super Bowl LXI on Feb 14, 2027.
Roc Nation era picks hip-hop as safe legacy choice
Since 2019, Roc Nation has chosen diverse acts, with Jay-Z now headlining after years of avoiding self-booking.
Thin field makes Jay-Z the obvious choice
Jay-Z’s deep catalog and current visibility, including his 30th-anniversary stadium run, make him the easiest pick.
New album expected before or after Super Bowl
Jay-Z may drop new music right before or after Super Bowl LXI, but it won’t feature heavily in the halftime show.
Hip-hop becomes safe legacy choice
Jay-Z’s booking signals hip-hop’s return to the Super Bowl as a safe, legacy-focused act after rap’s decline in pop culture.
Jay-Z may be last rap headliner for years
Rappers like Lil Wayne and Travis Scott are unlikely to headline again, making Jay-Z the final rap headliner for a while.
Gen Z and millennial reverence differs
Jay-Z is seen as more of a millennial GOAT than a Gen Z favorite, with younger fans less receptive to his music.
Kanye West impossible guest
Kanye West is the only guest that could be earth-shattering but won’t happen due to past conflicts with Jay-Z and antisemitism comments.
Jay-Z carries halftime storytelling tradition
Jay-Z must create a narrative for his setlist, similar to past performers like Kendrick Lamar and Bad Bunny.
Setlist predictions for Super Bowl LXI
Jay-Z’s setlist includes hits like '99 Problems,' 'Niggas in Paris,' and 'Empire State of Mind,' with Beyoncé appearing for 'Crazy in Love.'
Jay-Z’s Super Bowl LXI setlist
Jay-Z’s 16-song setlist features medleys of his hits, including 'Dynasty Intro,' 'Can’t Knock the Hustle,' and 'Empire State of Mind.'
The short version
Jay-Z will headline Super Bowl LXI, with predictions for his setlist and guest appearances.
