Introduction
Super Bowl 2024 Halftime Show Review: Hey, what’s up? It’s Astra, and hanging out with me today we’ve got Chuck Arnold, the senior entertainment writer from the New York Post. Because we just had Super Bowl 2024, we need to talk about specifically the halftime show.
Usher’s Performance (Halftime Show)
Let’s do it. Can we just get into this? Usher killed it in my opinion.
Analysis of Usher’s Performance
Yeah, I mean, I agree. I don’t know what more one can expect from someone as a Super Bowl Halftime performer, right? I mean, he had the vocals, the dancing, I mean, this crazy fancy footwork that he’s always known for, and the hits. There was just a combination of all three things you want from a Super Bowl Halftime performer, plus he had great special guests, which I thought was missing last year from Rihanna’s set.
Special Guests: Alicia Keys
As much as I loved her, I thought she could have used one or two special guests. I mean, she had that one special guest, she did. She had that one that she surprised, baby in the belly, yes, yes, yes. But yeah, with Usher, so first, I was super excited that he brought out Alicia Keys.
Reflection on Alicia Keys’ Appearance
Yeah, yeah, she looked stunning. Stunning. I thought that was, I mean, I think some rumors were going to happen. She had been spotted out in Las Vegas, and it made sense, right? You want someone who has collaborated on one of your big hits. “My Boo” was one of his many number-one hits which you still hear on the radio today, exactly.
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Additional Special Guests: Surprise Appearances
And also, like, you kind of like to have, if you’re a male performer, I think you like to have a female performer to play off of at some point. You know, there’s already a lot of testosterone with the football, so you want to have a little bit of that.
Discussion of Song Choice and Performance Execution
What’s so funny, I almost felt like she was channeling Rihanna a little bit by wearing the all-red. I mean, she looked great, she looked beautiful. And you know, I mean, it was a song that I think a lot of people have a lot of nostalgia attached to.
Transition to Other Special Guests
So it was just a great moment to see those two together, and even when he did, she did a little of “If I Ain’t Got You,” which is her song, right? And then it was so nice when he came in for a little harmony on that at the end. I thought that was pretty dope.
Surprise Guest Appearances: Jermaine Dupri
Germaine Dupri popped out, like, wasn’t expecting that at all.
Analysis of Jermaine Dupri’s Appearance
Yeah, I mean, I think to me that was almost like a family reunion moment because Jermaine D was one of Usher’s early very early producers, so he’s like family. So that was just nice to have him be a little part of it.
Discussion on Usher’s Performance Choices
And I’m glad he dropped “Confessions,” yes, yes. You know what was so, I was almost afraid he wasn’t going to do any slow songs because I’m like it’s going to bring down the tempo, it’s going to bring down the hype that we need for the halftime show.
Reflection on Song Choices and Execution
But you know what, I had a little something to say about that in my review because it was 20 years ago that Janet Jackson had her nipple flash, uh-huh, whether it was planned or not, that’s what happened.
Commentary on Nu*ity and Performance Standards
So I thought, you know, it men have taken off their shirts, I think Adam Levine did it, Super Bowl, Usher did it last night, so it was just kind of like a double standard to a certain extent if you want to look at it that way because obviously, she took a lot of heat, her career and everything from that.
Discussion on Usher’s Performance Style
Well, you know what, I had a little something to say about that in my review because it was 20 years ago that Janet Jackson had her nipple flash, uh-huh, whether it was planned or not, that’s what happened.
Speculation on Usher’s Personal Life
I mean, I can’t say that he pulled me aside and was like, “Yo bro, this is what happened.” No, but he did, he did talk about coming home and what that title meant, you know, his new album.
Conclusion (Halftime Show)
And of course, up next for Usher, of course, his tour that he’s going to be going on, we definitely can’t wait to see him when he hits the road.
Final Thoughts
Well, I mean, that’s the thing, like, you know, in the past, um, the Super Bowl halftime show, it’s almost like a big long, “Come on our show for your tour.” And now everybody wants to, like, Beyoncé, like, and “Formation,” and then, like, the tour, and that it’s right after, like, before. So similarly, Usher will be heading out on the road, um, later this year, and it, of course, makes people more hyped to see him.
Additional Content Expansion
The Super Bowl halftime show is an iconic moment in pop culture. It’s not surprising that Usher’s performance drew significant praise and discussion. He effortlessly blends tunes from his huge catalog. He also adds electrifying dance skills and surprising guest appearances. This shows why he’s still a music industry powerhouse.
Throughout his career, Usher has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance artistry. His Super Bowl halftime show was no exception. Usher captivated audiences worldwide with his captivating stage presence and undeniable charisma. He reaffirmed his status as a legendary entertainer.
Usher’s halftime show was a musical spectacle. It also sparked conversations about broader social issues. These issues include gender norms and performance standards. The inclusion of shirtless moments prompted reflections. People considered the disparity in how male and female artists are scrutinized for their onstage attire. It highlighted ongoing discussions about gender equality in the entertainment industry.
Furthermore, Usher’s revelations added depth to the halftime show narrative. He spoke about finding solace and contentment in his personal life. They showcased the artist’s journey towards self-discovery and fulfillment. Usher shared insights into his album’s themes of “coming home.” He invited listeners to explore themes of nostalgia, growth, and emotional resilience.
Usher’s upcoming tour promises to further elevate his legacy. It will give fans a chance to experience his dynamic live performances. Anticipation builds for his tour dates. Fans can reflect on the unforgettable moments from his Super Bowl halftime show. They celebrate Usher’s enduring impact on music and culture.
In conclusion, Usher’s Super Bowl halftime show was a tour de force. It featured musical artistry, visual spectacle, and cultural significance. From his electrifying performances to his thought-provoking