NFL Announces Jay-Z for February Halftime Show

Jay-Z will take the stage at the Super Bowl halftime show next February. The NFL confirmed the announcement on Monday, marking the first time the rapper has performed at the championship game.

The game, known as Super Bowl LXI, is scheduled for February 14 near Los Angeles. Jay-Z’s company, Roc Nation, has produced the halftime show since 2019. While the company selects the performers, the mogul has not previously played the role himself. The NFL did not specify if he would be the sole headliner.

The news follows two concerts Jay-Z played last weekend at the Los Angeles stadium that will host the game. Those shows were part of a tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of his debut album, Reasonable Doubt. Jay-Z, whose birth name is Shawn Carter, reflected on the milestone in a statement. "From 'Reasonable Doubt' to standing on the Super Bowl halftime stage, this has been a journey," he said. "Thirty years of music, work, and culture on the world's biggest stage. This run continues to be a dream come true."

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed enthusiasm for the booking. He stated he could not be more excited for fans to experience Jay-Z’s artistry and cultural impact. Goodell recalled an agreement made with Roc Nation years ago. "When we first reached an agreement with Roc Nation to produce the show, I had just one request: that Jay-Z take the stage himself one day, whenever the moment felt right to him," Goodell said.

The NFL also invited fans to speculate on potential guest stars. "Anticipation as to who Jay-Z might have guest star at halftime for the big game will now kick off," the league said. "Of course, his wife, Beyoncé, will be atop the list."