Jon Batiste set the stage for Super Bowl LIX with a unique and heartfelt performance of the National Anthem at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. As the Kansas City Chiefs faced off against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Batiste brought his signature touch to “The Star-Spangled Banner,” making history by incorporating a drum sample at the end—something never done before at the Super Bowl.
A five-time Grammy winner, Batiste was the perfect choice to kick off this year’s game. Born and raised in New Orleans, he has long celebrated the city’s rich musical heritage. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight earlier this week, Batiste revealed that his performance was a tribute to his late grandfather.
“I’m thinking about my personal story, this country’s story, and how we can honor the best of us,” Batiste shared. “My grandfather was my mentor. He served in the Navy, helping to integrate it, and he was part of many historical moments. He understood what freedom means and what it means to almost lose it. This performance is for him and all the veterans in my family.”
During a press conference on Thursday, Batiste spoke about the deeper meaning behind performing the anthem. “Music can express deep truths,” he said. “Our country, our songs, and our symbols are complex, but they all matter as we continue to grow and redefine who we are.”
Batiste’s rendition of the anthem was just one of many powerful musical moments at this year’s Super Bowl. R&B star Ledisi performed “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” while Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle delivered a moving rendition of “America the Beautiful.”
Fans can also look forward to an unforgettable halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar and SZA. While Lamar remained tight-lipped about the details during a recent press conference, he hinted that storytelling would play a key role in his performance.
“I’ve always loved using storytelling in my music,” Lamar said. “Whenever I step on a stage, I want to make people listen, see, and think.”
With such a star-studded lineup and groundbreaking performances, Super Bowl LIX is shaping up to be one for the history books.
