Who Should Perform ‘America the Beautiful’ at the 2026 Super Bowl? Vote!

Skip to main content From the national anthem to the halftime show, the Super Bowl – held this year in San Francisco 49ers’ home stadium in California – always features several musical performances. Bad Bunny will take the field as this year’s headliner at the half, but no performers have been announced for the national anthem (vote here for who you think should sing “The Star Spangled Banner) or “America the Beautiful,” yet. Penned by poet Katharine Lee Bates and composer Samuel A. Ward, “America the Beautiful” has become a staple during the big game’s warm up. First sung by Charley Pride in 1972, then again by Vicki Carr in 1977, it started a steady run in the 2000s – first with Ray Charles in 2001, Mary J Blige, Marc Anthony and the Boston Pops Orchestra in 2002, then in 2005 with Alicia Keys. Since 2009 (Faith Hill), the song is traditionally played prior to “The Star Spangled Banner” before the players take the field. Artist like Queen Latifah, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Leslie Odom Jr., H.E.R., and Post Malone have all appeared over the years for their own “Beautiful” renditions. But who will it be in 2026? We have a few thoughts. From sombr to Alex Warren, Mariah the Scientist, Addison Rae, Kehlani, Shaboozey, Teddy Swims and more, there are plenty of options for this prime placement during the pre-game festivities. Super Bowl LX will occur on Feb. 8, 2026 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, CA. Vote in the poll and read below for why each artist should get their chance at “America the Beautiful.” Take Our Poll Imagine the track in the angst of “back to being friends”? Yes, please. Alex Warren He wouldn’t give any old “Ordinary” performance. Benson Boone “America the Beautiful” might not be the best place for a backflip, but hey, who knows? Mariah the Scientist It’s not a crime to want the soul singer to show off at the game. Addison Rae Times like these call for the burgeoning pop star. Gracie Abrams It’s so true that we want to see the melancholy singer-songwriter close to the field. There’s no denying that the “Anxiety” rapper would bring the energy. The big game hasn’t seen a trio of sister since the Schuylers (Hamilton’s Phillipa Soo, Renée Elise Goldsberry and Jasmine Cephas Jones) performed in 2017. Hilary Duff Making her much-awaited return to music with “Mature,” Duff’s appearance would add a bit of nostalgia to the broadcast for the millennials watching. No doubt the “Folded” singer’s silky smooth voice is a great fit. Teddy Swims Swims’ soulful vocals deserve a shot at the podium. His blend of country, hip hop and rock could shake the stadium up. Even if his beloved Philadelphia Eagles don’t make the Super Bowl, the folksy baritone is an excellent option (especially since it’s not in Kansas City). It would be good news to hear Shaboozey in front of the mic. Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox Want to know what everyone in the music business is talking about? Get in the know on Visit Billboard Pro for music business news Billboard is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2025 Billboard Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP optional screen reader Manage Account Billboard Hot 100™ Billboard 200™ Hits Of The World™ Songs Of The Summer Year-End Charts Decade-End Charts R&B/Hip-Hop Business News Record Labels View All Pro Songwriters & Producers Artist Index Royalty Calculator Market Watch Industry Events Calendar Billboard Español Cultura y Entretenimiento Crossword Puzzle GET ACCESS TODAY