News | February 14, 2024

Rating the half time show

_{Photo: Andrew Mather/Kansas City Chiefs via AP}

The Big Game is over, which means most people are critiquing the on field performance and even the commercials. G7’s Danielle Kates joined other industry experts by sharing her take on the Halftime Show with BizBash here.

Letter Grade: B+

Fresh off the heels of an album release, tour announcement, and 100 sold-out residency shows, Usher’s performance was nothing short of energetic and star-studded. His opening song, “Caught Up,” featured Vegas showgirls and Cirque performers, which was a fitting way to kick off the first-ever Super Bowl halftime show in Sin City.

Usher’s guests were undeniably impressive and gave a fun dynamic to the performance. Alicia Keys emerged in a stunning red outfit; H.E.R. shredded on guitar; and Lil Jon, Ludacris, Jermaine Dupri, and will.i.am also made appearances. However, given that Usher had to squeeze a 30-year career into 13 minutes, I thought the multitude of guests somewhat detracted from his individual spotlight. I would have loved to see a more focused approach, with one or two fewer guests and a couple more classic Usher hits.

Overall, the show’s energy was high, but occasionally felt a bit chaotic. There were moments where it was difficult to hear Usher’s voice, and I’m not sure if that was a mixing issue or him catching his breath. Nonetheless, his outfits were on point, his dance moves were slick, and bringing the roller-skate routine to the stage was an impressive spectacle.